Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

Name: Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
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)

Published: July 28, 2025

by Lucille

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Cleanup: Cooking in foil means less mess to clean up afterward.
Flavorful: The combination of pineapple and BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering taste.
Versatile: You can customize the veggies based on what you have on hand.
Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this dish is ready in no time.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh vegetables, it’s a nutritious meal choice.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have the right tools for success. Using the correct equipment will enhance your cooking experience and ensure your chicken is grilled perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Heavy-duty aluminum foil
Grill
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

Heavy-duty aluminum foil: Provides durability and prevents leaks, keeping all the juices inside.
Grill: Offers that signature smoky flavor while cooking the chicken evenly.
Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining sauces and ensuring an even coating on your chicken.

Ingredients

Grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken made in foil features fresh ingredients that create a delightful dish. Here are what you’ll need:

For the Chicken and Sauce

4 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
1 cup BBQ Sauce
1 (15 ounce) Can Pineapple Slices (including juice)
2 teaspoons Soy Sauce
1 teaspoon Garlic

For the Vegetables

1 Red Bell Pepper (cut into cubes)
2 medium Zucchini (sliced)

For Garnish

Green Onions (for garnish)

How to Make Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

Step 1: Prepare Your Grill

Heat grill to medium heat. Cut 4 sheets of heavy-duty foil large enough to wrap around the chicken and vegetables.

Step 2: Assemble the Foil Packets

Place chicken breasts in the center of each sheet of aluminum foil. Divide the red bell pepper cubes, zucchini slices, and add 2-3 pineapple slices into each packet.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

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

Step 4: Grill the Packets

Carefully fold up the sides of each foil packet to seal them securely. Place packets on the grill and cook for about 13-15 minutes. Flip packets halfway through grilling (around 7 minutes).

Step 5: Serve Your Dish

Once cooked, remove packets from grill carefully as they will be hot. Open packets cautiously to avoid steam burns. 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

Serving grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil is a delightful experience. The combination of sweet pineapple and savory barbecue sauce makes for an irresistible meal. Here are some creative ways to serve this dish.

On a Bed of Rice

Steamed Jasmine Rice – The fluffy texture of jasmine rice pairs perfectly with the flavors of the chicken and sauce.
Coconut Rice – For a tropical twist, try coconut rice infused with coconut milk for added sweetness.

With Fresh Salad

Tropical Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of mango, kiwi, and strawberries balances the savory chicken.
Mixed Green Salad – Crisp greens with a tangy vinaigrette complement the richness of the barbecue sauce.

As Part of a BBQ Platter

Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with butter adds another layer of flavor to your meal.
Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw brings freshness and crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken.

How to Perfect Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

To achieve mouthwatering grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil, consider these helpful tips.

Use Heavy-Duty Foil – This prevents leaks and ensures even cooking while keeping all the flavors contained.
Marinate Chicken – For extra flavor, marinate your chicken breasts in the barbecue sauce for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
Preheat Your Grill – Make sure your grill is preheated to medium heat for even cooking and optimal grill marks.
Don’t Overcrowd Packets – Ensure there’s enough space in each foil packet for steam to circulate; this keeps everything moist.
Check Chicken Temperature – Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Let it Rest – Allow the packets to rest for a few minutes after grilling before opening them. This lets the juices redistribute.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

Pairing side dishes with grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil enhances your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

Garlic Bread – Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover barbecue sauce.
Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a delicious contrast to the sweet chicken.
Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs and citrus makes for a healthy accompaniment.
Baked Potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes topped with sour cream and chives add heartiness to your plate.
Pasta Salad – A cold pasta salad featuring fresh vegetables offers a refreshing bite alongside your meal.
Fruit Skewers – Assemble skewers with pineapple, strawberries, and melon for a fun, colorful side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling can be tricky, especially when preparing Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil. Here are some common mistakes to avoid to ensure your dish turns out perfect.

Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to less flavor. Always allow enough time for the marinade to soak into the meat for a delicious taste.
Using Thin Foil: Thin foil may tear and leak juices. Opt for heavy-duty foil to keep everything contained while grilling.
Overcrowding the Packets: Packing too many ingredients can prevent even cooking. Make sure each packet has enough space for heat circulation.
Ignoring Cooking Times: Not monitoring the cooking time can result in undercooked or burnt chicken. Keep an eye on the grill and flip at the right intervals.
Neglecting to Baste: Failing to baste with reserved sauce can mean missing out on added flavor. Be generous when basting before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil is best consumed within 3-4 days.

Freezing Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

Allow chicken to cool completely before freezing.
Use freezer-safe bags or containers; it will last up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place packets on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe dish, cover, and reheat for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth. Place chicken in the skillet, cover, and cook for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with pork or fish. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and BBQ sauce.

What can I serve with this dish?

Consider pairing it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that complements the barbecue flavors.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh pineapple adds great flavor. Just slice it into rings or chunks similar to canned pineapple slices.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken in Foil is an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners. Its sweet and tangy profile makes it appealing for all ages. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the level of sweetness in the sauce. Enjoy this delightful recipe, and happy grilling!

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