Grilled Pineapple Chicken Sandwiches

Get ready to elevate your sandwich game with these incredible Grilled Pineapple Chicken Sandwiches! I’ve perfected this recipe to combine juicy grilled chicken, sweet caramelized pineapple, and a tangy sauce that’ll make your taste buds dance. Let me show you how to make these tropical-inspired sandwiches that are perfect for summer grilling or year-round enjoyment.

Ingredients:

• Main Ingredients:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 4 fresh pineapple rings (about ½-inch thick)
  • 4 brioche burger buns
  • 1 cup teriyaki sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 4 slices provolone cheese
  • 1 red onion, sliced into rings
  • 2 cups fresh arugula
• Marinade:
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon ginger paste
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• Pro Tips:
  • Fresh pineapple works best, but canned rings can work in a pinch
  • For dairy-free options, skip the cheese or use plant-based alternatives
  • Gluten-free buns can be substituted for regular brioche

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken (30 mins marinating):
   • Pound chicken breasts to even ½-inch thickness
   • Mix marinade ingredients in a bowl
   • Place chicken in marinade, cover, and refrigerate
   • Pro tip: Don’t marinate longer than 2 hours – the acid can make the chicken mushy
2. Prep the Grill (10 mins):
   • Heat grill to medium-high (around 375°F)
   • Clean and oil grates to prevent sticking
   • Create dual heat zones for better control
3. Grill the Components (12-15 mins):
   • Grill chicken 6-7 minutes per side until internal temp reaches 165°F
   • Add pineapple rings during last 2-3 minutes per side
   • Toast buns for 30 seconds
   • Pro tip: Look for nice grill marks and caramelization on pineapple
4. Assembly:
   • Layer bottom bun with arugula
   • Add grilled chicken and provolone
   • Top with grilled pineapple and red onion
   • Drizzle with teriyaki-honey mixture

Key Details:

🕒 Total Time: 55 mins (Prep: 40 mins | Cook: 15 mins)
🍽️ Servings: 4 sandwiches
🔥 Calories: ~520 per serving
⚙️ Equipment: Grill, meat mallet, mixing bowls, measuring cups, meat thermometer

Pro Tips & Variations:

• Butterfly thick chicken breasts for even cooking
• Pat pineapple rings dry before grilling to achieve better caramelization
• Try adding bacon or avocado for extra flavor
• Spice it up with sriracha or jalapeños

Storage Instructions:

Store components separately:
– Grilled chicken: 3-4 days in refrigerator
– Grilled pineapple: 2-3 days in refrigerator
– Assembled sandwiches: Best eaten immediately
– To reheat: Warm chicken separately in 350°F oven for 10 minutes

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make these sandwiches without a grill?
Yes! Use a grill pan or cast-iron skillet on medium-high heat.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Don’t overcook – use a meat thermometer and remove at 165°F.

Can I prep components ahead of time?
Marinate chicken up to 2 hours ahead. Slice pineapple and onions up to 24 hours in advance.

What sides pair well with these sandwiches?
Sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a light tropical fruit salad complement these perfectly.