Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets Easy Recipe

When summer rolls in or I just want a simple tropical-inspired dinner that doesn’t mess up my kitchen, these Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets come to the rescue. Sweet, savory, smoky, and juicy — it’s everything I love about grilling season wrapped up in a tidy little foil pack. They’re loaded with bold barbecue flavor, fresh pineapple, and colorful bell peppers.

Whether you throw them on the grill or pop them in the oven, this easy recipe is packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy nights, backyard parties, or camping dinners!

Ingredients You’ll Need to make Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets

For the seasoning rub + sauce:

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked or regular paprika
• ½ teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
• Cayenne pepper to taste (I use a pinch)
• ¾ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite!)

For the foil packets:

• 6 thin-cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 to 3 cups chopped red, orange, or yellow bell peppers (about 2 large peppers)
• 2 to 3 cups chopped fresh pineapple (fresh is best!)
• Chopped chives or green onions for garnish

Tip: Try a sweet and smoky barbecue sauce or one with a little heat to play off the pineapple.

How to Make Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets

Step 1: Preheat the Grill or Oven

• Grill: Preheat to 375°F
• Oven: Preheat to 400°F

I use a pellet grill, but a standard gas grill or oven works just as well.

For Step 2: Make the Seasoning Rub

• In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, chili powder, salt, garlic powder, paprika, pepper, and cayenne.
• Pat chicken dry and coat both sides with the rub. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Foil Packets

1. Tear six 20-inch pieces of heavy-duty foil (or double up regular foil).
2. Spray the center of each with nonstick cooking spray.
3. Divide the bell peppers evenly on each foil sheet (about 1/3 cup).
4. Add 1/3 to 1/2 cup fresh pineapple over the peppers.
5. Sprinkle with green onions or chives.
6. Place one seasoned chicken breast on top.
7. Generously spoon BBQ sauce over each piece of chicken.
8. Bring foil edges up, folding tightly to seal but leaving space inside for steam.

Make ahead tip: Assemble packets in the morning and refrigerate until dinner.

Step 4: Cook the Packets

• Grill: Place packets directly on the grates and cook for 15–18 minutes.
• Oven: Bake directly on the rack or a baking sheet for the same time.

Carefully open one packet to check if chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temp). Reseal and cook longer if needed.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

• Serve directly in the foil or transfer to plates.
• Spoon any juices over rice, cauliflower rice, or grilled veggies.
• Garnish with extra green onions or chives.

What Makes This Hawaiian Chicken Recipe So Irresistible?

• Sweet & savory combo from pineapple and BBQ sauce
• Minimal cleanup with one-packet cooking
• Customizable with veggies or different sauces
• Gluten-free and dairy-free naturally
• Perfect for meal prep or entertaining

Can I Make These Foil Packets Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prep the packets a few hours in advance. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to grill or bake. Great for camping or lake day dinners!

Pro Tip: Use fresh pineapple if possible. Canned works in a pinch but doesn’t give the same vibrant texture.

Hawaiian BBQ Chicken FAQs about Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets

What is Hawaiian BBQ chicken made of?
It’s usually chicken marinated or coated in a sweet-savory BBQ sauce often paired with pineapple, soy sauce, or ginger.

Does pineapple tenderize chicken?
Yes! Pineapple contains enzymes (like bromelain) that help break down proteins and tenderize meat.

Can I make these in the oven instead of the grill?
Absolutely! Just bake at 400°F for about 15–18 minutes.

Can I use canned pineapple?
Fresh is best, but drained canned pineapple can be used in a pinch.

What’s the best BBQ sauce for this?
Use what you love! I prefer a tangy, smoky sauce or one with a hint of spice.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Sweet and tangy slow-cooked Hawaiian chicken recipe
• Grilled foil packet chicken meals with bacon and ranch
• Barbecue beef tacos with a tropical flair

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Tried This Recipe?

Let us know how it turned out in the comments! Did you grill it or bake it? Fresh or canned pineapple? We love hearing from you!

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