Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken: A Sweet & Savory One-Pan Wonder

Have you ever walked through your front door after a long day, stomach growling, with zero energy to prepare a complicated meal? We’ve all been there. That’s exactly why this Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken recipe has become my go-to dinner solution. The sweet and tangy flavors of caramelized pineapple combined with smoky BBQ-glazed chicken create a tropical-inspired dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen – when in reality, your sheet pan did most of the work!

This Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. The aroma of sweet pineapple and savory BBQ sauce will fill your kitchen, while the contrast of juicy chicken and caramelized fruit creates a mouthwatering combination that’s absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting a casual weekend gathering, this easy one-pan meal is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken

• ✅ Ready in just 40 minutes – perfect for quick weeknight meals when you need easy Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken recipes
• ✅ One-pan cooking means minimal cleanup after enjoying your Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken
• ✅ Family-friendly Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken that even picky eaters will devour
• ✅ The perfect balance of sweet, tangy and slightly spicy flavors in every bite of Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken
• ✅ Healthy Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken with a good balance of protein and natural sweetness
• ✅ Versatile recipe that works for casual dinners or entertaining guests with impressive Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken

Ingredients for Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken

This tropical-inspired dish combines simple ingredients to create complex flavors. Here’s everything you’ll need to make the best Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken:

• 1 (20-oz.) can pineapple rings, plus 1/2 cup pineapple juice from can
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a more natural option)
• 2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1 tsp. ground mustard
• 3/4 to 1 tsp. cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
• 2 lb. mix of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced
• 1 small jalapeño, sliced (optional for extra heat)

Ingredient Tips and Substitutions:

• For a fresher version, use fresh pineapple rings instead of canned
• Substitute boneless chicken pieces if you prefer, but reduce cooking time by about 10 minutes
• For a gluten-free option, ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free certified
• Looking for a healthier Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken? Try using low-sugar ketchup and coconut sugar

How to Make Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the BBQ Sauce

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the 1/2 cup of reserved pineapple juice, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, ground mustard, and cayenne pepper.
3. Whisk all sauce ingredients together until smooth and well incorporated. Set aside 1/2 cup of sauce for basting later.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up better during roasting.
2. Season chicken generously on both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
3. Place the seasoned chicken pieces on the prepared sheet pan, leaving some space between each piece.

Step 3: Arrange and Bake

1. Arrange pineapple rings around and between the chicken pieces on the sheet pan.
2. Brush the chicken with half of the remaining BBQ sauce mixture (not the reserved portion).
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

Step 4: Baste and Finish

1. After 20 minutes, remove the sheet pan from the oven. The chicken should be partially cooked.
2. Brush the chicken pieces with the remaining BBQ sauce (still not using the reserved portion).
3. Flip the pineapple rings to ensure even caramelization.
4. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is nicely caramelized.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. Remove from the oven and brush the chicken with the reserved BBQ sauce for an extra flavor boost.
2. Let the Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
3. Garnish with sliced scallions and jalapeños (if using).
4. Serve hot with the roasted pineapple rings.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken

Want to elevate your Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken to restaurant quality? Follow these expert tips:

• For extra caramelization: Broil for the final 2-3 minutes to get perfectly charred edges on both the chicken and pineapple
• Maximize flavor: Marinate the chicken in some of the BBQ sauce for 2-4 hours before baking
• Perfect chicken texture: Allow the chicken to come to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking for more even baking
• Enhance the sauce: Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce or 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce for deeper flavor
• Spice it up: For a truly tropical Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken, add 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger to the sauce

Best Ways to Serve Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken

This versatile dish pairs beautifully with many sides. Here are some serving suggestions to complete your meal:

• Serve over fluffy white rice or coconut rice to soak up the delicious sauce
• Add a fresh side salad with a citrus vinaigrette for a light, refreshing contrast
• Pair with roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a complete sheet pan dinner
• Serve with warm tortillas to create tropical BBQ chicken tacos
• Add a side of black beans and plantains for a Caribbean-inspired feast

For a complete tropical meal experience, serve your Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken with a pitcher of pineapple iced tea or tropical punch.

Storage & Leftovers

Your Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken makes excellent leftovers! Here’s how to store and enjoy it later:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well for up to 2-3 months. Freeze the chicken and pineapple separately from any fresh garnishes.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave, but the texture won’t be as good.
• Repurposing leftovers: Shred leftover Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken for sandwiches, wraps, or to top a tropical BBQ pizza!

FAQ About Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken

How long do I bake sheet pan BBQ pineapple chicken?

Bake Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken at 425°F for a total of 35-40 minutes. Start with 20 minutes, then baste and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.

What can I serve with sheet pan BBQ pineapple chicken?

Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken pairs wonderfully with rice, roasted vegetables, coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a simple green salad. For a Hawaiian-inspired meal, serve with coconut rice and a side of macaroni salad.

Can I use frozen chicken for sheet pan BBQ pineapple chicken?

While fresh is best, you can use thawed frozen chicken for Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken. Ensure it’s completely defrosted and pat it dry before cooking to remove excess moisture, which could make your dish watery.

How do I make sheet pan BBQ pineapple chicken healthier?

For a healthier Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, reduce the brown sugar amount, use low-sugar ketchup, and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the sheet pan.

Conclusion

This Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delicious meal that balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors perfectly. With minimal prep and easy cleanup, it’s ideal for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for entertaining. The caramelized pineapple adds a tropical twist that elevates this dish beyond your typical chicken dinner.

Next time you’re craving something flavorful but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, remember this Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken recipe. It’s quick, versatile, and guaranteed to please everyone at your table. Give it a try and let me know how you customized it in the comments below!

Have you made this Sheet-Pan BBQ Pineapple Chicken? Share your photos and tag us on social media! We’d love to see your delicious creations.

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