Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Sandwich Recipe

If you could bottle up a tropical island breeze and tuck it between two buns, the Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Sandwich would be it. This sandwich is the ultimate sweet-and-savory escape, starring juicy marinated chicken, caramelized pineapple, a blanket of melted cheese, and a touch of smoky grilled ham, all nestled inside a pillowy toasted bun. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard bash or just want to treat yourself to a sunny bite on a weeknight, this sandwich is pure happiness in every mouthful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes a Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Sandwich shine is the simplicity of its ingredients, each bringing its own personality to the party. From the tangy teriyaki marinade to the burst of sweet pineapple, these elements build both layers of flavor and color, making every bite a mini celebration.

• Chicken thighs or breasts: Opt for juicy thighs for maximum flavor, but chicken breasts will keep things lean and still deliver great taste.
• Soy sauce: The salty backbone of the marinade, balancing sweetness and deep umami notes.
• Brown sugar: Adds caramel richness and helps achieve those gorgeous grill marks on the chicken.
• Honey: For a velvety sweetness that rounds out the marinade.
• Rice vinegar: Lifts the flavor with just the right amount of tang to brighten each bite.
• Sesame oil: Brings a nutty depth and irresistible aroma to the marinade.
• Garlic powder: A little goes a long way in adding savory backbone.
• Ground ginger: Gives the marinade that classic island warmth.
• Cornstarch + water (slurry, optional): If you love a thicker, glossy sauce, stir this in for perfection.
• Pineapple rings (fresh or canned, grilled): Grilling caramelizes the fruit, making it extra juicy and sweet.
• Swiss or provolone cheese: Melts beautifully over the hot chicken, giving it that ooey-gooey factor.
• Deli ham (optional, Hawaiian-style): Adds a smoky, savory twist that makes each layer extra special.
• Sandwich or brioche buns: Soft, buttery buns are the perfect cradle for these bold flavors.
• Optional toppings (lettuce, red onion, teriyaki mayo): Fresh toppings add crunch and color for the finishing touch.

How to Make Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Sandwich

Step 1: Whip Up the Teriyaki Marinade

Start by making a luscious, flavor-packed marinade. Combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic powder, and ginger in a small saucepan. Let it gently simmer for five to seven minutes, inviting all those sweet and savory notes to mingle. If you love a thicker sauce that hugs every bite, whisk in your cornstarch slurry and simmer until glossy. Let the marinade cool before moving on—this little wait locks in juicy, tasty chicken!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Tuck your chicken thighs or breasts into a ziplock bag or bowl, and pour in half of your shiny teriyaki sauce. Give the chicken a turn or two, making sure every nook and cranny is coated. Let the flavors get to know each other for at least an hour, but overnight is even better if you have time. The rich teriyaki soak transforms ordinary chicken into something extraordinary—trust me, it’s worth the wait.

Step 3: Fire Up the Grill for Chicken and Pineapple

When you’re ready, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Gently lay those marinated chicken pieces onto the heat, grilling for about five to six minutes per side. You’ll know they’re ready by the golden char and irresistible aroma. While the chicken cooks, toss your pineapple rings onto the grill. In just a couple of minutes, you’ll see those classic grill lines and get a whiff of caramelized sweetness that takes this sandwich to the next level.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich

Toast your buns for a few moments until warm and lightly golden. Place your grilled chicken on the bottom bun, and immediately crown it with a slice of Swiss or provolone so the cheese melts into every crevice. Next, layer on a slice of ham for that classic Hawaiian zing, followed by your caramelized grilled pineapple. Drizzle over a bit more teriyaki sauce, then cap everything off with the top bun. Each layer is bursting with flavor, offering a sweet, savory, and smoky taste of paradise.

How to Serve Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Sandwich

Garnishes

To truly make this sandwich pop, sprinkle on a few extra garnishes right before serving. Crisp lettuce or vibrant red onion add a cooling crunch. A swirl of teriyaki mayo kicks up the flavor and adds a sheen of deliciousness. If you want extra flair, a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a few chives brightens up the whole plate.

Side Dishes

Pair your Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Sandwich with classic picnic favorites like salty chips and juicy grapes for the perfect balance of textures and tastes. Fresh fruit salad, sweet potato fries, or a Hawaiian-style macaroni salad are all fantastic companions that echo those tropical vibes. No matter your side, every bite will feel like a true getaway.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting, stack these sandwiches on a big platter lined with pineapple leaves or colorful greens for that “aloha” feeling. Serve each sandwich wrapped in wax paper and tied with twine for an easy, casual touch—perfect for backyard gatherings. For a fun twist, slice the sandwiches into halves or quarters and serve them slider-style at your next party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Sandwich components, store the chicken and pineapple separately from the buns to keep everything fresh. Place the cooled, grilled chicken and pineapple in airtight containers and pop them in the fridge for up to three days. Fresh buns keep best at room temperature, or you can gently toast them again to liven things up.

Freezing

You can freeze the grilled chicken for up to two months—just wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and seal in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture. While pineapple and cheese don’t freeze as well, assembling fresh on the day you serve ensures the most vibrant, juicy bite every time.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or microwave, covered, until just heated through. For the absolute best flavor and texture, you can also reheat chicken and pineapple on the grill or under the broiler for a few minutes. Re-toast the buns so every bite is warm and comforting.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work wonderfully in this Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Sandwich. Just be sure not to overcook them so they stay juicy and tender. A quick marinade and proper grilling will keep those fillets succulent.

Is it possible to make this sandwich ahead of time?

Yes, you can grill the chicken and pineapple in advance and store them separately, assembling the sandwiches just before serving. This makes the Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Sandwich a fantastic meal prep option for lunches or picnics.

How do I get beautiful grill marks on my pineapple?

The secret is to pat the pineapple rings dry before grilling and make sure your grill is hot. Brush the grates lightly with oil and leave the pineapple undisturbed for two to three minutes for those perfect caramelized lines.

Can I make the teriyaki sauce ahead?

Definitely! Prepare the teriyaki sauce up to a week in advance and store it in a sealed jar in the fridge. This not only saves time but also intensifies the flavors, giving your Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Sandwich even more depth.

What’s the best way to prevent soggy buns?

Toast your buns until golden, and consider spreading a thin layer of mayo or butter to create a moisture barrier. This keeps your Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Sandwich perfectly fresh, with every bite as satisfying as the first.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the burst of sweet, savory, and tropical flavors you get from a Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Sandwich. It’s a bite of sunshine whether you’re sharing with friends at a barbecue or enjoying a weeknight treat. Give this recipe a try and bring a taste of the islands right to your kitchen—you just might find yourself craving it all year long!

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