Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

These Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a delightful combination of flavors that everyone will enjoy. Perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight meal, these sandwiches feature juicy grilled pineapple, tender chicken coated in sweet and smoky BBQ sauce, crisp lettuce, and zesty red onion. Each bite transports you to a tropical paradise, making them an ideal choice for any occasion.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Sauce
• For the Sandwich Assembly
• For Garnish
• How to Make Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Cook the Chicken
• Step 3: Make the Sauce
• Step 4: Brush on Sauce
• Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwiches
• Step 6: Serve Hot
• How to Serve Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
• Pair with Fresh Sides
• Add Some Crunch
• Make it a Meal
• How to Perfect Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
• Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
• Reheating Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches special?
• Can I use different meats for these sandwiches?
• How do I customize my Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches?
• How do I store leftovers of Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches?
• Can I make Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The sweet and smoky BBQ sauce pairs perfectly with fresh grilled pineapple, creating a mouthwatering taste.
• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, you can have these sandwiches ready in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile Meal Option: Great for lunch or dinner, these sandwiches are also perfect for backyard barbecues or family picnics.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean chicken and fresh vegetables, these sandwiches offer a nutritious meal option without sacrificing flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the fun combination of flavors in this Hawaiian-inspired dish.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or skillet
• Basting brush
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or skillet: Essential for cooking the chicken evenly while adding a delicious charred flavor.
• Basting brush: Helps apply the BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken for maximum flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining ingredients without mess.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping chicken and handling hot ingredients safely.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 large chicken breasts, filleted
• 1 packet KC Masterpiece Sweet Honey BBQ Sauce & Dry Rub

For the Sauce

• 2/3 cup pineapple juice

For the Sandwich Assembly

• 4 slices pineapple, grilled
• 4 slices red onion
• 4 large pieces lettuce
• 4 burger buns

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Rub 2 tablespoons of the dry rub onto both sides of the filleted chicken breasts. This will add a depth of flavor that complements the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Grill or cook the chicken in a greased skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure safety.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the remaining dry rub with the pineapple juice to form a thick sauce. This will give your chicken an extra layer of flavor when brushed on.

Step 4: Brush on Sauce

Once cooked, brush the sauce generously over each piece of chicken. Allow it to soak in for a few moments to enhance flavor.

Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwiches

To assemble each sandwich:
1. Start with a piece of lettuce on the bottom bun.
2. Add a piece of glazed chicken.
3. Top with a grilled pineapple slice and a slice of red onion.
4. Add another piece of lettuce before placing on the top bun.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches hot and enjoy a taste of summer!

How to Serve Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

These Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a quick weeknight meal, serving them with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience.

Pair with Fresh Sides

• Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the sandwich.
• Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a sweet and buttery addition that complements the tropical theme.

Add Some Crunch

• Potato Chips – Serve with a side of crispy potato chips for an easy, satisfying crunch.
• Pickles – Tangy pickles can cut through the sweetness of the BBQ sauce, adding an extra layer of flavor.

Make it a Meal

• Fries – Crispy fries are a classic choice that pairs well with any sandwich, especially when dipped in extra BBQ sauce.
• Fruit Salad – A fresh fruit salad can enhance the tropical vibe and provide a light, sweet counterpart to the savory sandwich.

How to Perfect Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

Perfecting Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches is all about balance and flavor. Here are some tips to ensure your sandwiches turn out delicious every time.

• Marinate the Chicken – For deeper flavor, marinate your chicken in pineapple juice for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Use Fresh Pineapple – Grilling fresh pineapple slices adds a caramelized sweetness that canned options can’t match.
• Don’t Overcook – Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F but avoid overcooking to keep it juicy.
• Customise Your Sauce – Feel free to mix in additional spices or ingredients like garlic powder or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
• Toast Your Buns – Lightly toast the burger buns before assembling to add texture and prevent sogginess from sauces.
• Experiment with Toppings – Try adding jalapeños or avocado for added flavor and texture variations.

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Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

Serving Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches with complementary sides enhances their tropical flair. Here are some excellent side dishes that pair wonderfully.

1. Sweet Potato Fries – These fries offer a sweet twist that pairs perfectly with savory BBQ flavors.
2. Macaroni Salad – A creamy macaroni salad adds richness and balances out the dish nicely.
3. Grilled Veggies – Seasonal grilled vegetables bring color and healthiness to your meal while complementing the sandwich flavors.
4. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf infused with spices can be a great side that absorbs any extra sauce from your sandwiches.
5. Caprese Salad – This fresh salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil adds brightness and acidity to your meal.
6. Cucumber Salad – A light cucumber salad provides crunch and refreshment against the richer elements of the sandwich.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Dry Rub – Not using enough dry rub can lead to bland chicken. Make sure to generously season both sides of your chicken breasts for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the Chicken – Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for juicy results.
• Neglecting the Pineapple – Forgetting to grill the pineapple will miss out on a key flavor component. Always grill until caramelized for that sweet, smoky taste.
• Assembling Incorrectly – Layering ingredients improperly can lead to messy sandwiches. Start with lettuce at the bottom, followed by chicken and toppings, ensuring everything stays put.
• Using Regular Buns – Choosing low-quality buns can affect the sandwich’s overall taste. Opt for sturdy burger buns that can hold up against the juicy fillings.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Separate components if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

• Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F and wrap sandwiches in foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water. Cover and cook for about 5 minutes or until heated through, flipping halfway.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches special?

These sandwiches combine juicy grilled chicken with sweet pineapple and tangy BBQ sauce, creating a flavorful experience that transports you to tropical locales.

Can I use different meats for these sandwiches?

Absolutely! While chicken is traditional, pork or tofu can also work well with the same BBQ sauce and toppings.

How do I customize my Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches?

Feel free to add jalapeños for heat or avocado slices for creaminess. Experiment with different sauces or toppings based on your preference!

How do I store leftovers of Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage. Just follow our storage guidelines above!

Can I make Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the components like grilled chicken and pineapple earlier in the day, then assemble just before serving for fresh flavors.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for any occasion—from summer barbecues to quick weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize your sandwich with your favorite toppings and enjoy this tropical treat!

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