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 savory and sweet has made this dish a favorite among families and friends alike, as it perfectly balances taste and texture.

Originating from the fusion of American barbecue traditions and tropical ingredients, Bacon Pineapple BBQ Chicken has become a staple at gatherings and potlucks. People love this dish not only for its mouthwatering flavor but also for its convenience; it’s easy to prepare and can be grilled, baked, or cooked on a stovetop. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or simply looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Join me as we dive into the delicious world of Bacon Pineapple BBQ Chicken and discover how to create this irresistible dish in your own kitchen!

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**: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly. 2. **Prepare the Chicken Breasts**: While the oven is heating, take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and place them on a cutting board. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear later on. 3. **Season the Chicken**: In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated. This will add a wonderful depth of flavor to the chicken.

Cooking the Bacon

4. **Cook the Bacon**: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the bacon slices. Cook them until they are crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally for even cooking. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. 5. **Reserve the Bacon Grease**: Don’t discard the bacon grease in the skillet! This will add incredible flavor to the chicken when we sear it.

Searing the Chicken

6. **Sear the Chicken**: In the same skillet with the reserved bacon grease, increase the heat to medium-high. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step locks in the juices and gives the chicken a beautiful color. 7. **Transfer to Baking Dish**: After searing, transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish. Make sure to leave some space between each piece for even cooking.

Adding BBQ Sauce and Pineapple

8. **Add BBQ Sauce**: Pour the BBQ sauce evenly over the seared chicken breasts. Use a brush or the back of a spoon to spread it out if necessary. This will create a delicious glaze as the chicken bakes. 9. **Add Pineapple**: Sprinkle the diced fresh pineapple over the chicken and BBQ sauce. The sweetness of the pineapple will complement the smoky flavor of the bacon and the tanginess of the BBQ sauce.

Wrapping with Bacon

10. **Wrap the Chicken with Bacon**: Take the crispy bacon slices and carefully wrap each chicken breast with 2 slices of bacon. You can either lay the bacon flat or crisscross them for a more decorative look. Secure the ends of the bacon with toothpicks if needed.

Baking the Chicken

11. **Bake the Chicken**: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when done. The bacon should be crispy and the BBQ sauce bubbling. 12. **Broil for Extra Crispiness**: If you want an extra crispy bacon finish, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Serving the Dish

13. **Remove from Oven**: Once the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, making it more tender. 14. **Garnish and Serve**: If desired, sprinkle some fresh cilantro or parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the Bacon Pineapple BBQ Chicken with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a simple green salad. 15. **Enjoy**: Dig in and enjoy the explosion of flavors! The combination of smoky bacon, sweet pineapple, and tangy BBQ sauce is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.

Tips for Success

– **Choosing the Right BBQ Sauce**: The type of BBQ sauce you use can greatly affect the flavor of the dish. If you prefer

Conclusion:

In summary, this Bacon Pineapple BBQ Chicken recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their grilling game. The combination of smoky bacon, sweet pineapple, and tangy BBQ sauce creates a flavor explosion that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a cozy family dinner, or just craving something delicious, this dish is versatile enough to fit any occasion. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this mouthwatering chicken with a side of coleslaw or grilled vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it over a bed of rice or in a fresh salad for a lighter option. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding different toppings like jalapeños for a spicy kick or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Bacon Pineapple BBQ Chicken recipe a try and share your experience with me. I would love to hear how it turned out for you and any creative twists you added along the way. So fire up that grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a dish that will quickly become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!

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