Juicy, smoky, and sweet—Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets are a sensational way to bring tropical flair to your dinner table. Wrapped in foil and cooked to perfection, this dish locks in moisture and flavor, combining tender chicken thighs with caramelized pineapple and a tangy barbecue glaze.

Perfect for weeknight meals, backyard barbecues, or even camping trips, these foil packets offer a no-fuss cooking method with minimal cleanup. The interplay between the sweet pineapple and savory chicken makes every bite burst with bold, mouthwatering taste. Plus, it’s a family-friendly favorite that kids and adults alike will devour.
Ingredients for this Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets Recipe
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts if preferred)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)
- 1 can (15 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 red onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Aluminum foil for wrapping

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C). Tear out four large sheets of aluminum foil.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Place each chicken thigh in the center of a foil sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Step 3: Add Toppings
Top each piece of chicken with pineapple chunks, chopped bell pepper, and sliced red onion. Spoon a generous amount of BBQ sauce over the top of each packet.
Step 4: Wrap the Packets
Fold the sides of the foil over the chicken and toppings to seal them into neat packets. Make sure they are sealed well to keep in the juices.
Step 5: Cook
Place the foil packets on the grill or in the oven. Cook for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Serve
Carefully open the packets—watch for steam! Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired. Serve hot and enjoy.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Do not freeze in the foil—transfer contents to a freezer-safe bag or container before freezing for up to 2 months.
Estimated Nutrition
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Sugar: 19g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of BBQ sauce should I use?
Use your favorite BBQ sauce—whether it’s sweet, smoky, spicy, or tangy. Each adds a unique twist to the dish.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work well too. Just be sure not to overcook them as they can dry out more easily than thighs.
Do I have to grill the packets?
Not at all! These can be baked in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for similar results.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Can I prepare these packets ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them a few hours ahead and keep them in the fridge until ready to cook.
What vegetables can I add?
Feel free to include zucchini, snap peas, or even mushrooms for added variety.
Are these good for camping?
Absolutely! They are easy to prep and cook over a campfire or portable grill.
How do I prevent the foil from tearing?
Use heavy-duty foil or double-wrap with standard foil to avoid leaks and tears.

Hawaiian BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This tropical-inspired chicken dish features juicy BBQ-coated chicken thighs paired with sweet pineapple chunks and crisp veggies, all sealed in a foil packet for a tender, flavorful meal that’s perfect for grilling, baking, or even campfire cooking.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
1 cup BBQ sauce
1 can (15 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1/2 red onion, sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)
Aluminum foil
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high or oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lay out four sheets of foil and place a chicken thigh in the center of each.
- Drizzle olive oil on the chicken and season with salt and pepper.
- Add pineapple chunks, bell pepper, and red onion.
- Pour BBQ sauce over the chicken and toppings.
- Fold foil to seal into packets.
- Cook for 20–25 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Open packets carefully, garnish with herbs, and serve.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner