Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

Grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil is a delightful dish that brings the taste of summer to your table any time of the year. With its sweet and tangy pineapple barbecue sauce, this recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also simplifies cleanup, making it perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or a cozy dinner at home. The combination of juicy chicken, fresh pineapple, and vibrant veggies ensures a burst of flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The sweet pineapple and savory BBQ sauce create a mouthwatering mix that everyone will love.
• Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking in foil packets means less mess and no need for extra dishes.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add or swap veggies based on what you have on hand.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather all the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-duty aluminum foil: Ensures that your chicken cooks evenly while keeping moisture locked in.
• Grill: Provides that smoky flavor which enhances the overall taste of the grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken.

Ingredients

To create this flavorful dish, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

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

For Flavoring

• 2 teaspoons Soy Sauce
• 1 teaspoon Garlic

For Veggies

• 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

1. Heat your grill to medium heat.
2. Cut four sheets of heavy-duty foil large enough to wrap around the chicken and veggies.

Step 2: Assemble the Foil Packets

1. Place one chicken breast in the center of each piece of foil.
2. Divide the cubed red bell pepper and sliced zucchini evenly among the packets.
3. Add 2-3 pineapple slices from the can into each packet.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

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

Step 4: Grill the Packets

1. Carefully place each foil packet on the grill.
2. Grill for 13-15 minutes, flipping each packet halfway through cooking time.
3. Once cooked, carefully open each packet, baste with reserved sauce, and garnish with 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 not only easy but also fun! The vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients make it a perfect dish for gatherings or casual dinners. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Use Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Sprinkling fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and freshness.
• Basil: Chopped basil can provide an aromatic touch that complements the BBQ sauce.

Pair with Rice

• Coconut Rice: This sweet, creamy rice pairs beautifully with the tangy chicken.
• Brown Rice: A healthier alternative that adds texture and nutty flavor.

Add a Crunchy Salad

• Coleslaw: A crispy slaw with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chicken.
• Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumbers tossed in vinegar provide a cool contrast.

Serve with Dipping Sauces

• Spicy Mayo: A zesty mayo can add a creamy kick.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: Drizzling this sauce will intensify the Hawaiian flavors.

How to Perfect Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

Perfecting grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil involves careful preparation and grilling techniques. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Marinate Overnight: Letting the chicken marinate overnight enhances flavor penetration.
• Use Heavy-Duty Foil: This prevents leaks and ensures even cooking while keeping everything moist.
• Preheat the Grill: Grilling on medium heat allows for even cooking without drying out the chicken.
• Check Internal Temperature: Ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safety and tenderness.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling retains its juiciness.
• Customize Veggies: Feel free to use seasonal veggies to suit your taste or what’s available.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

To complement your grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken, consider these side dishes. Each one adds unique flavors and textures to your meal!

1. Grilled Pineapple Slices: Sweet, caramelized slices add a tropical twist that pairs perfectly with the dish.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn provides sweetness and is easy to prepare alongside the main dish.
3. Baked Beans: A hearty side that adds protein and complements the BBQ flavors well.
4. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad balances out the tanginess of the barbecue sauce.
5. Quinoa Salad: A nutritious option packed with veggies, offering a light crunch and refreshing taste.
6. Roasted Asparagus: Simple yet elegant, roasted asparagus adds color and a slightly earthy flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Using regular aluminum foil: Regular foil may not hold up well on the grill. Opt for heavy-duty foil instead to prevent tearing and ensure your packets stay intact.

• Not marinating long enough: Skipping the marinating step or rushing it can lead to bland chicken. Allow the chicken to soak in the barbecue sauce mixture for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.

• Overcrowding the foil packets: Packing too many ingredients into one packet can result in uneven cooking. Use separate packets for each serving to ensure even grilling and proper cooking times.

• Ignoring grill temperature: Grilling at too high or low a temperature can burn the food or leave it undercooked. Aim for medium heat to achieve perfectly cooked chicken and veggies.

• Neglecting to baste: Failing to baste with reserved sauce while grilling can lead to dry chicken. Baste halfway through cooking for added moisture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled Hawaiian barbecue 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

• Wrap individual packets tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the foil packet directly on the rack or a baking sheet. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently until hot.

• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat, add the chicken, cover, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with pork or shrimp if you prefer. Adjust cooking times accordingly since these proteins may require different grilling durations.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil gluten-free, choose a gluten-free BBQ sauce and soy sauce alternative such as tamari.

What vegetables work best with this recipe?

You can customize your veggies based on preference! Bell peppers, zucchini, corn, and asparagus all pair well with this dish and add great flavor.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the foil packets ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This makes it perfect for meal prep!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil is an excellent choice for meal prepping as it stores well and reheats easily without losing flavor.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. The sweet and tangy pineapple barbecue sauce elevates this dish, making it perfect for summer gatherings or simple weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize it with your choice of vegetables or swap out proteins according to taste preferences. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!