Description

This mouthwatering Hawaiian BBQ Chicken recipe is a tropical twist on a classic barbecue dish, combining the sweetness of pineapple with the savory flavors of barbecue sauce and garlic. It's easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for a summer cookout or a weeknight dinner. Once you try this, you'll want to add it to your recipe rotation for good!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite variety)
• 1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned (drained if canned)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish (optional)

Preparation Method

Prepare the Chicken:

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides. This simple seasoning gives the chicken a flavorful base and pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy sauce.
Sear the Chicken:

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until browned. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage, as it will finish cooking later.
Add the Garlic:

After searing the chicken, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The garlic will release its fragrant aroma, enhancing the flavor of the chicken.
Prepare the Hawaiian BBQ Sauce:

In a small bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce and pineapple chunks. Make sure the pineapple is well-drained if you're using canned to avoid a watery sauce. This combination adds a tropical sweetness to balance the savory barbecue flavors.
Simmer the Chicken:

Pour the Hawaiian BBQ sauce mixture over the chicken in the skillet, ensuring that all the chicken breasts are coated. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 10-15 minutes, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
Finish with Fresh Herbs:

Once the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color and added freshness.
Serve:

Serve the Hawaiian BBQ Chicken hot, garnished with additional pineapple chunks or fresh herbs if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Tips and Conclusion

Grill Variation: If you'd prefer a grilled version, you can marinate the chicken breasts in the barbecue sauce, pineapple, and garlic for 30 minutes to 1 hour, then grill them over medium heat until cooked through. Brush the chicken with the remaining sauce while grilling for extra flavor.
Adjust the Sweetness: Depending on your taste, you can adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar to the barbecue sauce.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
This Hawaiian BBQ Chicken is an irresistible mix of sweet and savory, with juicy chicken breasts smothered in a tangy barbecue sauce and tropical pineapple. It's a crowd-pleasing dish that's easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something special for a family gathering, this recipe is sure to bring a taste of the islands to your table. Enjoy!