Name: Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Pineapple
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491839H51M35S
Total time: PT-491839H51M35S
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: For the chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs); 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; For the pineapple BBQ sauce: 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade); 2 tablespoons honey (optional); 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional); For garnish: Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional); 1-2 fresh pineapple rings (for grilling, optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Pineapple is the perfect balance of savory and sweet. The pineapple BBQ sauce coats the chicken in a rich, tropical glaze that caramelizes as it cooks, creating a juicy and flavorful dish. The grilled or baked chicken is tender and succulent, and the grilled pineapple adds a smoky-sweet finish. It’s a great dish for summer cookouts, family dinners, or any time you crave something fresh and full of flavor. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend get-togethers.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 tablespoons honey (optional, for added sweetness)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional, for extra flavor)
Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)
1-2 fresh pineapple rings (for grilling, optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the chicken: Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat (about 375°F or 190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Make the pineapple BBQ sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the BBQ sauce, pineapple chunks, honey (if using), soy sauce, and grated ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Use a spoon to mash the pineapple chunks into the sauce for extra texture. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
Cook the chicken:
- Grill Method: Grill the chicken on each side for 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). While grilling, brush the chicken with the pineapple BBQ sauce every 2-3 minutes to add flavor.
- Oven Method: If cooking in the oven, bake the chicken on a baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, basting with the pineapple BBQ sauce halfway through. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer; the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Grill the pineapple rings (optional): If you’re using fresh pineapple rings, grill them for 1-2 minutes per side until they’re slightly charred and caramelized. This will bring out the natural sweetness of the pineapple and add a smoky flavor.
Assemble and serve: Once the chicken is cooked, remove from heat and drizzle with the remaining pineapple BBQ sauce. Top with grilled pineapple rings and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for added color and flavor.
Serve: Serve the Pineapple BBQ Chicken with rice, grilled vegetables, or a simple green salad for a complete tropical meal.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-30 minutes (depending on grilling or baking)
Total Time: 30-40 minutes

Variations

Spicy Pineapple BBQ Chicken: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the pineapple BBQ sauce for a spicy kick.
Pineapple BBQ Chicken Skewers: Cube the chicken breasts and skewer them with chunks of pineapple. Grill or bake the skewers for a fun, bite-sized version.
Grilled Pineapple Salsa: Dice grilled pineapple and mix it with red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of chili powder for a fresh salsa to top the chicken.
Using Chicken Thighs: You can swap chicken breasts for thighs, which are juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover Pineapple BBQ Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze leftover chicken (without sauce) in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make the pineapple BBQ sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pineapple BBQ sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. This will also allow the flavors to meld together more.

2. Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use canned pineapple chunks or crushed pineapple for the sauce. Just make sure to drain and rinse the canned pineapple before using it.

3. Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes! Add a dash of hot sauce or chopped fresh jalapeños to the pineapple BBQ sauce for a spicy version of the dish. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes on the chicken before serving.

4. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.

5. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but the cooking time will be longer. You may need to cook the chicken for 35-45 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.

6. Can I grill the chicken and pineapple at the same time?

Yes, you can grill both the chicken and the pineapple simultaneously. Just make sure to monitor the chicken carefully, as the pineapple only needs 1-2 minutes per side to grill.

7. Can I make this dish in the slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the chicken in a slow cooker. Simply add the seasoned chicken to the slow cooker, cover it with the pineapple BBQ sauce, and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

8. How do I prevent the BBQ sauce from burning on the grill?

To prevent the sauce from burning, avoid direct contact with the flames while basting the chicken. It’s best to add the sauce in the last few minutes of cooking, after the chicken is nearly done.

9. Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought BBQ sauce to save time. However, I recommend adding some fresh pineapple to the sauce to enhance the tropical flavor.

10. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Then, simply grill or bake the chicken when you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Pineapple is a flavorful and tropical dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tangy BBQ sauce, sweet pineapple, and juicy chicken creates a mouthwatering experience that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or baking in the oven, this dish is easy to make and sure to become a favorite in your household. Add some grilled vegetables or a side of rice, and you’ve got a complete and satisfying meal that’s full of flavor and sunshine!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

Servings and Timing

Variations

Storage/Reheating

FAQs

1. Can I make the pineapple BBQ sauce ahead of time?

2. Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

3. Can I make this dish spicy?

4. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

5. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

6. Can I grill the chicken and pineapple at the same time?

7. Can I make this dish in the slow cooker?

8. How do I prevent the BBQ sauce from burning on the grill?

9. Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?

10. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Conclusion

Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Pineapple

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition