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Close-up of juicy Pineapple BBQ Chicken, perfect for a summer barbecue.

Irresistible Pineapple BBQ Chicken

Transform ordinary chicken into a tropical barbecue masterpiece with this recipe. The combination of sweet pineapple, smoky BBQ sauce, and savory spices creates an explosion of flavor. Perfect for grilling or baking, this dish is sure to impress.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 6 oz each
  • 1/2 cup reserved pineapple juice
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce your favorite brand
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Optional: Chopped green onions for garnish
  • Optional: Sesame seeds for garnish

Equipment

  • Medium bowl
  • whisk
  • Resealable bag or shallow dish
  • Grill or baking dish
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the reserved pineapple juice, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, brown sugar, smoked paprika, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350-400°F). Alternatively, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F.
  4. Grilling Instructions: Remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding the marinade. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the chicken with additional BBQ sauce for a glossy finish.
  5. Baking Instructions: Place the marinated chicken breasts in a baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. During the last 5-10 minutes of baking, brush the chicken with additional BBQ sauce.
  6. Add the Pineapple: In the last few minutes of cooking, add the pineapple chunks to the grill or baking dish to warm through.
  7. Serve: Serve the grilled or baked chicken with the warm pineapple chunks. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.

Notes

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 4 hours. Longer marinating can make the chicken mushy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Overcooked chicken is dry and tough. For a sweeter flavor, use a sweeter BBQ sauce. For a spicier flavor, add more red pepper flakes. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.