Description

These Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Sandwiches are a delicious fusion of smoky grilled chicken and sweet, tangy pineapple rings, enhanced by a flavorful marinade and melted provolone cheese. Perfect for a summer cookout or a satisfying weeknight dinner, these sandwiches deliver a tropical twist on a classic grilled chicken sandwich.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Marinade

2 6-ounce boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Juice from 8-ounce can pineapple rings (or fresh pineapple), patted dry
2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

For Grilling and Serving

8 ounces pineapple rings (from can or fresh), patted dry
4 slices provolone cheese
4 buns or kaiser rolls
1/4 cup mayonnaise

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of 1 inch if they are larger. Then slice each chicken breast in half to create 4 pieces total. Season evenly with coarse salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the pineapple juice, low sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Place the chicken pieces into this marinade and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
Preheat the Grill: Prepare your grill by heating it to medium-high heat. Oil the grill grates well to prevent sticking during cooking.
Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken pieces on the grill. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes total, flipping halfway through to ensure even grilling. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). During the last 3 minutes of grilling, add a slice of provolone cheese on top of each chicken piece so it melts beautifully.
Grill the Pineapple Rings: While the chicken grills, place the pineapple rings on the grill as well. Grill them halfway through cooking the chicken, turning once to get perfect grill marks and a caramelized flavor.
Assemble the Sandwiches: Lightly spread mayonnaise on each bun or kaiser roll. Layer with a grilled chicken breast topped with melted provolone cheese and a grilled pineapple ring.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the sandwiches immediately while warm, enjoying the delicious combination of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors.

Notes

Marinating the chicken overnight enhances flavor and tenderness but if short on time, marinate for at least 1 hour.
Using fresh pineapple rings is an excellent alternative to canned, adding freshness and juiciness.
Grill grates should be well oiled to prevent chicken and pineapple from sticking.
Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer for safe consumption.
For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the marinade.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Sandwiches
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Hawaiian chicken sandwich, grilled chicken sandwich, pineapple chicken, summer sandwich, grilled sandwiches, tropical chicken sandwich