Name: BBQ Pineapple Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 4 boneless (skinless chicken breasts); 1 cup barbecue sauce (choose your favorite, such as classic, smoky, or spicy); 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained if canned); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and black pepper (to taste); Fresh parsley or cilantro (chopped (optional, for garnish))

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Elevate your summer meals with this vibrant BBQ Pineapple Chicken, a perfect summer dinner that blends tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors. Juicy chicken breasts are coated in a zesty barbecue sauce and baked with tropical pineapple chunks, creating a dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. Ready in just 30 minutes, this BBQ Pineapple Chicken is ideal for weeknight dinners, backyard barbecues, or any warm-weather gathering. Follow our simple recipe to create this crowd-pleasing summer dinner that brings a taste of the tropics to your table!

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Pineapple Chicken Recipe

This BBQ Pineapple Chicken is a standout summer dinner, combining bold flavors with minimal effort. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

Quick and Easy: Ready in 30 minutes, perfect for busy summer evenings.
Tropical Flair: Sweet pineapple and smoky barbecue sauce create a refreshing, island-inspired dish.
Versatile: Pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from salads to rice, for a complete summer dinner.
Healthy and Light: Lean chicken and minimal oil make it a nutritious option for warm-weather dining.
Impressive Presentation: Vibrant pineapple and glistening sauce make it a feast for the eyes.

What Makes BBQ Pineapple Chicken Special?

The BBQ Pineapple Chicken is a delightful fusion of American barbecue and Hawaiian-inspired flavors, making it a perfect summer dinner. Tender chicken breasts are smothered in a tangy barbecue sauce infused with garlic and paprika, then baked alongside juicy pineapple chunks for a sweet-tart contrast. The result is a dish that’s bursting with flavor, visually stunning, and effortlessly easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick family meal, this BBQ Pineapple Chicken delivers tropical vibes and crowd-pleasing taste in every bite.

Ingredients for BBQ Pineapple Chicken

To prepare this flavorful BBQ Pineapple Chicken (serves 4), gather these ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup barbecue sauce (choose your favorite, such as classic, smoky, or spicy)
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained if canned)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Tips:

Chicken Breasts: Use even-sized breasts for uniform cooking; pound slightly if thick.
Barbecue Sauce: Opt for a high-quality sauce or make your own for personalized flavor.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds vibrant flavor, but canned works well in a pinch; drain to avoid excess liquid.
Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness; substitute with smoked paprika for extra depth in this summer dinner.

How to Make BBQ Pineapple Chicken

Follow these steps to create a delicious BBQ Pineapple Chicken:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix 1 cup barbecue sauce, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tsp paprika until well combined.\
Season the Chicken: Place 4 chicken breasts in a baking dish and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Coat with Sauce: Pour the barbecue sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring each breast is fully coated.
Add Pineapple: Scatter 1 cup pineapple chunks around and on top of the chicken breasts.
Drizzle with Oil: Drizzle 1 tbsp olive oil over the chicken and pineapple to enhance browning and flavor.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the sauce is bubbly.
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro (if using) and serve hot as a tropical summer dinner.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Calories: ~320 per serving
Servings: 4

Macros per Serving: 30g protein, 25g carbs, 8g fat, 2g fiber

Tips for the Perfect BBQ Pineapple Chicken

Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe eating.
Even Coating: Spoon sauce over the chicken halfway through baking for maximum flavor.
Fresh Pineapple: If using fresh pineapple, cut into small chunks for even distribution in this summer dinner.
Prevent Sticking: Line the baking dish with parchment or lightly grease to avoid sticking.
Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to retain juiciness.

Creative Variations for BBQ Pineapple Chicken

Customize this BBQ Pineapple Chicken with these delicious twists:

Spicy Kick: Use a spicy barbecue sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
Veggie Boost: Add sliced bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the baking dish for extra flavor and texture.
Citrus Zest: Squeeze fresh lime or orange juice over the chicken before serving for a zesty lift.
Grilled Option: Grill the chicken and pineapple slices over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side for a smoky summer dinner.
Sweet Heat: Mix 1 tbsp honey into the barbecue sauce for a sweeter, stickier glaze.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This BBQ Pineapple Chicken is a versatile summer dinner that shines at any occasion. Try these serving ideas:

Serve on a platter with pineapple chunks arranged for a vibrant, tropical presentation at summer barbecues.
Pair with a summer salad like mango avocado or cucumber dill for a refreshing contrast.
Accompany with coconut rice, roasted sweet potatoes, or grilled corn for a complete summer dinner.
Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a pop of color and flavor.
Offer with a chilled summer drink like pineapple mojito or iced tea to enhance the tropical theme.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or microwave until warm.
Freeze: Freeze cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Prep Ahead: Marinate the chicken in the barbecue sauce mixture up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor.
Refresh: Add a splash of barbecue sauce or pineapple juice when reheating to restore moisture.

FAQs About BBQ Pineapple Chicken

Can I make this summer dinner ahead of time?
Yes, marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce up to 24 hours ahead. Bake just before serving for the freshest BBQ Pineapple Chicken.

Can I grill this summer dinner instead of baking?
Absolutely! Grill chicken and pineapple slices over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through (165°F).

What barbecue sauce is best for this summer dinner?
Choose a sauce you love—classic, smoky, or spicy. Homemade or high-quality store-bought both work well.

Can I use chicken thighs for this summer dinner?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great; adjust baking time to 30-35 minutes to ensure they reach 165°F.

What sides pair well with this summer dinner?
Serve with coconut rice, a summer salad, roasted sweet potatoes, or grilled veggies for a balanced BBQ Pineapple Chicken meal.

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Conclusion

This BBQ Pineapple Chicken is a quick, flavorful summer dinner that brings tropical sweetness and smoky barbecue goodness to your table. Perfect for weeknight meals, backyard barbecues, or casual gatherings, it’s healthy, vibrant, and guaranteed to impress. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious taste of summer with every juicy, tangy bite!