Name: Grilled Pineapple BBQ Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup barbecue sauce; 4 pineapple rings (fresh or canned); 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish

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Grilled Pineapple BBQ Chicken is a sweet, smoky, and savory dish that combines tender grilled chicken breasts with tangy barbecue sauce and juicy grilled pineapple rings. This tropical-inspired entrée is perfect for summer cookouts, casual dinners, or anytime you’re craving bold flavor from the grill.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers the perfect balance of smoky BBQ flavor with a tropical twist. It’s easy to prepare, uses just a handful of ingredients, and is versatile enough for a weeknight meal or festive gathering. The grilled pineapple adds natural sweetness and pairs beautifully with the slightly charred chicken and sticky sauce.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Pineapple rings (fresh or canned)
Your favorite barbecue sauce
Olive oil
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt and pepper
Fresh cilantro or green onions (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Preheat grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Brush the chicken with olive oil and place on the grill. Cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
During the last few minutes of grilling, baste the chicken generously with barbecue sauce.
At the same time, place pineapple rings on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until grill marks appear.
Serve the chicken topped with grilled pineapple slices and extra barbecue sauce if desired.
Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use boneless chicken thighs for a juicier option.
Add sliced jalapeños or a spicy BBQ sauce for a kick.
Marinate the chicken in pineapple juice and BBQ sauce for a few hours before grilling.
Serve over rice or with grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Add shredded coconut to the pineapple glaze for a tropical flair.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. The pineapple may be reheated with the chicken or served cold. Avoid freezing grilled pineapple, as it becomes mushy when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, canned pineapple rings work well. Drain thoroughly before grilling.

What type of BBQ sauce is best?

Use your favorite brand—smoky, sweet, spicy, or tangy sauces all complement the pineapple flavor.

Can I grill the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can grill the chicken in advance and reheat before serving, though it’s best fresh.

Do I need a grill to make this recipe?

No. You can use a grill pan or even bake the chicken and broil the pineapple for a similar effect.

Can I marinate the chicken first?

Absolutely. A marinade of pineapple juice, garlic, and BBQ sauce adds extra flavor.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.

Can I use thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great and often stay juicier during grilling.

What sides go well with this dish?

Try it with coconut rice, grilled corn, or a fresh cucumber salad.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using a certified gluten-free BBQ sauce.

Can I make this spicy?

Yes, add hot sauce to the BBQ sauce or top with sliced jalapeños before serving.

Conclusion

Grilled Pineapple BBQ Chicken is a quick and flavorful recipe that brings the taste of summer to your plate. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that balances smoky, sweet, and tangy elements perfectly. Ideal for outdoor grilling or indoor cooking, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Grilled Pineapple BBQ Chicken

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Grilled Pineapple BBQ Chicken is a sweet and smoky dish featuring tender grilled chicken breasts glazed with barbecue sauce and topped with caramelized pineapple rings.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Units Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup barbecue sauce
4 pineapple rings (fresh or canned)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Brush chicken with olive oil and place on the grill.
Grill chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
During the last few minutes of cooking, brush chicken generously with barbecue sauce.
While chicken cooks, grill pineapple rings for 2–3 minutes per side, until caramelized grill marks appear.
Top each chicken breast with a grilled pineapple ring.
Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes.
Garnish with cilantro or green onions if desired and serve warm.