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.

Originating from the fusion of American barbecue traditions and tropical flavors, Bacon Pineapple BBQ Chicken has become a favorite for many families. People love this dish not only for its mouthwatering taste but also for its convenience; it’s easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. The balance of savory and sweet makes it a crowd-pleaser, ensuring that everyone at the table will be asking for seconds. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a staple in your 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**: Take the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and place them on a cutting board. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1 inch. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay juicy. 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 well coated. This will add a wonderful flavor to the chicken.

Preparing the Bacon

4. **Cook the Bacon**: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until they are crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. 5. **Chop the Bacon**: Once the bacon has cooled slightly, chop it into small pieces. This will make it easier to sprinkle over the chicken later.

Assembling the Dish

6. **Prepare the Baking Dish**: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil to prevent sticking. 7. **Layer the Chicken**: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Make sure they are not overlapping to ensure even cooking. 8. **Add BBQ Sauce**: Pour the BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is well coated. You can use a brush to spread the sauce if you prefer a more even layer. 9. **Add Pineapple and Bacon**: Sprinkle the diced pineapple evenly over the BBQ sauce-covered chicken. Then, sprinkle the chopped bacon on top of the pineapple. This combination of flavors will create a deliciously sweet and savory dish.

Cooking the Chicken

10. **Bake the Chicken**: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The BBQ sauce should be bubbling, and the bacon should be crispy. 11. **Broil for Extra Crispiness**: If you want an extra crispy topping, 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

12. **Remove from Oven**: Once the chicken is cooked and the bacon is crispy, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist. 13. **Garnish**: If desired, sprinkle some fresh cilantro or parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. 14. **Slice and Serve**: Using a sharp knife, slice the chicken breasts into strips or serve them whole. Plate the chicken with some of the pineapple and bacon mixture on top. This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like coleslaw, rice, or a fresh garden salad.

Storing Leftovers

15. **Cool and Store**: If you have any leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. 16. **Reheating**: To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Tips and Variations

17. **Grilling Option**: If you prefer a smoky flavor, you can grill the chicken instead of baking it. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per

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 side of grilled vegetables to balance out the richness of the bacon. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try variations like adding jalapeños for a spicy kick or swapping out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different twist. The possibilities are endless! 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 classic recipe or make your own unique variations, I’m sure you’ll find it to be a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Happy cooking!

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