Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil is perfect for summer cookouts and family gatherings. This dish combines tender chicken with a sweet and tangy pineapple barbecue sauce, all wrapped up in foil for easy grilling. It’s not just delicious; it’s also a great way to pack in fresh veggies like zucchini and bell peppers. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a flavorful meal ready in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of pineapple and BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
• Healthier Option: Packed with lean chicken and fresh veggies, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
• No Mess: Cooking in foil means minimal cleanup—just toss the foil after serving!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-duty aluminum foil
• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-duty aluminum foil: This ensures that your food cooks evenly and retains moisture while grilling.
• Grill: A reliable grill is essential for achieving that perfect smoky flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients like BBQ sauce and pineapple juice smoothly.
• Tongs: Use these for safely turning the chicken packets on the grill without burns.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil:

For the Chicken

• 4 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
• 1 cup BBQ Sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) Can Pineapple Slices (including juice)

For the Vegetables

• 2 teaspoons Soy Sauce
• 1 teaspoon Garlic
• 1 Red Bell Pepper, cut into cubes
• 2 medium Zucchini, sliced
• Green Onions (for garnish)

How to Make Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

Step 1: Prepare the Grill

Heat your grill to medium heat.

Step 2: Assemble Foil Packets

Cut 4 sheets of heavy-duty foil large enough to wrap around the chicken and veggies. Place each chicken breast in the center of a sheet. Distribute the veggies evenly over each piece of chicken and add 2-3 pineapple slices to each packet.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, juice from the pineapple can, soy sauce, and garlic until well combined. Spread about 2 tablespoons of this mixture over each chicken breast. Reserve about 1/4 cup of sauce for later.

Step 4: Grill

Carefully place each packet on the grill. Grill for 13-15 minutes, flipping halfway through (around 7 minutes).

Step 5: Serve

Once cooked, carefully open each packet. Baste with 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

Grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil is a delightful dish that brings tropical flavors to your table. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the chicken over steamed white or brown rice for a hearty meal that absorbs the delicious barbecue sauce.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair with a vibrant garden salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the sweetness of the chicken.

In Tacos

• Shred the grilled chicken and use it as a filling for soft tacos, adding avocado and salsa for extra flavor.

With Grilled Pineapple Slices

• For an authentic Hawaiian touch, serve additional grilled pineapple slices on the side. They complement the barbecue sauce beautifully.

As Sandwiches

• Slice the chicken and place it between toasted buns with lettuce and tomato for a fun sandwich option.

With Corn on the Cob

• Add grilled corn on the cob as a side for a classic summer feel that’s perfect with barbecue dishes.

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How to Perfect Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

For perfectly grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Use fresh, boneless skinless chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
• Marinate Ahead: Let your chicken marinate in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before grilling for maximum flavor.
• Use Heavy-Duty Foil: Opt for heavy-duty foil to prevent any leaks during grilling, ensuring all juices stay inside.
• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium heat before placing your packets on it. This helps ensure even cooking.
• Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allow your packets to rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps keep the juices locked in when you open them.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

To make your meal even more satisfying, consider these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and complements the sweetness of the chicken beautifully.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs offers a nutritious side that’s easy to prepare.
3. Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread to soak up any leftover barbecue sauce from your plate—it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs add a satisfying crunch alongside grilled chicken.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus provides a healthy green option that balances out the meal.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad featuring tropical fruits like mango and kiwi can enhance the island vibes of your dinner.
7. Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans offer rich flavors that pair well with barbecue dishes.
8. Couscous with Veggies: Fluffy couscous mixed with seasonal vegetables makes for an easy-to-make side dish that’s full of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Ignoring the grill temperature: Always preheat your grill to medium heat. Cooking at too high or low a temperature can lead to unevenly cooked chicken.
• Overloading the foil packet: Avoid cramming too many ingredients into the foil. This can prevent proper cooking and result in soggy chicken and veggies.
• Skipping the marinating step: Don’t skip marinating your chicken in BBQ sauce! This adds flavor and moisture, making your grilled chicken even tastier.
• Neglecting cooking time: Keep an eye on the cooking time. Overcooked chicken can dry out, so aim for 13-15 minutes total.
• Not resting before serving: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling allows juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

• Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• The dish can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place packets on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Unwrap the foil and place on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 2-3 minutes or until hot, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cover it with a lid. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil that might help you out.

Can I use different vegetables with Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil?

Yes! Feel free to customize with your favorite summer veggies like bell peppers, corn, or asparagus.

What type of BBQ sauce works best?

A sweet and tangy BBQ sauce complements the pineapple flavor beautifully. Look for one labeled as Hawaiian or tropical.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the foil packets ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil is a delightful dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. The sweet pineapple barbecue sauce combined with fresh veggies makes it versatile and delicious. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients for a unique twist!