Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

Grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of fresh pineapple with tender chicken and vibrant summer veggies. Perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or weeknight dinners, this recipe stands out for its ease of preparation and incredible flavor. The foil packets lock in moisture and infuse the chicken with a tangy barbecue sauce, making every bite a taste of tropical paradise.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have dinner ready in no time.
• Flavorful and Juicy: The combination of pineapple and BBQ sauce creates a sweet and savory glaze that keeps the chicken juicy.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Outdoor Cooking: Ideal for grilling season, these packets make it easy to cook outdoors without messy clean-up.
• Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies, this recipe is both satisfying and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To make grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Using the right equipment ensures smooth cooking and delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-duty aluminum foil: This keeps moisture locked in while preventing any leaks during grilling.
• Grill: Provides the perfect heat for cooking the chicken evenly while adding a smoky flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining your ingredients smoothly without mess.
• Tongs: Ideal for flipping the packets safely while grilling.

Ingredients

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)

For Garnish

• Green Onions (for garnish)

How to Make Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

Step 1: Prepare the 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 Packets

Place one chicken breast at the center of each piece of foil. Divide the vegetables evenly among each packet, adding 2-3 pineapple slices into each one.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, juice from the pineapple slices, soy sauce, and garlic until well combined. Reserve about 1/4 cup of this sauce for later use.

Step 4: Add Sauce to Chicken

Spread approximately 2 tablespoons of the prepared sauce over each chicken breast before sealing up the foil packets.

Step 5: Grill the Packets

Place the prepared chicken packets onto the grill. Grill them for 13-15 minutes, flipping them at around 7 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Serve

Carefully open each packet when done. Baste with reserved sauce if desired and garnish with sliced green onions before serving. Enjoy your delicious grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken!

How to Serve Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

Serving grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil is a delightful experience that combines flavor and presentation. The foil packets not only keep the chicken juicy but also create a fun, interactive way to enjoy your meal.

Casual Summer BBQ

• Serve with Rice: Pair the chicken with fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious barbecue sauce.
• Add Fresh Salad: A light green salad with a citrus dressing complements the sweet flavors of the chicken.
• Tropical Fruit Platter: Offer a mix of fresh fruits like mango, kiwi, and watermelon for a refreshing contrast.

Family Dinner

• Create a Foil Packet Bar: Let everyone customize their own foil packet with their choice of veggies and sauce.
• Garnish with Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for added freshness and vibrancy.
• Use Tortillas: Serve the chicken wrapped in tortillas for a fun twist, creating BBQ chicken wraps.

Outdoor Adventure

• Campfire Style: Enjoy these packets straight from the grill over a campfire for an authentic outdoor experience.
• Pair with Chips: Serve alongside tortilla chips for crunch and texture.
• Ice-Cold Beverages: Complement your meal with tropical drinks like pineapple lemonade or coconut water.

How to Perfect Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

To ensure your grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil turns out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips.

• Boldly choose fresh ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and ripe pineapples for enhanced flavor.
• Boldly preheat the grill: Make sure your grill is at medium heat before placing the packets to achieve even cooking.
• Boldly control cooking time: Keep an eye on the grilling time; 13-15 minutes usually does the trick, but check chicken doneness using a meat thermometer.
• Boldly seal your packets well: Ensure each foil packet is tightly sealed to keep steam inside, resulting in tender chicken and veggies.
• Boldly let it rest before serving: Allow the packets to sit for a few minutes after grilling. This makes serving easier and helps lock in juices.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

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

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter makes a perfect summer side.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances sweetness from the barbecue sauce.
3. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad provides comfort and pairs well with grilled flavors.
4. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad loaded with vegetables offers a nutritious option.
5. Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
6. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans provide a hearty complement to this tropical dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin the dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the marinating step: Not allowing the chicken to soak in the sauce can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to marinate it for at least 30 minutes for maximum taste.
• Using thin foil: Thin foil can tear easily and lead to leaking juices. Opt for heavy-duty foil to keep all those delicious flavors contained.
• Overcrowding the packets: Stuffing too many ingredients into one packet can prevent even cooking. Ensure each packet has enough space for steam to circulate.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking for too long or not long enough can affect texture. Stick closely to the suggested 13-15 minutes grilling time for best results.
• Not checking doneness: Undercooked chicken can be unsafe. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Forgetting garnishes: Skipping out on garnishes like green onions can make your dish look less appealing. Always finish with fresh herbs or toppings for a vibrant touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

• Wrap tightly in heavy-duty foil or place in freezer-safe bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place foil packets on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, ensuring it’s heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil is full of delightful flavors, but you might have some questions about it.

Can I use other meats besides chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with pork or shrimp, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I customize my grilled chicken foil packets?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like corn or asparagus, and switch up the BBQ sauce for different flavor profiles!

What should I serve with Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad, making it versatile for any meal.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep your 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 not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. This recipe allows you to mix and match ingredients based on your preferences. The sweet and tangy flavors combined with summer veggies make it perfect for any gathering. Give it a try and enjoy customizing it with your favorite additions!