Looking for the ultimate easy summer meal with bold flavor, minimal cleanup, and serious wow-factor? These Hawaiian BBQ Chicken & Pineapple Foil Packets are a juicy, sweet, and smoky dinner solution that brings tropical vibes straight to your backyard. Whether you’re firing up the grill, baking in the oven, or cooking over a campfire, this is the recipe that does it all.
Why You’ll Love These Foil Packets
- 🌞 Sweet, smoky, and savory in every bite
- 🚪 Zero cleanup thanks to the foil wrap
- ⏳ Fast prep and even faster cleanup
- 🙂 Perfect for picky eaters and flavor lovers alike
- 🚩 Versatile: grill, bake, or cook over a campfire
This is one of those recipes that feels fancy but couldn’t be easier. Prep a few ingredients, wrap them in foil, and boom—you’re done. Great for weeknight dinners, BBQs, and camping trips alike.
Key Ingredients for Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Packets
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts or thighs work great
- Pineapple: Fresh is best, but canned chunks in juice work too
- Bell Peppers: Red, yellow, or green for color and crunch
- Red Onion: Adds a little sweet-sharp depth
- BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought brand or go homemade
- Garlic: Minced, for bold flavor
- Olive Oil: Helps with moisture and flavor
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder
- Optional: Cooked rice, chopped cilantro, fresh lime wedges
Pro tip: Go with a smoky or honey BBQ sauce for max flavor.
How to Make Hawaiian BBQ Chicken & Pineapple Foil Packets
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20–25 mins
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
- 2 cups pineapple chunks
- 2 bell peppers, chopped
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 3/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F. If using a campfire, let the coals burn down until they’re glowing hot.
- Cut chicken into bite-sized chunks and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Chop bell peppers, onions, and pineapple into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Toss everything with a drizzle of olive oil and a few spoonfuls of BBQ sauce.
- Lay out large sheets of foil and divide the mixture evenly between them. Drizzle a little more BBQ sauce on top if you like it saucy.
- Wrap the foil tightly around the mixture, folding edges to seal in the juices.
- Grill or bake for 20–25 minutes, or until chicken is fully cooked and vegetables are tender. Open one packet to check.
- Serve directly from the foil or over cooked rice, with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime if you’re feeling fancy.
Tips for Perfect Foil Packet Meals
- Cut evenly: Keeping all your ingredients roughly the same size ensures even cooking.
- Don’t overstuff: Use two packets instead of one big one if you’ve got a lot of filling.
- Double wrap if you’re grilling over an open flame to prevent tearing.
- Rest before opening: Let packets sit for 2–3 minutes after cooking for juicier chicken.
- Add sauce at the end: A final drizzle of BBQ sauce right before serving takes it over the top.
Variations & Substitutions
- Use shrimp or salmon instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
- Swap in teriyaki sauce for an Asian-inspired flavor profile.
- Add extra veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or corn.
- Make it spicy with sliced jalapeños or a squirt of sriracha.
This is a great base recipe, but totally customizable based on what you love (or what’s in your fridge).
What to Serve with Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Foil Packets
- Coconut rice or jasmine rice
- Grilled corn on the cob
- A crunchy cucumber salad
- Sweet potato fries or roasted potatoes
These foil packets are hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing with a fresh, simple side takes it to the next level.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Prep ahead: Assemble foil packets up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or open the foil and reheat in an air fryer for a crispy edge.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple? Yes! Just drain it well before adding to avoid extra liquid.
Can I cook these in the oven instead of grilling? Absolutely. Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes.
Can I make this dairy-free or gluten-free? Yes! Just use a BBQ sauce that fits your dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
These Hawaiian BBQ Chicken & Pineapple Foil Packets are one of those meals that checks every box: easy, flavorful, and downright fun to eat. Whether you’re grilling for friends or need a no-mess weeknight dinner, this one deserves a spot in your regular rotation. Sweet, smoky, and satisfying—what more could you ask for?
Now go grab some foil and get cooking!