1. Prepare the BBQ Sauce (if making from scratch)

Start by making the BBQ sauce. This extra step really brings the dish to life, and it’s easy!

• In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder.
• Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld.
• Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. Set it aside once it’s done.

2. Prepare the Chicken

• If you’re using boneless chicken breasts, lightly pound them to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly. If you’re using bone-in pieces, that’s okay—just adjust your cooking time accordingly.
• Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This is a simple step that helps enhance the natural flavor of the chicken before it soaks up all the BBQ goodness.

3. Make the Pineapple BBQ Marinade

• In a small bowl, combine the crushed pineapple, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and fresh ginger. Stir it all together.
• Take the seasoned chicken and place it in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the pineapple mixture over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated.
• Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes. If you have more time, marinate it for 30-60 minutes for even more flavor!

4. Grill the Chicken

While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using an indoor grill or stovetop, heat a pan over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil.

• Once the grill is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill.
• Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side (for boneless, skinless chicken breasts) or 10-12 minutes per side (for bone-in pieces). Flip the chicken only once to get those beautiful grill marks.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you’re using bone-in pieces, make sure the juices run clear.

5. Add the BBQ Sauce

• About 5 minutes before the chicken is fully cooked, brush a generous layer of your homemade BBQ sauce over the chicken. Allow it to cook for a few minutes, just until the sauce gets nice and bubbly.
• If you’re using store-bought sauce, this is when you’d brush it on. You can also add a little more pineapple on top at this stage to give it a fresh pop of sweetness.

6. Rest the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked through, take it off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your chicken stays juicy and tender.