Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Delight

This Hawaiian BBQ chicken and pineapple foil packet recipe brings the tropical flavors of the islands right to your backyard grill. The combination of sweet pineapple, tangy BBQ sauce, and juicy chicken creates a flavor explosion that transports you straight to a Hawaiian luau without leaving home.

I first made these foil packets during a backyard gathering when I needed something impressive yet simple. My guests were amazed by how the pineapple caramelized against the chicken, creating that perfect sweet and savory balance that kept everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: form the protein base of this dish and stay incredibly juicy when cooked in the foil
• BBQ sauce: adds a smoky sweet flavor that complements the pineapple perfectly; look for one with a hint of smokiness
• Pineapple chunks: provide natural sweetness and tenderize the chicken as they cook together
• Bell peppers: add vibrant color and a slight crunch that balances the soft pineapple
• Red onion: delivers a mild bite that mellows beautifully when cooked with the other ingredients
• Fresh cilantro: brightens the entire dish with its fresh herbal notes; use it generously for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Grill:

Preheat your grill to medium high heat around 375°F to 400°F. This temperature ensures the chicken cooks thoroughly without burning the vegetables or sauce. If using a charcoal grill, build a medium fire with coals evenly distributed.

Create the Foil Packets:

Lay out four large pieces of heavy duty aluminum foil approximately 12 by 18 inches each. Center one chicken breast on each foil piece, then generously coat with BBQ sauce, making sure to cover all surfaces of the chicken for maximum flavor infusion.

Layer the Ingredients:

Distribute pineapple chunks, bell pepper slices, and red onion pieces evenly over each chicken breast. The pineapple should be placed directly on top of the chicken where its juices will seep into the meat as it cooks. Season each packet with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance all the flavors.

Seal the Packets:

Bring the long edges of the foil together above the food and fold them over twice to create a secure seal. Then fold in the shorter sides with double folds to create completely sealed packets. Leave a little space inside for heat circulation rather than wrapping the ingredients too tightly.

Grill to Perfection:

Place the sealed packets on the preheated grill and close the lid. Cook for 25 to 30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The packets trap steam, which helps cook everything evenly and infuses the chicken with incredible flavor.

My favorite part of this dish is how the pineapple caramelizes slightly during cooking, creating these amazing little pockets of intensely sweet flavor that contrast beautifully with the smoky BBQ sauce. My family now requests these packets whenever we fire up the grill in summer, and the recipe has become our go-to for casual entertaining.

Make Ahead Options

These foil packets are perfect for meal prep or camping trips. You can assemble them up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to grill. This makes them ideal for busy weeknights when you want a delicious dinner without spending time in the kitchen. Simply prepare the packets as directed, wrap tightly in plastic wrap for extra protection, and refrigerate until cooking time.

Vegetarian Adaptation

For a meatless version, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or thick portobello mushroom caps. Marinate the tofu or mushrooms in BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes before assembling the packets to infuse them with flavor. Reduce the cooking time to about 15 to 20 minutes, as vegetables and tofu cook more quickly than chicken. The pineapple and BBQ combination works beautifully with these vegetarian alternatives.

Serving Suggestions

Turn this into a complete Hawaiian themed meal by serving the packets with coconut rice. Simply replace half the water with coconut milk when cooking white rice, and add a pinch of salt. The creamy coconut flavor pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy flavors of the packets. A simple green salad with a lime vinaigrette makes a refreshing side dish that cuts through the richness of the BBQ sauce.

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Recipe FAQs

→ How do I ensure the chicken is fully cooked?

Cook the foil packets on medium-high heat for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

→ Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple works perfectly. Just cut it into small, bite-sized chunks to ensure even grilling.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to include zucchini, mushrooms, or even cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and variety.

→ Can this dish be made in the oven?

Yes, bake the foil packets in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

→ How should I serve these foil packets?

Serve the packets warm, straight from the foil, with sides like steamed rice, a fresh salad, or crusty bread.

→ Can I prepare these packets in advance?

Yes, assemble the packets a few hours ahead, store them in the refrigerator, and grill when ready to cook.