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 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 1/2 cup BBQ sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Hearty & Delicious Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Sweet Pineapple BBQ Chicken for family gatherings and barbecues. The combination of juicy chicken and a sweet, tangy pineapple barbecue sauce creates a deliciously tropical experience. This dish not only fills the house with mouth-watering aromas but also promises to impress my guests every time. Whether you serve it over rice or in a sandwich, it brings a bit of sunshine to any table. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to whip up, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced cooks alike.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T03:19:29.969Z

When I first tried Sweet Pineapple BBQ Chicken at a friend’s barbecue, I knew I had to recreate it at home. The flavor of sweet pineapple mixed with savory barbecue sauce was a new experience that tantalized my taste buds! After experimenting with various sauces and ingredients, I finally found the perfect balance that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

One key detail I discovered is to marinate the chicken thighs in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This not only enhances the flavor but also ensures the chicken remains juicy and tender throughout the cooking process. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful mix of sweet pineapple and zesty BBQ flavors.
Easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues.
Healthy and satisfying, with juicy chicken and a tropical twist.

      

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step that enhances the overall flavor of Sweet Pineapple BBQ Chicken. The olive oil helps to keep the chicken moist while also allowing the spices and BBQ sauce to penetrate deeply. Aim for a minimum of 30 minutes for marination, but if you have time, letting it sit for 1-2 hours in the refrigerator will yield even more robust flavors. Remember to turn the chicken occasionally to ensure even coverage.

The combination of pineapple and BBQ sauce in the marinade not only adds sweetness but also helps to tenderize the chicken. Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that breaks down proteins, making the meat more tender. Just be cautious not to marinate for too long, as this could lead to a mushy texture.

Grilling Tips for Perfect Texture

When grilling, it’s essential to maintain a consistent medium-high heat to achieve that gorgeous char while avoiding drying out the chicken. Preheating the grill for about 10-15 minutes will ensure your grill grates are hot enough to create those attractive grill marks. You can test the temperature by holding your hand about 6 inches above the grill; you should be able to hold it there for 4-5 seconds.

Remember to avoid overcrowding the grill; giving the chicken space allows for better heat circulation and helps it cook evenly. A good tip is to only flip the chicken once during cooking—this helps achieve a nice crust without losing moisture.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and pineapple chunks. Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken and toss until fully coated.

Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the Grill

While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You can grease the grill grates with a little oil to prevent sticking.

Grill the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken thighs on the preheated grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear.

Serve

Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with more pineapple chunks if desired.

Enjoy your Sweet Pineapple BBQ Chicken with rice or inside a sandwich!

Pro Tips

For an extra zing, add some chopped jalapeños to the marinade for a spicy kick!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the Sweet Pineapple BBQ Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave it on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure it’s heated through without overcooking, which can make the chicken tough.

For meal planning, you can prepare the marinade and chicken a day ahead, letting it soak in the flavors overnight. Just remember to adjust your cooking time slightly if the chicken is coming straight from the fridge, as it may require an extra minute or two on the grill.

Serving Suggestions

Sweet Pineapple BBQ Chicken goes wonderfully served over a bed of fluffy rice, which soaks up the delicious juices. Alternatively, try it in a toasted sandwich with coleslaw for a fresh crunch, or shredded in tacos topped with avocado and cilantro for a vibrant twist. Pairing it with grilled vegetables can also enhance the dish’s tropical vibe.

For an extra touch, consider garnishing the chicken with fresh cilantro or green onions before serving. Not only does this add a pop of color, but it also contributes an aromatic freshness that complements the sweet and tangy flavors beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs are juicier and flavor-packed. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook them.

→ How can I make the BBQ sauce from scratch?

You can combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and spices to create a quick homemade BBQ sauce.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before grilling.

→ Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Yes, bake the marinated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, basting with more BBQ sauce halfway through.