Pineapple BBQ Chicken Bacon: The Ultimate Sweet & Savory Recipe

Pineapple BBQ Chicken Bacon – just the name alone conjures up images of summer cookouts, sweet and savory flavors dancing on your tongue, and pure, unadulterated deliciousness! But this isn’t just another BBQ recipe; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen. I’m so excited to share this recipe with you!

The combination of sweet pineapple, smoky bacon, and tangy barbecue sauce is a culinary trifecta that has roots in various cultures. The use of pineapple with meat dishes can be traced back to Polynesian and Caribbean traditions, where the fruit’s acidity tenderizes the meat and adds a delightful tropical twist. The addition of bacon, a beloved ingredient worldwide, elevates the dish with its salty, smoky depth.

What makes Pineapple BBQ Chicken Bacon so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The juicy, slightly caramelized pineapple complements the savory chicken and crispy bacon. The barbecue sauce ties everything together, creating a harmonious blend that will leave you craving more. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can grill it, bake it, or even cook it in a skillet. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience the magic of Pineapple BBQ Chicken Bacon!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Pineapple BBQ Sauce:
• 1 cup crushed pineapple (canned, in juice, drained)
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
• For the Bacon & Assembly:
• 8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish, optional)
• 4 hamburger buns or rolls (optional, for serving as sandwiches)

Preparing the Pineapple BBQ Sauce:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the crushed pineapple, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This simmering process is crucial for developing the rich, complex flavor of the sauce.
4. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add a little more brown sugar for sweetness, apple cider vinegar for tanginess, or smoked paprika for smokiness.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and set the sauce aside. You can keep it warm or let it cool completely. The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350-400°F or 175-200°C). If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C).
2. While the grill is preheating, prepare the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them to brown nicely.
3. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the chicken breasts with the olive oil mixture, making sure to coat them evenly on both sides. This step is important for adding flavor and helping the chicken to stay moist during cooking.

Grilling (or Baking) the Chicken:

1. Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill.
2. Grill for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Overcooking the chicken will make it dry, so be careful!
3. During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the chicken breasts generously with the Pineapple BBQ Sauce. Flip the chicken and brush the other side with the sauce as well. This will allow the sauce to caramelize and create a sticky, flavorful glaze.
4. If you are baking the chicken, place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). During the last 5 minutes of baking, brush the chicken with the Pineapple BBQ Sauce.

Assembling the Pineapple BBQ Chicken Bacon:

1. While the chicken is grilling or baking, cook the bacon until crispy. Drain the bacon on paper towels to remove excess grease. Crumble or chop the bacon into smaller pieces.
2. Once the chicken is cooked through and glazed with the Pineapple BBQ Sauce, remove it from the grill or oven.
3. Top each chicken breast with crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese.
4. If you are using a grill, you can close the lid for a minute or two to allow the cheese to melt. If you are baking, you can return the chicken to the oven for a minute or two until the cheese is melted.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, if desired.
6. Serve the Pineapple BBQ Chicken Bacon as is, or on hamburger buns or rolls for a delicious sandwich. You can also serve it with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, potato salad, or corn on the cob.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add more cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the Pineapple BBQ Sauce for a spicier kick. You can also use a spicier variety of ketchup.
• Make it sweeter: Add more brown sugar or a drizzle of honey to the Pineapple BBQ Sauce for a sweeter flavor.
• Add some vegetables: Grill or roast some pineapple slices, bell peppers, or onions to serve alongside the chicken.
• Use different cheese: Try using Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or provolone cheese instead of cheddar.
• Make it ahead: The Pineapple BBQ Sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also cook the bacon ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.
• Slow Cooker Option: For a hands-off approach, you can cook the chicken in a slow cooker. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker, pour the Pineapple BBQ Sauce over them, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken with two forks and stir in the cooked bacon and cheese before serving.
• Pineapple Salsa Variation: For a fresher, brighter flavor, consider making a quick pineapple salsa to top the chicken. Dice fresh pineapple, red onion, jalapeno (optional), cilantro, and lime juice. Mix together and spoon over the cooked chicken.
• Bacon Weave: For a visually appealing presentation, try creating a bacon weave to top the chicken. Lay out several strips of bacon horizontally, then weave additional strips vertically through the horizontal strips. Cook the bacon weave in a skillet or oven until crispy, then place it on top of the chicken.
• Grilled Pineapple Rings: Grill thick slices of fresh pineapple alongside the chicken. The caramelized pineapple adds a wonderful sweetness and smoky flavor that complements the BBQ sauce perfectly.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side of coleslaw for a classic BBQ pairing.
• Potato salad or macaroni salad are also great choices.
• Grilled corn on the cob adds a summery touch.
• For a lighter option, serve with a green salad.
• Sweet potato fries or regular fries are always a crowd-pleaser.

Enjoy your delicious Pineapple BBQ Chicken Bacon!

Conclusion:

This Pineapple BBQ Chicken Bacon recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The sweet and tangy pineapple perfectly complements the smoky BBQ sauce, while the crispy bacon adds a salty, savory crunch that elevates the entire dish. Trust me, the combination is absolutely irresistible. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it to your family on a busy Tuesday or impressing guests at a weekend barbecue.

But what truly makes this recipe a must-try is its versatility. Feel free to get creative and adapt it to your own tastes. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the BBQ sauce or use a spicy BBQ sauce to begin with. If you’re not a fan of bacon (though I can’t imagine why!), you could substitute it with diced ham or even leave it out altogether for a lighter version.

Serving suggestions are endless! I personally love serving this Pineapple BBQ Chicken Bacon over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up all that delicious sauce. It’s also fantastic in sandwiches or wraps with some shredded lettuce and a dollop of mayonnaise. For a complete meal, pair it with a side of grilled corn on the cob, a fresh salad, or some roasted vegetables. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some grilled pineapple slices to the side for an extra burst of tropical flavor.

Consider these variations as well:

* Pineapple BBQ Chicken Bacon Skewers: Cut the chicken and pineapple into bite-sized pieces, wrap them in bacon, and thread them onto skewers. Grill or bake until cooked through. Perfect for appetizers or a fun, interactive dinner.
* Pineapple BBQ Chicken Bacon Pizza: Use the chicken, pineapple, and bacon as toppings for a homemade or store-bought pizza crust. Add some mozzarella cheese and a drizzle of BBQ sauce for a truly decadent treat.
* Pineapple BBQ Chicken Bacon Salad: Dice the cooked chicken, pineapple, and bacon and toss them with mixed greens, your favorite vegetables, and a light vinaigrette. A refreshing and flavorful lunch option.
* Slow Cooker Pineapple BBQ Chicken Bacon: For an even easier weeknight meal, combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken and serve as desired.

I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill (or oven), and get ready to experience the magic of Pineapple BBQ Chicken Bacon.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve made it, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear what you thought of it, what variations you tried, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me to create even better recipes in the future. Happy cooking! Don’t forget to rate the recipe too!