Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Burger (Printer-friendly)
Tropical grilled chicken sandwich with pineapple and teriyaki sauce for a burst of island flavor.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Chicken and Marinade
01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 5 oz each)
02 - 2 tbsp soy sauce
03 - 2 tbsp pineapple juice
04 - 1 tbsp olive oil
05 - 1 tsp garlic powder
06 - ½ tsp ground black pepper
→ Teriyaki Sauce
07 - ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
08 - ¼ cup pineapple juice
09 - 2 tbsp brown sugar
10 - 1 tbsp rice vinegar
11 - 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water
→ Burger Assembly
12 - 4 pineapple rings (fresh or canned, drained)
13 - 4 burger buns
14 - 4 lettuce leaves
15 - 4 slices red onion
16 - 4 slices tomato
17 - 2 tbsp mayonnaise (optional)
# How-To Guide:
01 - Combine soy sauce, pineapple juice, olive oil, garlic powder, and black pepper in a bowl. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 15 minutes, up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor.
02 - In a small saucepan, mix soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, and rice vinegar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened. Set aside.
03 - Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
04 - Grill marinated chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F). During the last 2 minutes, grill pineapple rings until lightly caramelized.
05 - Lightly toast burger buns on the grill.
06 - Spread mayonnaise on the bottom bun if desired. Layer with lettuce, grilled chicken breast, drizzle with teriyaki sauce, top with grilled pineapple ring, tomato, red onion, and finish with the top bun.
07 - Serve immediately while warm.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The homemade teriyaki sauce comes together in minutes and puts store bought versions to shame
- Grilling the pineapple transforms it into something caramelized and extraordinary
02 -
- Dont skip marinating the chicken even 15 minutes makes a dramatic difference in flavor and moisture
- The teriyaki sauce thickens quickly once it cools so dont overcook it or itll become too gloppy
03 -
- Pat the pineapple rings dry before grilling to encourage better caramelization
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling so the juices redistribute