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This pineapple BBQ chicken with bacon combines sweet tropical notes with smoky flavors for a perfect weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts get topped with tangy BBQ sauce, juicy pineapple chunks, crispy bacon, and melty cheese for a dish that's both comforting and impressive with minimal effort.
I created this recipe one night when I needed to breathe new life into our chicken dinner routine. The combination was such a hit that it's now our go-to when entertaining guests who always ask for the recipe before leaving.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Choose thinner cuts for even cooking and quicker bake time
- BBQ sauce: Provides that sweet tangy base flavor opt for low sugar variety for a healthier option
- Fresh pineapple chunks: Adds natural sweetness and tropical flavor look for ripe but firm fruit
- Bacon: Brings salty smoky contrast that balances the sweet elements
- Red onion: Adds a sharp flavor that mellows during baking select firm onions with tight skin
- Mozzarella cheese: Creates that irresistible melty cheesy topping use freshly shredded for best melting
- Green onions: Provides a fresh finish and pop of color choose bright crisp stalks
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the oven and dish:
- Heat your oven to 400°F and prepare your baking dish with a light coating of cooking spray. This temperature is perfect for developing flavor while keeping the chicken moist and tender.
- Season the chicken:
- Place your chicken breasts in a single layer in the baking dish allowing some space between pieces. Season generously with salt and black pepper on both sides to build a flavor foundation.
- Layer the sauce and pineapple:
- Spoon the BBQ sauce evenly over each chicken breast ensuring complete coverage. The sauce will create a glaze as it bakes and help keep the chicken juicy. Next add pineapple chunks distributing them evenly across all chicken pieces.
- Add bacon and onion:
- Sprinkle the cooked diced bacon over the pineapple layer adding that essential smoky flavor. Follow with thin slices of red onion which will soften and sweeten as they bake.
- Top with cheese and bake:
- Cover everything with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and cheese is melted and beginning to bubble.
- Broil and garnish:
- Switch your oven to broil and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes watching carefully until the cheese develops a beautiful golden crust. Remove from oven and top with additional fresh pineapple and sliced green onions for color and freshness.
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The combination of pineapple and BBQ sauce creates magic in this dish. I discovered this pairing years ago at a Hawaiian restaurant and have been incorporating it into home cooking ever since. The sweet acidity of pineapple actually helps tenderize the chicken while adding incredible flavor.
Make Ahead Options
This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble everything except the cheese up to 24 hours ahead of time and refrigerate covered. When ready to cook simply add the cheese and bake adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to account for the chilled ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
This pineapple BBQ chicken pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement without competing. Try serving it with coconut rice steamed broccoli or a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. For a complete meal with Hawaiian vibes consider adding a side of macaroni salad.
Ingredient Swaps
If you dont have fresh pineapple canned chunks work well just be sure to drain them thoroughly. Turkey bacon can replace regular bacon for a lighter option and chicken thighs can substitute for breasts if you prefer darker more flavorful meat. For a dairy free version simply omit the cheese or use a plant based alternative.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple works wonderfully in this dish, adding a bright and natural sweetness.
- → How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F, or when the juices run clear.
- → Can I use a different cheese for this dish?
Absolutely, you can substitute mozzarella with cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- → What side dishes pair well with this meal?
Consider serving this with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients in advance, but bake it fresh for the best texture and flavors.
- → Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.