Easy Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets – A Taste of the Islands with Zero Cleanup!

When the dinner rush feels more like a race against time than a peaceful culinary moment (looking at you, weeknight chaos), these Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets are a breath of island-scented fresh air. Packed with flavor, color, and just the right amount of tropical flair, this dish brings the sweet-and-savory magic of Hawaii BBQ chicken straight to your backyard—or your oven. Bonus? There’s barely a dish to wash when it’s all said and done. 🙌

Whether you’re a mom juggling after-school meltdowns or a working woman trying to cook something that isn’t cereal for dinner, this is your midweek miracle.

Why You’ll Love These Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets

First off, barbeque chicken foil packets are the ultimate fuss-free meal. There’s something a little magical about wrapping up a bunch of fresh, flavorful ingredients in foil and letting the heat do all the work. But this version? It’s a tropical upgrade that feels a little fancy (without actually being fancy).

  • 🌴 Island-inspired flavor: Think sweet pineapple, smoky BBQ sauce, and a little zing from ginger and garlic.
  • 🧼 Minimal cleanup: One foil packet = one less dish to scrub.
  • ⏱️ Weeknight-friendly: Prep in under 20 minutes, then toss them on the grill or in the oven.
  • 🍗 Versatile: Use chicken breasts or thighs, fresh or canned pineapple, and make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Grab your favorite island playlist and round up these kitchen staples:

  • Heavy-duty aluminum foil – Must-have for sturdy packets (double up if using regular foil).
  • 1/2 cup Hawaiian-style BBQ sauce – Look for one with pineapple or fruity notes for that signature tropical tang.
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce – Go with low-sodium to keep things balanced.
  • 1 tbsp honey – Adds sweetness and a glossy finish.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil – Helps everything cook evenly and prevents sticking.
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced – Fresh is a must for the best flavor.
  • 1 tsp grated ginger (optional) – A zingy little bonus if you have it!
  • 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs – Thighs stay juicier, but both work great.
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced – Adds sweet crunch and color.
  • 1 medium red onion, sliced – Caramelizes into a sweet, savory dream.
  • 2 cups pineapple chunks – Fresh is best, but canned (well-drained) totally works.
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional garnishes: Chopped cilantro, green onions, sesame seeds

How to Make Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets

Step 1: Preheat + Prep

If using the oven, preheat to 400°F. If grilling, fire it up to medium-high heat. Tear off four large sheets of heavy-duty foil (about 12×18 inches each).

Step 2: Mix That Tropical Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, soy sauce, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, and ginger (if using). Give it a little taste—you’ll want to dive in already!

Step 3: Assemble Your Packets

Divide the chicken evenly between the foil sheets and season both sides with salt and pepper. Surround each piece with pineapple chunks, sliced bell pepper, and onion.

Step 4: Sauce It Up

Pour the BBQ mixture evenly over each packet. It’s okay if it looks like a saucy mess—trust the process.

Step 5: Seal and Cook

Fold the long sides of the foil up and over the chicken, then crimp the edges to seal. Leave a little space inside for steam.

  • Oven: Bake for 25–30 minutes
  • Grill: Grill for 20–25 minutes
    Check that the chicken hits 165°F at the thickest part before serving.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Carefully open each packet (watch for steam!), sprinkle with chopped cilantro, green onions, or sesame seeds, and serve hot. A scoop of coconut rice or a crisp side salad pairs perfectly.

Chicken Magic Tips ✨

  • Make ahead magic: Assemble your packets in the morning and stash them in the fridge until dinnertime.
  • Kid-friendly tip: Skip the ginger and go a little lighter on the BBQ sauce for tiny tastebuds.
  • No pineapple? Mango chunks or even peaches make a fun twist.
  • Indoor-friendly: No grill? No problem! These shine just as bright from your oven.
Close-up of Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets with grilled chicken, pineapple chunks, and herbs

This Dish Is Personal…

I first made this recipe on a summer evening when the AC went out and turning on the oven felt like a betrayal. The grill was my saving grace. I threw everything into foil, crossed my fingers, and wow—magic happened. Now, it’s one of those reliable go-tos that never disappoints. My kids still call it “chicken surprise,” and honestly, I’m okay with that.

FAQs – Let’s Clear Up the Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets Confusion

Can I use frozen chicken?

Sure, just thaw it completely before assembling your barbeque chicken foil packets so everything cooks evenly.

What if I don’t have Hawaiian-style BBQ sauce?

Use your favorite BBQ sauce and stir in a little pineapple juice, soy sauce, and honey. Boom—instant Hawaii BBQ chicken vibes.

Can I prep these ahead for camping?

Absolutely! These are campsite gold. Just prep and refrigerate in a cooler until ready to grill.

Leftovers—yay or nay?

Yay! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.

Conclusion

There you have it—Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets that deliver big flavor with almost no cleanup. It’s the kind of dish that turns your everyday dinner into a staycation, complete with tropical vibes and satisfied smiles.

So grab your foil, pour that sauce, and let’s bring a little island magic to your table tonight. 🏝️

🌟 Keep the Island Vibes Going – More Chicken Magic to Explore!

If you loved the sweet, smoky flavors of our Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets, you’re going to fall head over heels for these tropical and BBQ-inspired chicken creations too. Whether you’re looking for a grill-friendly meal, a stuffed twist, or something bold and saucy, these recipes will keep your taste buds dancing.

Happy clicking—and even happier cooking! 🍍🔥

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Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets with red peppers and onions

Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets


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  • Author: Aneta
  • Total Time: 45 mins
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

These Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets are a no-fuss, flavor-packed dinner solution that’s perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back grilling. With juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and a tangy BBQ glaze, this foil packet meal brings bold tropical flavor straight to your table—with almost zero cleanup.


Ingredients

Scale
  • Heavy-duty aluminum foil (4 sheets, 12×18 inches each)

  • 1/2 cup Hawaiian-style BBQ sauce

  • 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce

  • 1 tbsp honey (preferably raw)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 tsp grated ginger (optional)

  • 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs

  • 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced

  • 1 medium red onion, sliced

  • 2 cups pineapple chunks (fresh or well-drained canned)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Optional garnish: chopped cilantro, green onions, toasted sesame seeds


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven or grill to 400°F (or medium-high heat on the grill).

  2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, soy sauce, honey, olive oil, garlic, and ginger.

  3. Season chicken with salt and pepper.

  4. Place each chicken portion on its own foil sheet.

  5. Divide pineapple, red bell pepper, and onion evenly among the packets.

  6. Spoon BBQ mixture evenly over each packet.

  7. Fold and seal foil packets, leaving space for steam.

  8. Bake or grill for 25–30 minutes (oven) or 20–25 minutes (grill), until chicken reaches 165°F.

  9. Carefully open packets and garnish with cilantro, green onions, and sesame seeds if desired.

  10. Serve hot, optionally with coconut rice or a light salad.

Notes

Prefer thighs for juicier results, especially when grilling.

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

Swap pineapple for mango or peach chunks for a fun twist.

Be cautious of steam when opening packets!

  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Cook Time: 25 mins
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baked / Grilled
  • Cuisine: Hawaiian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 foil packet
  • Calories: 365 kcal
  • Sugar: 19 g
  • Sodium: 720 mg
  • Fat: 11 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 31 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 34 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg

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