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 dance on your palate. I remember the first time I tried this dish at a summer barbecue, and it instantly became a favorite among my friends and family. The combination of crispy bacon and juicy chicken, paired with the tropical notes of pineapple, creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist.

This dish has roots in the fusion of American and Hawaiian cuisines, showcasing how diverse culinary traditions can come together to create something truly special. People love Bacon Pineapple BBQ Chicken not only for its incredible taste and texture but also for its convenience. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, allowing you to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a staple in your home!

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, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the 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. 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 to add a little extra crispiness to the bacon and caramelization to the BBQ sauce, 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. **Let it Rest**: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and juicy. 13. **Garnish**: Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top for a pop of color and freshness. This adds a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the BBQ sauce and bacon. 14. **Slice and Serve**: Slice the chicken breasts into thick pieces and serve them on a platter. You can drizzle any remaining BBQ sauce from the baking dish over the top for added flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

15. **Side Dishes**: This Bacon Pineapple BBQ Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with: – Grilled corn on the cob – Coleslaw for a crunchy contrast – Rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious BBQ sauce – A fresh garden salad for a light and refreshing side 16. **Storing Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. 17. **Freezing**: You can also freeze the cooked chicken. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before

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, I recommend pairing this dish with a refreshing coleslaw or a light garden salad to balance the richness of the bacon. You could also serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside some grilled vegetables for a complete meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the pineapple for mango or peach for a different fruity twist, or even add some jalapeños for a spicy kick! I truly encourage you to give this Bacon Pineapple BBQ Chicken a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s spread the joy of cooking together! Happy cooking!

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