Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Burger (Printable Version)
Tropical chicken burger with grilled pineapple and teriyaki sauce for a burst of island flavor in every bite.
# What You Need:
→ Chicken 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 - 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
→ Teriyaki Sauce
07 - 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
08 - 1/4 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 red onion slices
16 - 4 tomato slices
17 - 2 tbsp mayonnaise (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, olive oil, garlic powder, and black pepper in a bowl. Submerge chicken breasts in the mixture and let marinate for 15 minutes to 2 hours, depending on preferred intensity.
02 - Combine soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, and rice vinegar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and set aside.
03 - Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high temperature, approximately 375°F to 400°F.
04 - Place marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. During the final 2 minutes of cooking, add pineapple rings to the grill and cook until lightly caramelized with grill marks.
05 - Lightly toast burger buns on the grill for 30 to 60 seconds until golden brown and warmed through.
06 - Spread mayonnaise on the bottom bun if desired. Layer lettuce, grilled chicken breast, and drizzle with teriyaki sauce. Add grilled pineapple ring, tomato slice, red onion, and crown with the top bun.
07 - Serve immediately while chicken is hot and pineapple retains its sweetness. Pair with sweet potato fries or crisp salad if desired.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The homemade teriyaki sauce comes together in minutes but tastes like it simmered for hours
- Something magical happens when grilled pineapple meets juicy chicken that nobody can quite explain
02 -
- Pat pineapple rings completely dry before grilling or they'll steam instead of developing those beautiful charred lines
- The teriyaki sauce thickens quickly once you add the cornstarch so have your whisk ready and don't walk away
03 -
- Double the teriyaki sauce and keep it in your fridge for a week because you'll want to put it on everything
- If using canned pineapple, reserve the extra juice and use it in your morning smoothies