Bacon Pineapple BBQ Chicken: A Deliciously Sweet and Savory Recipe

Bacon Pineapple BBQ Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the smoky richness of bacon, the sweetness of pineapple, and the tangy goodness of barbecue sauce. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that transports you to a summer backyard barbecue, no matter the season. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and caramelized pineapple creates a symphony of taste and texture that is simply irresistible.

Historically, the fusion of sweet and savory ingredients has been a hallmark of many culinary traditions, and this dish is no exception. People love Bacon Pineapple BBQ Chicken for its convenience and versatility; it can be grilled, baked, or even cooked in a slow cooker, making it perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. The delightful contrast of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser, ensuring that everyone at the table will be asking for seconds. Join me as we dive into this mouthwatering recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
• 8 slices of bacon
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Chicken

1. **Preheat the Oven**: I like to start by preheating my oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets that nice, juicy texture. 2. **Prepare the Chicken Breasts**: While the oven is heating, I take the chicken breasts and place them on a cutting board. I like to pound them gently with a meat mallet to ensure they cook evenly. This step is optional, but it helps to tenderize the meat. 3. **Season the Chicken**: In a small bowl, I mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. I then rub this seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure they are well coated. This adds a wonderful flavor to the chicken.

Preparing the Bacon

4. **Cook the Bacon**: In a skillet over medium heat, I cook the bacon until it’s crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, I remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain excess grease. I like to chop the bacon into small pieces once it cools down a bit.

Combining Ingredients

5. **Mix the BBQ Sauce and Pineapple**: In a medium bowl, I combine the BBQ sauce and diced pineapple. This sweet and tangy mixture is what makes this dish so special. I stir it well to ensure the pineapple is evenly coated in the sauce. 6. **Wrap the Chicken**: Now comes the fun part! I take each seasoned chicken breast and wrap it with two slices of bacon. I secure the ends of the bacon with toothpicks if needed, ensuring that the chicken is fully covered. This not only adds flavor but also keeps the chicken moist while cooking.

Cooking the Chicken

7. **Place in Baking Dish**: I take a baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little olive oil. I then place the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts in the dish, making sure they are not overcrowded. 8. **Add the BBQ Pineapple Mixture**: I pour the BBQ sauce and pineapple mixture over the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is generously coated. This will create a delicious glaze as it cooks. 9. **Bake the Chicken**: I cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. I bake the chicken for about 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, I remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).

Finishing Touches

10. **Check for Doneness**: I always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. Once it reaches 165°F, I know it’s ready to come out of the oven. 11. **Garnish and Serve**: After removing the chicken from the oven, I let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the chicken. I then garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. 12. **Slice and Enjoy**: I slice the chicken breasts into thick pieces and serve them on a platter, drizzling any remaining BBQ sauce from the baking dish over the top. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a fresh garden salad.

Tips for Success

– **Choosing the Right BBQ Sauce**: The choice of BBQ sauce can make a big difference in flavor. I recommend using a sauce that you love, whether it’s sweet, tangy, or spicy. You can even make your own BBQ sauce if you’re feeling adventurous! – **Pineapple Variations**: If you want to switch things up, you can use canned pineapple chunks or even grilled pineapple for a smoky flavor. Just make sure to drain any excess juice if using canned. – **Bacon Alternatives**: If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon can be used instead of regular bacon

Conclusion:

In summary, this Bacon Pineapple BBQ Chicken recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners or impress guests at a summer barbecue. The combination of smoky bacon, sweet pineapple, and tangy barbecue sauce creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this dish with a refreshing coleslaw or a light green salad to balance the richness of the bacon. You can also serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside grilled vegetables for a complete meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the pineapple for mango or peach for a different fruity twist, or add some jalapeños for a spicy kick! I encourage you to give this Bacon Pineapple BBQ Chicken a try and share your experience with friends and family. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Whether you stick to the original recipe or make your own variations, I’m sure you’ll find it to be a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. So grab your ingredients, fire up the grill, and enjoy the deliciousness that awaits! Print