Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches
Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches offer a tropical and savory combination of tender chicken breasts, caramelized fresh pineapple, Swiss cheese, and a tangy spread on soft buns. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe brings island flavors to your table with easy customization options and a perfect balance of textures.
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling and Pan-searing
- Cuisine: Hawaiian / Tropical
- Diet: Can be adapted to Gluten Free (with gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps)
Proteins and Main Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 fresh pineapple slices
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
Vegetables & Greens
- Thinly sliced red onion (about ¼ cup)
- Leaf lettuce (4 leaves)
Condiments & Sauces
- Mayonnaise or aioli, about 2 tablespoons per sandwich
- Teriyaki sauce, approximately ¼ cup for glazing
Cooking Fats & Seasonings
- Olive oil or butter, for grilling (about 1-2 tablespoons)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Prepare the Chicken: Lightly season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill or pan-sear them over medium heat until cooked through and golden brown on the outside, ensuring the inside is juicy and fully cooked.
- Grill the Pineapple: Brush the fresh pineapple slices with a little olive oil and place them on the grill or skillet. Cook each side until caramelized and slightly charred to bring out sweetness and smokiness.
- Melt the Cheese: Place a slice of Swiss cheese over each hot chicken breast just before removing them from the heat, allowing the cheese to melt slightly and add creamy richness.
- Toast the Buns: Lightly butter the hamburger buns and toast them cut side down on a skillet or grill until golden brown and warm, which adds crunch and helps prevent sogginess.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread mayonnaise or aioli on the toasted buns. Layer with fresh lettuce, the melted cheese chicken breast, grilled pineapple slices, and thinly sliced red onions. Top with the bun crown and press gently to hold the sandwich together.
Notes
- Use fresh pineapple slices for best flavor and caramelization instead of canned pineapple.
- Do not overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Customize the spread by mixing mayonnaise with sriracha or honey mustard for added flavor.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
- Add extra crunch by including sliced cucumber or pickles if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Hawaiian chicken sandwich, tropical sandwich, grilled pineapple sandwich, sweet savory sandwich, quick chicken sandwich