Sweet Pineapple BBQ Chicken

Name: Sweet Pineapple BBQ Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 1 cup BBQ sauce; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Taste Adventures

I absolutely love bringing a taste of the tropics to my dining table with this Sweet Pineapple BBQ Chicken recipe. The combination of sweet, juicy pineapple and smoky barbecue sauce creates an explosion of flavor that my family can't resist. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for grilling any time of year. I often serve it with a side of rice or fresh salad, making it a go-to favorite for family gatherings or weekend barbeques.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-30T03:19:30.254Z

When I first tried this Sweet Pineapple BBQ Chicken, I was amazed at how the flavors melded together. The acidity of the pineapple complements the richness of the BBQ sauce, making each bite a delightful surprise. The recipe ensures that the chicken remains juicy and tender, thanks to marinating.

After many attempts, I learned that grilling the chicken over medium heat keeps it moist without drying out. I also add a bit of crushed red pepper to the barbecue sauce for a subtle kick, which perfectly balances the sweetness from the pineapple. This dish has become a staple in our home!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy chicken infused with sweet pineapple flavor
A perfect blend of sweet and smoky BBQ sauce
Quick and easy preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights

Maximizing Flavor with Marinades

Marinating the chicken is crucial for infusing it with flavor, and the longer you let it soak, the better it gets. I recommend at least 20 minutes, but if you have more time, consider marinating it for up to 2 hours. This allows the chicken to absorb the sweet and savory notes of the BBQ sauce, honey, and soy sauce. For an even bolder flavor, try adding a splash of pineapple juice to the marinade for an extra tropical kick.

Be cautious not to over-marinate, especially if using a soy-based marinade, as the salt can break down the chicken's texture, making it mushy. You want the chicken to remain juicy but firm, which perfectly complements the caramelized pineapple. A good tip is to combine all the marinade ingredients first to ensure they blend well and coat the chicken evenly.

Grilling Techniques for Perfect Chicken

When grilling the chicken, ensure your grill is preheated to medium heat, around 350–400°F. This temperature helps to achieve those perfect grill marks while cooking the chicken evenly. If you place the chicken on the grill and hear a satisfying sizzle, you know you're on the right track. Cooking for about 6-7 minutes per side is ideal, but be sure to flip only once to maintain juiciness and avoid sticking.

Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer; your chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If you find the chicken browning too quickly, you can move it to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking without burning. Keeping the lid closed during cooking helps maintain consistent heat and moisture, leading to a perfectly grilled chicken.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

For serving, I like to pair this Sweet Pineapple BBQ Chicken with a side of fluffy jasmine rice or a refreshing cucumber salad. The lightness of the salad complements the rich flavors of the chicken, creating a well-rounded meal. You can also slice the chicken and serve it in wraps with fresh veggies for a quick lunch option. Don't forget to drizzle with some additional BBQ sauce for extra flavor!

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on a skillet to preserve the chicken's juiciness. You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to three months. To reheat, let it defrost in the fridge overnight and warm it through on the grill or a skillet, adding some fresh pineapple if you like for an extra burst of flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious Sweet Pineapple BBQ Chicken:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
1 cup BBQ sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Make sure everything is ready before you begin cooking to ensure a smooth process.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Sweet Pineapple BBQ Chicken:

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, soy sauce, olive oil, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and let them sit for at least 20 minutes.

Prepare the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium heat. Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.

Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until thoroughly cooked and reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.

Add Pineapple

During the last few minutes of grilling, add the pineapple chunks to the grill to heat them through and caramelize slightly.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the chicken and pineapple from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken, top with grilled pineapple, and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot!

Now you're ready to enjoy a delicious meal that’s sure to impress!

Pro Tips

For even more flavor, try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the marinade. You can also substitute the chicken with firm tofu for a vegetarian option.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to switch up the protein, this recipe works beautifully with pork or firm tofu as a plant-based alternative. Both can absorb the marinade’s flavors just as well as chicken, giving you a versatile dish. Adjust cooking times accordingly; tofu may need slightly less heat and time compared to the chicken, around 4-5 minutes per side until golden.

If you're keen on reducing sugar, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, which will still provide that lovely sweetness but with a hint of unique flavor. Additionally, using a low-sodium BBQ sauce can help keep the dish healthier without sacrificing taste.

Flavor Variations to Try

For those looking to spice things up, consider adding finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a sweet-heat combo. This adds a delightful kick without overpowering the sweetness of the pineapple. You could also try experimenting with different BBQ sauces, such as a tangy mustard-based sauce or a smoky chipotle variety.

Another way to add variety is to include fruits other than pineapple, such as peaches or mango. These fruits can also caramelize beautifully on the grill and add their unique sweetness, making your dish even more tropical and flavorful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will remain juicy and flavorful, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Can I prepare this dish in the oven?

Yes, preheat your oven to 375°F and bake the marinated chicken in a baking dish for about 25-30 minutes.

→ What type of BBQ sauce works best?

A sweet and tangy BBQ sauce works best for this recipe, but feel free to use your favorite brand.

→ How can I make this dish spicy?

You can add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for some heat.