Irresistible Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets Recipe [Easy + Delicious]

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you're a fan of tropical flavors and easy cleanup, Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets are the perfect choice for you. This recipe is an effortless way to bring the tastes of the island into your home without the hassle of a long cooking process. Whether you're grilling under the sun or baking indoors, the combination of juicy chicken, smoky BBQ sauce, and sweet pineapple wrapped in foil makes for a delicious and fun meal. You’ll love how minimal the prep work is and how quickly it all comes together. Plus, the individual foil packets make serving a breeze, whether you're hosting a family dinner or a summer BBQ.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Marinade

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup high-quality BBQ sauce

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon ground ginger

For the Foil Packets Assembly

• 1 ½ cups fresh pineapple chunks

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1 red onion, sliced into wedges

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

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

Directions

Step 1: Preparing the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and ground ginger. Mix well to combine. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and ensure they are evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Assembling the Foil Packets

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or the oven to 400°F (200°C). Tear off large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Lightly coat each sheet with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place one marinated chicken breast in the center of each foil sheet. Arrange the pineapple chunks, red bell pepper, and onion around the chicken. Drizzle the mixture with a little more olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Fold the foil over the ingredients and securely seal the packet by folding the edges a few times.

Step 3: Grilling or Baking Instructions

For best results, you can choose either grilling or baking:

• Grill: Place the foil packets directly on the grill and cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping the packets halfway through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

• Oven: Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Check that the internal chicken temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Tips for Juicy and Flavorful Chicken

• Monitor temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

• Seal packets tightly: Ensure that the packets are sealed well to lock in moisture.

• Let it rest: After cooking, let the foil packets sit for 5 minutes before opening to retain the juices.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.

• Prep time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)

• Cook time: 20-25 minutes (grilling or baking)

• Total time: 50-60 minutes

Variations

Using Different Proteins

Feel free to swap out the chicken for any of the following proteins for a fun twist:

• Shrimp: Quick to cook and perfectly complements the tropical flavors.

• Salmon: A rich and flavorful alternative that pairs wonderfully with pineapple.

Adding More Tropical Vegetables

Enhance the tropical vibe by including:

• Zucchini slices

• Sweet corn kernels

• Mango or papaya chunks

• Green beans

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets with:

• Coconut jasmine rice: Light and fluffy for a tropical side.

• Grilled corn on the cob: A perfect complement to the dish.

• Tropical fruit salad: A refreshing mix of mango, kiwi, and banana.

• Refreshing drinks: Pineapple mojitos or chilled lemonade.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers are rare, but in case you have any:

• Storage: Keep packets sealed or transfer the contents to an airtight container.

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave for 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but make sure to drain it well to prevent excess moisture in the foil packets.

Can I prepare these packets ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the foil packets and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Can I bake instead of grill?

Yes, you can bake the packets at 400°F (200°C) for a similar result.

What vegetables work best?

Bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and snap peas are excellent choices to add to your foil packets.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Make sure to thaw frozen chicken completely before marinating and cooking for the best results.

Are these packets campfire-friendly?

Yes! These packets are perfect for cooking over hot campfire coals. Just turn them occasionally for even cooking.

How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Monitor the internal temperature to ensure the chicken doesn’t overcook. Additionally, sealing the packets tightly helps retain moisture.

What if the vegetables aren't cooked through?

Cut the vegetables into smaller pieces for quicker cooking, or pre-cook denser vegetables before adding them to the foil packets.

How can I make sure the foil packets don't leak?

Double wrap the packets in foil to prevent juices from escaping. Also, make sure to fold the edges tightly.

What are some creative ways to serve leftovers?

Leftovers can be used for tropical BBQ wraps, Hawaiian pizza toppings, BBQ chicken salads, or served over rice in a delicious rice bowl.

Conclusion

Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets are an incredibly simple yet delicious dish that brings the taste of the tropics straight to your table. With minimal preparation, quick cooking, and no cleanup mess, it's the ideal meal for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Whether you choose to grill or bake, the combination of smoky chicken, juicy pineapple, and flavorful BBQ sauce will make this a recipe you return to time and time again. Enjoy your tropical feast!