Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Pineapple: A Sweet and Tangy Tropical Delight

If you’re looking for a meal that’s both sweet and savory, Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Pineapple is the perfect dish.
Grilled or baked chicken is smothered in a tangy BBQ sauce and paired with fresh, juicy pineapple. The combination of smoky BBQ with the sweet, tropical fruit is absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or making a family meal, this dish is sure to impress.

It’s a perfect balance of flavors, easy to make, and packed with tropical goodness.

Why You’ll Love Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Pineapple

Here’s why this dish is going to become a favorite:

• Sweet and savory flavors that balance beautifully
• Easy to make and can be grilled or baked
• Perfect for summer BBQs or weeknight dinners
• Juicy, tender chicken with a smoky BBQ glaze
• Tropical twist with fresh pineapple that adds a burst of sweetness

It’s a quick and flavorful dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Pineapple

These ingredients come together to make the perfect tropical chicken dish:

For the chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite brand or homemade)
• 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or 1/2 a fresh pineapple, peeled and diced)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For serving:

• Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)
• Extra pineapple slices for grilling (optional)
• Steamed rice or quinoa (for a complete meal)
• Grilled vegetables or a side salad (optional)

Tip: If you prefer a sweeter BBQ sauce, look for a honey or pineapple-infused BBQ sauce for an even deeper tropical flavor!

How to Make Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Pineapple

This dish comes together quickly — here’s how:

1. Prepare the chicken: Start by preheating your grill to medium heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, soy sauce (optional), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill or bake the chicken:
   • Grilling: Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
   • Baking: Place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked.
3. Add the BBQ sauce: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with BBQ sauce and let it cook for another 5 minutes to allow the sauce to caramelize.
4. Prepare the pineapple: While the chicken is cooking, heat a grill pan or regular pan over medium heat. Add the pineapple chunks and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pineapple starts to caramelize and turn golden brown.
5. Assemble the dish: Once the chicken is cooked and the BBQ sauce is caramelized, top each chicken breast with a generous amount of grilled pineapple. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
6. Serve: Serve the pineapple BBQ chicken with your favorite sides, like rice, quinoa, or grilled vegetables.

Serve immediately and enjoy the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors!

Tasty Variations for Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Pineapple

Want to switch things up? Here are some fun variations:

• Add heat: Drizzle with some sriracha or add chopped jalapeños to the pineapple for a spicy kick.
• Pineapple salsa: Top the chicken with a fresh pineapple salsa made with diced red onion, cilantro, and lime juice for extra brightness.
• Grilled pineapple slices: Grill thicker slices of pineapple alongside the chicken for a charred flavor and a beautiful presentation.
• Bacon-wrapped chicken: Wrap the chicken with bacon for added smoky richness before grilling or baking.
• Vegetarian version: Use grilled tofu or tempeh in place of chicken for a plant-based version.

Endless ways to customize this dish to suit your taste!

Tips for the Best Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Pineapple

These small tips will ensure your dish turns out perfect every time:

• Use fresh pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds the best sweetness and texture. Canned pineapple may be softer and sweeter, but fresh pineapple caramelizes beautifully when grilled or sautéed.
• Watch the BBQ sauce: Don’t let the BBQ sauce burn while cooking. If grilling, apply the sauce in the last few minutes to avoid charring it.
• Rest the chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.
• Grill the pineapple: Grilling pineapple caramelizes the natural sugars, intensifying the flavor. If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan or skillet works just fine!

Little touches for a juicy, flavorful meal!

Health Benefits of Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Pineapple

This dish isn’t just delicious — it’s also packed with nutrients:

• Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which helps build and repair muscles.
• Pineapple is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and bromelain, which aids digestion.
• Olive oil adds healthy fats that support heart health.
• BBQ sauce adds flavor without the need for excessive fat or sugar (just be sure to choose a low-sugar option).
• Cilantro adds antioxidants and supports immune health.

A well-rounded, protein-packed meal that’s as healthy as it is delicious!

When to Serve Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Pineapple

This dish is perfect for many occasions:

• Summer BBQs or cookouts
• Quick weeknight dinners
• Meal prep for the week ahead
• Picnics or outdoor gatherings
• Tropical-inspired meals to brighten your day

It’s versatile enough to work for any occasion!

Fun Ways to Serve It

Want to make your meal even more exciting? Here are some ideas:

• Serve in a bowl: Layer rice or quinoa in a bowl, top with chicken, pineapple, and a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce for a complete tropical bowl.
• Taco night: Shred the chicken and serve with tortillas, grilled pineapple, and all your favorite taco toppings.
• Pineapple boats: Hollow out pineapple halves and serve the BBQ chicken inside the pineapple shell for a fun and tropical presentation.
• Serve with a slaw: Pair the chicken with a tangy cabbage slaw to balance the sweetness of the pineapple.

Fun and creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish!

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FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are more flavorful and juicy, and they’ll work perfectly with the BBQ sauce and pineapple.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the chicken and marinate it ahead of time, and grill or bake it just before serving. You can also prepare the pineapple ahead and store it in the fridge.

3. Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh pineapple caramelizes better and has a firmer texture. If using canned, make sure to drain it well.

4. How do I keep the BBQ sauce from burning?
Apply the BBQ sauce in the last few minutes of cooking to prevent it from burning, especially if grilling.

5. How do I make this dish spicier?
Add sriracha, cayenne pepper, or chopped jalapeños to the pineapple or BBQ sauce for a spicy kick.

6. How long should I cook the chicken?
Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or bake it at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

7. Can I make this recipe in the oven?
Yes! Bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, then add the BBQ sauce and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes to caramelize the sauce.

8. Can I use other fruits with the chicken?
Yes! Mango or papaya would work wonderfully with the BBQ chicken for a tropical twist.

9. Can I use a different sauce instead of BBQ?
You can use teriyaki sauce, hoisin sauce, or a simple sweet chili sauce for a different flavor profile.

10. Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use a plant-based BBQ sauce for a vegan version.