Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Bacon is a savory-sweet dish that brings together smoky barbecue flavor, juicy pineapple, and crispy bacon in every bite. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or backyard cookouts, offering a tropical twist on classic barbecue chicken. The combination of sweet, tangy, and salty makes this dish irresistible and crowd-pleasing.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breasts or thighsBBQ saucepineapple rings or chunksbacon slicesgarlic powdersalt and pepperolive oilfresh parsley or green onions (optional for garnish)

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Wrap each piece of chicken with a slice of bacon and place it in the baking dish.

Top each chicken piece with a pineapple ring or spoonful of pineapple chunks.

Brush generously with BBQ sauce.

Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.

If desired, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end to caramelize the top.

Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 30 minutesTotal time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use turkey bacon for a lighter version.

Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Swap chicken with pork chops or tofu for a different protein option.

Use homemade BBQ sauce to control sweetness and spice levels.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave for 1-2 minutes.For freezing, store cooked and cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I grill this instead of baking?

Yes, just pre-cook the bacon slightly before wrapping and grill on medium heat until the chicken is cooked.

Does canned pineapple work?

Absolutely, just drain it well to avoid excess liquid.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep it up to a day in advance and bake when ready.

Is it spicy?

Not unless you add spicy BBQ sauce or peppers.

What sides go well with this dish?

Serve it with rice, coleslaw, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, just adjust the cooking time accordingly (about 40-45 minutes).

How do I make it gluten-free?

Ensure your BBQ sauce and bacon are gluten-free.

Do I have to use bacon?

No, but it adds a great smoky flavor. You can skip or use a plant-based alternative.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, then broil to crisp the bacon.

Can I use fresh pineapple?

Definitely, just cut it into rings or chunks before using.

Conclusion

Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Bacon is a deliciously easy meal bursting with bold flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you bake it for a family dinner or grill it for your next barbecue, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone. The mix of sweet pineapple, tangy sauce, and savory bacon makes every bite unforgettable.