Step-by-step instructions
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Cut four large sheets of aluminum foil and drizzle each with a little olive oil.
- Place one chicken breast in the center of each sheet.
- Top each chicken breast with sliced red and green bell peppers, red onion, and pineapple chunks.
- Spoon about 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce over each piece of chicken, and then seal the foil tightly to form individual packets.
- Place the foil packets on the grill or in the oven and cook for 20 to 25 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
- Carefully open the foil packets, watching out for steam. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired, and serve hot.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets, the options are endless! You can serve these delicious packets as is or over a bed of fluffy rice. Add a side of grilled corn on the cob or a refreshing green salad for a complete meal. Don’t forget a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or some extra BBQ sauce for that added flair!
Storage and reheating tips
If you happen to have leftovers (which is often a rarity with this mouthwatering dish), storing them is simple! Allow the foil packets to cool down, then transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze cooked chicken portions for up to three months. When reheating, either use the microwave or pop them back in the oven until warmed through.
Helpful cooking tips
- To enhance the flavor, marinate the chicken for a couple of hours in the BBQ sauce before assembling the packets.
- If you love a bit of crunch, throw in some sliced jalapeños or use a spicy BBQ sauce to kick it up a notch.
- For an even more tropical twist, consider adding shredded coconut or chopped macadamia nuts.
Creative twists
Get adventurous with Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets by making a few variations. Swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option, or use red or yellow bell peppers for a fresh color palette. You can also play around with different cuisines by adding teriyaki sauce instead of BBQ for a savory Asian twist!
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The prep time for Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets is about 15 minutes, with cooking time taking an additional 20 to 25 minutes, making it a total of roughly 40 minutes from start to finish.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before seasoning and wrapping them in foil to ensure even cooking.
What are the best substitutions for ingredients?
If you’re out of bell peppers, feel free to swap them with zucchini or asparagus. Similarly, if you don’t have pineapple, mango chunks would make a delicious substitute! Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly with different ingredients.
