Pineapple Barbecue Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pineapple Barbecue Chicken is the perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors. The juicy pineapple adds a refreshing tropical twist to the smoky barbecue sauce, resulting in a deliciously unique dish. It’s quick to prepare, and you can easily adjust the sweetness and spice level of the barbecue sauce to suit your preferences. Whether you’re grilling it outdoors or baking it in the oven, this recipe is versatile, family-friendly, and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)

• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

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

Directions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning.

3. If grilling, cook the chicken on the grill for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If baking, place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

4. While the chicken is cooking, heat the barbecue sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the pineapple chunks and cook for 3-5 minutes until the pineapple softens slightly.

5. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the heat and brush each piece with the pineapple barbecue sauce.

6. Serve the chicken hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20-30 minutes (depending on cooking method)

• Total Time: 30-40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add some chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the barbecue sauce for a spicy kick.

• Grilled Pineapple: Grill some pineapple slices alongside the chicken for an extra layer of smoky flavor.

• Slow Cooker: For a hands-off version, place the seasoned chicken and pineapple barbecue sauce in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.

• Chicken Thighs: Use bone-in or boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer, juicier result.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a little bit of water or extra barbecue sauce to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

Can I make this recipe with bone-in chicken?

Absolutely! You can use bone-in chicken, but you will need to adjust the cooking time, as bone-in pieces take longer to cook. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving.

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, canned pineapple works perfectly for this recipe. Just be sure to drain the pineapple before using it.

How can I make the barbecue sauce sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can add honey, brown sugar, or maple syrup to the barbecue sauce.

Can I use another type of fruit instead of pineapple?

Yes, mango or peach chunks can be a great alternative to pineapple for a different tropical flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free if you use a gluten-free barbecue sauce and ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free as well.

Can I use a store-bought barbecue sauce?

Yes, you can use any store-bought barbecue sauce you like. Just choose one that matches your preferred flavor profile (sweet, smoky, or spicy).

Can I bake this chicken instead of grilling it?

Yes, baking the chicken is a great alternative. Just follow the instructions for the oven method above.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), which can be checked using a meat thermometer.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Be sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat using your preferred method.

Conclusion

Pineapple Barbecue Chicken is a delightful, tropical twist on the classic barbecue dish. With its juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and smoky barbecue sauce, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue. Easy to make, flavorful, and versatile, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re grilling or baking, you’ll enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite!