Grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of summer to your table. With its sweet and tangy pineapple barbecue sauce, this recipe is perfect for picnics, family dinners, or a casual get-together with friends. The combination of juicy chicken, fresh pineapple, and vibrant veggies creates an irresistible meal that’s both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor!
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For Garnish
- How to Make Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil
- Step 1: Prepare Your Grill
- Step 2: Assemble the Foil Packets
- Step 3: Make the Sauce
- Step 4: Grill the Packets
- Step 5: Serve
- How to Serve Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil
- On a Bed of Rice
- In Tacos
- With a Salad
- As Sandwiches
- How to Perfect Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil
- Best Side Dishes for Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil
- Reheating Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?
- What vegetables work well with Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil?
- How do I ensure my chicken is cooked properly?
- Can I prepare these foil packets ahead of time?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish requires minimal prep time and can be grilled in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The sweet and tangy pineapple barbecue sauce pairs perfectly with the chicken, adding a tropical twist to your meal.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap out the vegetables for your favorites or whatever you have on hand. This recipe is versatile!
- Perfect for Summer: Grilling in foil locks in moisture while keeping your kitchen cool—perfect for those hot days.
- Healthy Option: With lean chicken and fresh veggies, this meal is both satisfying and nutritious.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes preparing grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil simple and effective. Here are some essential items you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil
- Grill
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil: Ensures even cooking while keeping all the delicious juices inside.
- Grill: Provides that smoky flavor that makes grilled dishes so appealing.
- Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining sauces and marinades without making a mess.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 4 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
– 1 cup BBQ Sauce
– 1 (15 ounce) can Pineapple Slices (including juice)
– 2 teaspoons Soy Sauce
– 1 teaspoon Garlic
– 1 Red Bell Pepper, cut into cubes
– 2 medium Zucchini, sliced
– Green Onions (for garnish)
For Garnish
- Green Onions, chopped
How to Make Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil
Step 1: Prepare Your Grill
Heat your grill to medium heat. Cut four sheets of heavy-duty foil large enough to wrap around the chicken and veggies.
Step 2: Assemble the Foil Packets
Place one boneless skinless chicken breast in the center of each piece of aluminum foil. Divide the cubed red bell pepper, sliced zucchini, and 2-3 pineapple slices among each packet.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, juice from the can of pineapple slices, soy sauce, and garlic. Spread about two tablespoons of this mixture over each chicken breast. Make sure to reserve about 1/4 cup of the sauce for later.
Step 4: Grill the Packets
Carefully fold up each foil packet to seal it securely. Place them on the grill and cook for about 13-15 minutes. Flip each packet halfway through cooking to ensure even grilling.
Step 5: Serve
Once cooked, carefully open the packets (watching out for steam). Baste with the reserved sauce and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Enjoy your delicious grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil!
How to Serve Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil
Serving grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil is a delightful experience. The sweet and tangy flavors blend beautifully, making it an ideal dish for summer gatherings. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious meal.
On a Bed of Rice
- White Rice: Serve the chicken over fluffy white rice to soak up the extra sauce.
- Brown Rice: For a healthier option, use brown rice which adds a nutty flavor.
In Tacos
- Corn Tortillas: Use warm corn tortillas to create tasty tacos filled with chicken and veggies.
- Toppings: Add fresh cilantro, diced onions, or avocado for extra flavor.
With a Salad
- Mixed Greens: Serve the chicken on a bed of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette dressing.
- Fruit Salad: Pair it with a refreshing fruit salad that complements the barbecue flavors.
As Sandwiches
- Buns: Use soft hamburger buns to make delicious sandwiches filled with shredded chicken and veggies.
- Slaw: Add coleslaw for crunch and added texture.
How to Perfect Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil
For the best results when making grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil, consider these helpful tips.
- Bold Marinade: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before grilling to enhance flavor.
- Bold Foil Pack Technique: Make sure to seal the foil packs tightly to retain steam and moisture while cooking.
- Bold Cooking Temperature: Maintain medium heat on your grill for even cooking without burning.
- Bold Vegetable Choices: Feel free to mix in other summer vegetables like bell peppers or corn for variety.
- Bold Resting Period: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling; this keeps it juicy.
- Bold Sauce Options: Experiment with different BBQ sauces or add hot sauce for an extra kick.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil
To complement your grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil, serve it with these delicious side dishes. Each option enhances the meal’s tropical flavors perfectly.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky, perfect for summer barbecues.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds texture and balances out the sweetness of the chicken.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad pairs well with the tangy BBQ sauce.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and herbs provides a healthy contrast.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is great for soaking up any leftover sauce.
- Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers offer a refreshing sweetness that complements savory dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
Not using heavy-duty foil: Regular foil may tear, causing spills. Always opt for heavy-duty foil to keep your chicken and veggies secure.
Skipping the marinade time: Some people don’t allow enough time for the flavors to meld. Letting the chicken marinate in the sauce for at least 30 minutes enhances the taste significantly.
Overcrowding the foil packets: Packing too many ingredients can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure each packet has enough space for heat circulation by not overfilling them.
Ignoring cook times: Each grill can vary in heat output. Always check your chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
Not garnishing before serving: Forgetting the green onions can leave your dish looking plain. A simple garnish adds color and flavor, making it visually appealing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover chicken in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil
- Place cooled chicken and veggies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil
Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place chicken in a baking dish covered with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until heated evenly.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth. Cover and steam the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?
Yes, skin-on chicken can be used, but it may require longer cooking times and could become greasy if not monitored closely.
What vegetables work well with Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil?
You can use various summer veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even corn. Feel free to customize based on your preferences!
How do I ensure my chicken is cooked properly?
Always check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F using a meat thermometer. This ensures it is safe to eat.
Can I prepare these foil packets ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the packets in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill them.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the sauce according to your taste. This recipe makes summer grilling easy and flavorful—perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!
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Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil is a vibrant and flavorful dish that captures the essence of summer in every bite. This easy-to-follow recipe features tender, juicy chicken basted in a sweet and tangy pineapple barbecue sauce, complemented by fresh veggies and slices of pineapple. Perfect for picnics, family dinners, or casual gatherings, this meal comes together quickly—grilling in foil ensures the chicken stays moist while keeping your kitchen cool. Customize it with your favorite vegetables for a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Enjoy a taste of the tropics right from your grill!
Ingredients
- 4 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
- 1 cup BBQ Sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can Pineapple Slices (including juice)
- 2 teaspoons Soy Sauce
- 1 teaspoon Garlic
- 1 Red Bell Pepper, cut into cubes
- 2 medium Zucchini, sliced
- Green Onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium heat and cut four sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil.
- Place one chicken breast on each foil sheet, then divide the cubed red bell pepper, sliced zucchini, and pineapple slices evenly among the packets.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, and garlic. Spread two tablespoons over each chicken breast and reserve about 1/4 cup for later.
- Seal the foil packets tightly and grill for 13-15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- Carefully open the packets once cooked; baste with reserved sauce and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 packet (300g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
