Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

These Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a tropical delight that combines juicy grilled pineapple, tender chicken, and sweet BBQ sauce. Perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight meal, this sandwich brings vibrant flavors to your table, making it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

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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 Sandwiches
• For Garnish
• How to Make Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Cook the Chicken
• Step 3: Make the BBQ Sauce Mix
• Step 4: Brush on Sauce
• Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwiches
• Step 6: Serve Hot
• How to Serve Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
• Pair with Fresh Salads
• Enjoy with Chips or Fries
• Add Extra Toppings
• How to Perfect Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
• Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
• Reheating Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches spicier?
• Can I use different types of meat?
• What sides pair well with Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches?
• How can I customize my Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal effort and just 25 minutes of your time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet honey BBQ sauce and grilled pineapple creates a deliciously unique taste.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy these sandwiches at lunch or dinner, or serve them during summer cookouts and picnics.
• Healthier Choice: With lean chicken and fresh veggies, this sandwich is satisfying without being heavy.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the fun and fruity twist on classic BBQ flavors.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches, you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or skillet
• Basting brush
• Small bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or skillet: Provides even cooking for the chicken and allows for the perfect sear on the pineapple.
• Basting brush: Helps evenly coat the chicken with the delicious BBQ sauce mix.
• Knife: Essential for slicing the chicken, pineapple, and onions accurately.
• Cutting board: Offers a clean surface for prep work while protecting your kitchen counters.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Sandwiches

• 2 large chicken breasts, filleted
• 1 packet KC Masterpiece Sweet Honey BBQ Sauce & Dry Rub
• 2/3 cup pineapple juice
• 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 adds flavor right from the start.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Grill or cook the chicken in a greased skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure it’s safe to eat.

Step 3: Make the BBQ Sauce Mix

In a small bowl, mix the remaining dry rub with the pineapple juice to form a thick sauce. This will add a sweet and tangy glaze over your chicken.

Step 4: Brush on Sauce

Once cooked, brush the prepared sauce generously over each piece of chicken. Allow it to soak in for extra flavor.

Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwiches

To build your sandwich, start with a piece of lettuce on the bottom bun. Add the glazed chicken, followed by a grilled pineapple slice, a red onion slice, another piece of lettuce, and finally top it with the bun.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Enjoy these Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches hot. They’re perfect for sharing with friends or savoring solo!

How to Serve Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

These Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a casual weeknight dinner, these sandwiches can be easily paired with different sides and accompaniments.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet BBQ flavors.
• Tropical Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh fruits like mango, pineapple, and kiwi enhances the tropical vibe.
• Cucumber Salad: Light and crisp, this salad offers a nice balance to the richness of the sandwich.

Enjoy with Chips or Fries

• Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness complements the BBQ chicken perfectly.
• Kettle-Cooked Chips: For an extra crunch, serve these savory chips on the side.
• Plantain Chips: These bring a unique flavor that pairs well with the Hawaiian theme.

Add Extra Toppings

• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado can elevate your sandwich to another level.
• Spicy Mayo: A drizzle of spicy mayo adds a kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.

How to Perfect Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

To ensure your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are nothing short of amazing, follow these essential tips for perfecting your dish.

• Bold seasoning: Make sure to use enough dry rub on the chicken for maximum flavor. The spices should really penetrate the meat.
• Juicy chicken: Avoid overcooking the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F for moist results.
• Grill marks: For that classic grilled taste, cook on a hot grill or skillet to get those beautiful sear marks and enhance flavor.
• Fresh ingredients: Use fresh pineapple and crisp lettuce for added texture and taste. Freshness makes all the difference!
• Toast buns: Lightly toast your burger buns before assembly. This adds a delicious crunch and prevents sogginess from the sauce.
• Experiment with sauces: Feel free to customize your sauces. Adding some sriracha or teriyaki can give it an exciting twist.

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Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

Complementing your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches with suitable side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here’s a list of great options to consider:

1. Macaroni Salad: A creamy macaroni salad is a classic choice that pairs well with BBQ flavors.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, corn on the cob adds sweetness that’s perfect alongside these sandwiches.
3. Potato Salad: A tangy potato salad provides richness that balances well with the lightness of the sandwich.
4. Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans make for a hearty side that meshes beautifully with BBQ chicken.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers grilled add healthy color and flavor.
6. Rice Pilaf: A light rice pilaf can absorb any extra sauce from your sandwich while adding texture to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches from good to great. Here are key pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using frozen chicken: Always use fresh chicken breasts for the best texture and flavor. Thawing frozen chicken can lead to uneven cooking.
• Skipping the dry rub: The dry rub adds crucial flavor to the chicken. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the sweetness and smokiness of the BBQ sauce.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cook the chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough, ruining your sandwich experience.
• Neglecting grill marks on pineapple: Grilling pineapple adds a delicious caramelization. Ensure you grill them until they have golden marks for extra flavor.
• Choosing the wrong buns: Soft burger buns are ideal for this sandwich. Avoid overly dense or crusty bread that won’t complement the juicy filling.

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

• Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store them in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Wrap sandwiches in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place sandwiches on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 30-60 seconds.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the sandwich and cover with a lid, cooking for about 5 minutes on each side until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches spicier?

You can add jalapeños or a spicy BBQ sauce to give your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches an extra kick.

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with pork or beef, but adjust cooking times accordingly for best results.

What sides pair well with Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches?

Consider serving these sandwiches with coleslaw, potato salad, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.

How can I customize my Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches?

Feel free to add toppings like avocado, cheese, or different types of lettuce based on your preferences.

Final Thoughts

These Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for summer cookouts or quick dinners, you can customize them with your favorite toppings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the tropical flavors that will surely impress family and friends!

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