Barbecue Pineapple Chicken 30 Minutes Easy Delicious

Barbecue Pineapple Chicken is a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. This dish combines the juicy goodness of chicken with the tropical sweetness of pineapple, all simmered in a rich barbecue sauce. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, Barbecue Pineapple Chicken is a recipe that’s sure to please the entire family.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Barbecue Pineapple Chicken

To make this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients: boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pineapple chunks, barbecue sauce, and a handful of seasonings. The pineapple not only adds a delightful burst of sweetness, but it also helps to tenderize the chicken, making it fall-off-the-bone tender. The barbecue sauce provides a savory, smoky backdrop that perfectly complements the tropical flavors.

Key Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro

Preparation Steps for Barbecue Pineapple Chicken

Getting this Barbecue Pineapple Chicken dish ready for the oven is a breeze. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a baking dish with olive oil. In a bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, pineapple juice, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt to create a flavorful sauce. Then, place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, top with the pineapple chunks, and pour the sauce mixture over the top.

Cooking Techniques

Bake the Barbecue Pineapple Chicken uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. The key to perfectly cooked chicken is to use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This will guarantee juicy, tender chicken every time.

Serving Suggestions

Once the Barbecue Pineapple Chicken is out of the oven, sprinkle some fresh chopped cilantro on top for a vibrant finishing touch. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, such as fluffy white rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. For a tropical twist, serve it with coconut rice or a pineapple-mango salsa. No matter what you choose, this Barbecue Pineapple Chicken is sure to be the star of the show.

Health Benefits

Not only is Barbecue Pineapple Chicken absolutely delicious, but it’s also a relatively healthy meal option. Chicken is a lean protein that’s packed with essential nutrients, while pineapple is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Together, these ingredients provide a balanced and nutritious dinner that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for Barbecue Pineapple Chicken?

To make Barbecue Pineapple Chicken, you will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, pineapple chunks (fresh or canned), barbecue sauce, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and optional ingredients like green onions and sesame seeds for garnish. You can also add bell peppers or onions for added flavor.

How do I cook Barbecue Pineapple Chicken?

You can cook Barbecue Pineapple Chicken using several methods: grilling, baking, or stovetop. For grilling, marinate the chicken in a mixture of barbecue sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, then grill for about 6-7 minutes per side, adding pineapple chunks for the last few minutes. For baking, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the marinated chicken and pineapple in a baking dish, and bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. For stovetop cooking, sauté the chicken in a skillet until cooked, then add barbecue sauce and pineapple to heat through.

Can I use frozen chicken for Barbecue Pineapple Chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to fully thaw it before cooking to ensure even cooking and food safety. You can thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Once thawed, you can marinate and cook it as you would with fresh chicken.

What can I serve with Barbecue Pineapple Chicken?

Barbecue Pineapple Chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with rice (white or brown), quinoa, or a fresh green salad. Grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, or coleslaw also make great accompaniments. For a tropical twist, you could serve it with coconut rice or a fruit salad.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Slow Cooker Pineapple Pork
• Grilled Shrimp Bowl
• Cheesy Bacon Ranch Stuffed Chicken Bombs
• BBQ Bacon Chicken Bites

Conclusion

Barbecue Pineapple Chicken is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines the savory flavors of barbecue with the tropical sweetness of pineapple. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or cooking it on the stovetop, this recipe is sure to be a hit with the whole family. So fire up your oven or get your grill ready, and let’s dive into the irresistible world of Barbecue Pineapple Chicken!

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