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Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches


  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Transport your taste buds to the tropics with these incredibly flavorful grilled chicken sandwiches. Featuring juicy, marinated chicken, caramelized pineapple, and a zesty sauce on sweet Hawaiian buns, they’re perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun gathering.


Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1-inch thick)
  • 1/2 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar (or honey)
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1/2 tsp sesame oil (optional)
  • 4 slices fresh pineapple (about 1/2-inch thick)
  • 4 slices Swiss cheese
  • 4 King’s Hawaiian hamburger buns (or rolls)
  • 4 lettuce leaves (romaine or butter lettuce)
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp BBQ sauce (your favorite sweet & smoky)
  • 1/2 avocado, sliced (optional)
  • Olive oil, for grilling

Instructions

  • 1. Marinate the Chicken: In a shallow dish or zip-top bag, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil (if using). Add chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully coated. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours.
  • 2. Prepare Grill & Sauce: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F). Lightly oil grates. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and BBQ sauce; set aside.
  • 3. Grill Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill chicken for 4-6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and chicken is cooked through with nice grill marks. Let rest for 5 minutes.
  • 4. Grill Pineapple: While chicken rests, place pineapple slices on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until caramelized with grill marks.
  • 5. Toast Buns: Split buns and place cut-side down on the grill for 1-2 minutes, until lightly golden and toasted.
  • 6. Assemble Sandwiches: Spread mayo-BBQ sauce on both halves of each toasted bun. Layer lettuce, grilled chicken, Swiss cheese, grilled pineapple, red onion, and optional avocado slices. Top with the other bun half and serve immediately.
  • Prep Time: 20 mins (plus 30 min - 4 hr marinating)
  • Cook Time: 15 mins