Hawaiian BBQ Chicken & Pineapple Foil Packets
Looking for a delicious and easy meal that will transport you to the tropical paradise of Hawaii? Look no further than these Hawaiian BBQ Chicken & Pineapple Foil Packets! Juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and tangy BBQ sauce all come together in a convenient foil packet that is perfect for throwing on the grill or in the oven. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 red onion, diced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 tablespoons chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or preheat your oven to 400°F.
- In a bowl, toss the chicken breasts with BBQ sauce until well coated.
- Cut 4 large pieces of heavy-duty foil and divide the chicken evenly between them.
- Top each chicken breast with bell pepper, onion, and pineapple. Season with salt and pepper.
- Fold the foil over the chicken and vegetables to create a packet, sealing tightly.
- Grill or bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Carefully open the foil packets and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 320
Total Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 830mg
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 24g
Protein: 36g
Popular Questions:
- Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. - Can I use a different type of meat?
You can substitute chicken with pork or shrimp for a different flavor. - Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely, fresh pineapple will add extra sweetness to the dish. - How can I make this recipe spicy?
Add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for a kick of heat. - Can I make these packets ahead of time?
You can prepare the packets ahead of time and store them in the fridge until ready to cook. - How can I prevent the packets from leaking?
Make sure to seal the foil tightly to prevent any leaks during cooking. - What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
Rice, corn on the cob, or a side salad are great options to serve alongside the packets. - Can I freeze these packets?
You can freeze the packets before cooking for a quick and easy meal later on. - How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. - Can I use a different BBQ sauce flavor?
Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauce flavors to find your favorite combination.
Helpful Tips:
- Marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce for a few hours before assembling the packets for added flavor.
- Add sliced jalapenos for an extra kick of spice.
- Top the cooked packets with a sprinkle of grated cheese for a cheesy twist.
- Serve the packets with a side of coconut rice for a complete tropical meal.
- Try grilling the packets over charcoal for a smoky flavor.
- Use a variety of colored bell peppers for a visually appealing presentation.
- Brush the foil with olive oil before assembling the packets to prevent sticking.
- Add chunks of mango or papaya for a fruity twist.
- Double the recipe to feed a larger crowd at your next gathering.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
Expert Secrets:
- Cook the packets over indirect heat on the grill for more even cooking.
- Drizzle some honey over the chicken before sealing the packets for added sweetness.
- Sprinkle some smoked paprika on top of the packets for a smoky flavor.
- Add a splash of pineapple juice to the BBQ sauce for extra tropical flair.
- Grill the pineapple chunks for a caramelized flavor before adding them to the packets.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to the proper temperature.
- Serve the packets with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a burst of citrus flavor.
- Top the cooked chicken with toasted sesame seeds for added texture.
- Add a splash of soy sauce to the BBQ sauce for a savory umami kick.
- Garnish the packets with chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor.