Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

Grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil is a delightful dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors in one easy-to-make package. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or even camping trips. The combination of juicy chicken and fresh pineapple, paired with vibrant vegetables, makes this meal not only delicious but also visually appealing. Plus, cooking it in foil keeps the chicken moist and infuses every bite with the tangy barbecue sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready on the grill.
• Flavorful: The sweet and tangy pineapple barbecue sauce elevates the taste of the chicken and veggies.
• Versatile: Customize your foil packets with your favorite vegetables or side dishes for endless variations.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These packets can be made ahead of time and stored until you’re ready to grill.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking in foil means less mess and no need to scrub pots and pans after dinner.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil, make sure you have the right tools ready. This will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-duty aluminum foil: Provides durability for grilling while keeping all flavors contained.
• Grill: Offers an authentic smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.

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 a piece of chicken at the center of each sheet of aluminum foil. Divide the red bell pepper, zucchini, and add 2–3 pineapple slices into each packet.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, juice from the can of pineapple slices, soy sauce, and garlic. Spread about 2 tablespoons of this mixture over each piece of chicken. Reserve about 1/4 cup for basting later.

Step 4: Grill the Packets

Carefully fold up each packet to seal. Place them on the grill and cook for 13–15 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking for even grilling.

Step 5: Serve

Once cooked, carefully open each packet to avoid steam burns. Baste with reserved sauce and garnish with green onions before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil!

How to Serve Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

Serving grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken in foil is simple and delicious. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes that enhance its sweet and tangy flavor. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Fresh Salad

• Tropical Fruit Salad: Combine fresh fruits like mango, kiwi, and strawberries for a refreshing side.
• Cucumber and Avocado Salad: Chop cucumbers and avocados, drizzle with lime juice for a light crunch.

Rice Dishes

• Coconut Rice: Cook rice in coconut milk for a creamy texture that complements the chicken.
• Fried Rice: Stir-fry leftover rice with veggies and soy sauce for a hearty addition.

Wraps

• Lettuce Wraps: Serve chicken in crisp lettuce leaves with additional toppings like salsa or avocado slices.
• Tortilla Wraps: Use flour tortillas to create a fun wrap filled with chicken, veggies, and sauce.

How to Perfect Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

To ensure your grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken comes out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Boldly choose high-quality chicken: Select fresh, boneless skinless chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
• Boldly marinate adequately: Allow the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes before grilling for enhanced taste.
• Boldly preheat your grill: Ensure your grill reaches medium heat before placing the foil packets on it for even cooking.
• Boldly flip halfway through cooking: Turning the packets halfway ensures even cooking and prevents burning on one side.
• Boldly check internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Boldly serve immediately: Enjoy the grilled Hawaiian barbecue chicken fresh off the grill for optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

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

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage and carrots adds a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grill corn alongside the chicken for a sweet, smoky flavor that complements BBQ vibes.
3. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is a classic side that balances well with grilled flavors.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears can be grilled alongside your chicken for an easy veggie option.
5. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans provide a hearty element that pairs wonderfully with barbecue dishes.
6. Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread as a tasty accompaniment to scoop up any extra sauce from your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and presentation. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

• Using the wrong type of foil: Not all aluminum foil is created equal. Use heavy-duty foil to prevent tearing and leaking during grilling, ensuring your chicken remains juicy and flavorful.

• Neglecting to marinate: Skipping the marination step can lead to bland chicken. Make sure to allow your chicken to soak in the barbecue sauce mixture for at least 30 minutes before grilling for enhanced flavor.

• Overcrowding the foil packets: Stuffing too many ingredients into one packet can result in uneven cooking. Limit each packet to one chicken breast and a manageable amount of veggies for even grilling.

• Grilling at inconsistent temperatures: Cooking chicken on varying heat can lead to undercooked or overcooked meat. Preheat your grill properly and maintain a consistent medium heat for optimal results.

• Skipping the garnish: Failing to add garnishes like green onions can make your dish look less appealing. Don’t forget this simple step; it adds a pop of color and enhances presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled chicken in an airtight container.
• It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil

• Wrap individual packets tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The chicken can be frozen for up to 2-3 months without losing quality.

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 20 minutes or until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place one packet on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through for doneness.

• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a little water or chicken broth. Place the packet in the skillet, cover, and steam for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil that might help you out!

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or pork. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the protein used.

What kind of BBQ sauce works best?

A sweet barbecue sauce complements the pineapple well but feel free to experiment with different flavors like spicy or tangy options!

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Can I prepare these packets ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble your foil packets and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling.

Are there any vegetable alternatives?

You can use any summer veggies you like! Bell peppers, corn, or asparagus work perfectly as substitutes.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken in Foil is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. This recipe offers a fantastic blend of sweet and tangy flavors while being easy to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins. Try it out at your next gathering; you won’t be disappointed!