Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches

Juicy grilled Hawaiian chicken sandwiches are a delightful treat that brings together succulent chicken, sweet pineapple, and a spicy kick from jalapeños. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, these sandwiches offer a tropical flavor explosion that will impress everyone at your table. With easy preparation and fresh ingredients, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: The marinade can be made ahead of time, making the grilling process quick and simple.
• Flavorful Twist: The combination of pineapple and barbecue sauce creates a sweet and tangy glaze that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these sandwiches with a side salad or chips for a complete meal or enjoy them on their own.
• Healthier Choice: Using reduced-calorie rolls and lean chicken breast makes this sandwich a guilt-free indulgence.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its unique flavors, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these grilled Hawaiian chicken sandwiches, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Small saucepan
• Tongs
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the chicken and pineapple.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining ingredients when preparing the marinade.
• Tongs: Ideal for flipping the chicken and pineapple without losing juices.
• Knife & cutting board: Crucial for slicing vegetables like red onion and jalapeño.

Ingredients

Juicy grilled chicken with pineapple, jalapeño, and homemade barbecue glaze on a soft bun for a tropical flavor explosion.

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast
• 1/3 cup barbecue sauce
• 3 tbsp pineapple juice
• 1.5 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp ginger, minced
• 1/2 tsp Sriracha (optional)

For the Sandwich Assembly

• 1 cup pineapple, sliced
• 4 reduced calorie chicken hamburger rolls
• 1 red onion, sliced
• 1 jalapeno, sliced
• 2 cups mixed greens

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Combine barbecue sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, minced ginger, and Sriracha in a bowl. Place the chicken in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best flavor.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken and Pineapple

Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Lightly spray pineapple slices with cooking spray. Grill the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Grill the pineapple slices alongside until caramelized, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 3: Prepare the Glaze

Transfer any remaining marinade to a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil and simmer for 4-5 minutes until slightly thickened to create a glaze for your sandwiches.

Step 4: Assemble Your Sandwiches

If desired, toast the chicken hamburger rolls. Layer each roll with mixed greens followed by grilled chicken, grilled pineapple slices, sliced red onion, and jalapeño. Drizzle with reduced barbecue glaze before serving.

Enjoy your delicious grilled Hawaiian chicken sandwiches!

How to Serve Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches

Serving Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches is all about enhancing their tropical flavors and making the meal enjoyable. You can customize each sandwich to suit your taste or pair them with delightful sides for a complete meal.

Fresh Toppings

• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and balances the barbecue flavors.
• Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro brightens up the sandwich with herbal notes.
• Lettuce: Crisp lettuce adds crunch and freshness, complementing the grilled chicken.

Sauces and Spreads

• Extra barbecue sauce: For those who love more flavor, drizzle additional barbecue sauce on top.
• Mayo or aioli: A layer of mayo or garlic aioli can enhance creaminess and depth.
• Hot sauce: For spice lovers, a dash of your favorite hot sauce can kick things up a notch.

Plating Ideas

• Serve with skewers: Assemble mini sandwiches on skewers for a fun presentation at gatherings.
• Garnish with lime wedges: Fresh lime wedges add a zesty touch when squeezed over the sandwich before eating.

How to Perfect Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches

Achieving the best results with Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches requires attention to detail. Here are some tips for perfecting this dish:

• Marinate longer: Allowing chicken to marinate overnight intensifies flavor and tenderness.
• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh pineapple and quality barbecue sauce for the best taste.
• Monitor grill temperature: Ensure your grill is heated properly to achieve those beautiful grill marks without drying out the chicken.
• Let it rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest before slicing. This helps retain juices in the meat.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that complement these tropical flavors:

1. Coleslaw: Crunchy and tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the savory sandwich.
2. Sweet potato fries: These offer a sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken.
3. Corn on the cob: Fresh corn brings sweetness and texture, ideal for summer barbecues.
4. Fruit salad: A light fruit salad adds brightness and complements the tropical theme of the meal.
5. Potato salad: Creamy potato salad is a classic side that adds comfort to any BBQ plate.
6. Grilled vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies provide color and nutritional balance alongside your sandwiches.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches, avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to bland flavors. For a juicy and flavorful sandwich, marinate for at least 30 minutes or, ideally, overnight.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for perfectly grilled chicken.

• Neglecting the Pineapple: Failing to grill the pineapple can result in missed flavor. Grilling caramelizes the sugars and enhances its sweetness, adding a delicious contrast to the savory chicken.

• Forgetting About Toasting Rolls: Serving on un-toasted rolls can make your sandwiches soggy. Lightly toast your hamburger rolls for added texture and taste.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality barbecue sauce or chicken can impact flavor. Choose fresh ingredients and a barbecue sauce you love for the best outcome.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your sandwiches in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches

• Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place sandwiches on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place a sandwich on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat. Cover with a lid and warm for about 5 minutes on each side until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different meats for Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option while still enjoying great flavors.

What sides pair well with Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches?

Grilled corn, coleslaw, or a fresh fruit salad complement these sandwiches beautifully, enhancing their tropical theme.

How do I customize my Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches?

Feel free to add toppings like avocado, cheese, or different vegetables such as bell peppers or cucumbers for extra flavor and crunch.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken in advance. Just grill it fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches are not just delicious; they offer a burst of tropical flavors that everyone will love. This recipe is versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or sides! Give it a try at your next gathering; it’s sure to be a hit!