Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches

Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches are a sweet and savory tropical treat featuring juicy marinated chicken, grilled pineapple, melted cheese, and fresh toppings on a toasted bun. Bursting with island-inspired flavor, these sandwiches are perfect for a summer cookout or an easy weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-Packed: Sweet pineapple and tangy teriyaki chicken make every bite irresistible.
• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep, quick cook time—ideal for weeknights.
• Grill-Friendly: Great for outdoor grilling or a stovetop grill pan.
• Crowd Favorite: A fun twist on a classic chicken sandwich that pleases adults and kids alike.
• Make-Ahead Marinade: Prep the chicken the night before for even more flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup teriyaki marinade or sauce
• 4 slices pineapple (fresh or canned)
• 4 slices Swiss or provolone cheese
• 4 hamburger or brioche buns
• Lettuce leaves
• Sliced red onion
• Mayonnaise or desired spread
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions

this recipe

1. Marinate Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour in teriyaki marinade, seal, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
2. Prep the Grill: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
3. Grill Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade, season with salt and pepper, and grill 6–7 minutes per side or until cooked through (internal temp of 165°F/74°C).
4. Grill Pineapple: Place pineapple rings on the grill and cook 2–3 minutes per side until caramelized and grill marks appear.
5. Toast Buns & Melt Cheese: During the last minute of grilling, place buns on the grill to toast. Add cheese to the chicken to melt slightly.
6. Assemble Sandwiches: Spread mayo or your favorite sauce on the toasted buns. Layer with lettuce, grilled chicken with melted cheese, grilled pineapple, and red onion.
7. Serve: Serve warm with your favorite sides like sweet potato fries or coleslaw.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 sandwiches
• Prep Time: 10 minutes (+ marinate time)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes (plus marinate time)

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add sliced jalapeños or sriracha mayo.
• Bacon Boost: Add a strip or two of crispy bacon for a smoky flavor.
• Different Cheese: Use pepper jack or cheddar for a twist.
• Veggie Option: Substitute with grilled portobello mushrooms or a plant-based chicken patty.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store grilled chicken and pineapple separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm chicken in a skillet over medium heat until heated through; reassemble with fresh toppings.
• Freezing: Freeze grilled chicken alone, tightly wrapped, for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, just be sure to drain it well before grilling.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Definitely—boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great and are often juicier.

How do I keep the chicken juicy?

Don’t overcook it; remove as soon as it hits 165°F internally.

What sauces go well with this sandwich?

Teriyaki mayo, garlic aioli, or a creamy sriracha sauce all pair well.

Can I make these sandwiches in a pan?

Yes, a stovetop grill pan or skillet works just fine if a grill isn’t available.

Are these sandwiches kid-friendly?

Very! Omit spicy additions for a more mild, kid-approved version.

What are the best buns to use?

Brioche or Hawaiian rolls add a slight sweetness that complements the flavors.

Can I meal prep these?

Yes, marinate and grill the chicken ahead, then reheat and assemble sandwiches as needed.

What sides go best with this?

Coleslaw, grilled corn, fries, or even a fresh fruit salad.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—this recipe scales easily for feeding a crowd.

Conclusion

Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches are a tropical twist on the classic sandwich, full of vibrant flavor and easy to make. With juicy grilled chicken, sweet pineapple, melty cheese, and fresh toppings all on a toasted bun, they’re sure to be a hit at your next cookout or family dinner.

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