Short Description

A tropical-inspired grilled chicken sandwich featuring teriyaki-marinated chicken and caramelized pineapple, layered with fresh lettuce, red onion, and optional jalapeño, all nestled in a toasted brioche bun.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold flavors: Sweet teriyaki glaze and caramelized pineapple create a delicious Hawaiian twist
Juicy and tender: Chicken breasts marinated for enhanced taste and tenderness
Quick to prepare: Cook time under 15 minutes after a short marinade
Customizable: Add jalapeños for heat or switch up the sauce to suit your taste

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 pineapple slices
½ cup teriyaki sauce or glaze
2 brioche buns
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
4 lettuce leaves
4 red onion rings
1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

Marinate the Chicken
In a shallow dish or zip-top bag, combine chicken breasts with teriyaki sauce. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, and up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high.
Grill the Chicken
Remove chicken from marinade—let excess drip off. Place on the hot grill and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Grill the Pineapple
Brush pineapple slices lightly with olive oil. Grill for 2–3 minutes per side, until caramelized and slightly charred.
Toast the Buns
Place brioche buns cut-side down on the grill for about 1 minute, until they’re golden and lightly crisp.
Assemble the Sandwich
Spread mayonnaise on the bottom bun. Layer grilled chicken, pineapple, jalapeño slices (if using), red onion rings, and lettuce leaves.
Serve
Top with the second bun half and enjoy immediately.

Servings And Timing

Yields 2 servings (one sandwich per person)
Prep time: ~5 minutes (plus marinating)
Cook time: ~10 minutes
Total time: ~45 minutes (including 30-minute minimum marinade)

Variations

Spicy kick: Swap mayonnaise for spicy aioli or add Sriracha
Cheesy melt: Add a slice of Swiss or pepper jack cheese on the chicken during the last minute of grilling
Avocado twist: Top with sliced avocado or guacamole for creamy richness
Bread swap: Use ciabatta, kaiser rolls, or whole-wheat buns for different textures
Gluten-free option: Serve on gluten-free buns or wraps

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store chicken, buns, and toppings separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days
Reheating: Reheat chicken in a skillet or microwave; toast buns again before assembling
Avoid soggy sandwiches: Keep condiments, lettuce, and onions separate and add just before serving

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes—boneless thighs stay juicy and are less prone to drying out.

What if I don’t have a grill?
Use a grill pan or skillet on the stovetop. Cook chicken and pineapple over medium-high heat, watching for caramelization.

Can I marinate longer than 4 hours?
It’s best not to exceed 4–6 hours, as the teriyaki sauce can start to break down the meat’s texture.

Is it spicy if I skip jalapeño?
No—the sandwich remains mild and sweet without jalapeño slices. Add them if you want heat.

How do I prevent pineapple from sticking?
Brush the grill grates with oil or use a grill pan; this helps prevent sticking and promotes caramelization.

Can I prep this ahead for parties?
Yes—marinate chicken and pre-slice toppings in advance. Grill and assemble just before serving for best taste.

Can I make it creamy without mayo?
Yes—use Greek yogurt, avocado, or a yogurt-based dressing as a healthier alternative.

Is this sandwich freezer-friendly?
Pre-cook and freeze only the chicken. Thaw and reheat before assembling with fresh buns and toppings.

What side dishes go well?
Serve with sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a crisp green salad.

Is it kid-friendly?
Absolutely. Just omit jalapeños and you have a mild, flavorful sandwich kids will love.

Conclusion

Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches are a perfect combination of sweet, savory, and smoky—all in a handheld form. With minimal prep and easy customization, these sandwiches bring a tropical flavor to any meal or gathering. Fire up the grill and enjoy a taste of island-inspired comfort!