These Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a delightful combination of flavors, making them perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight meal. Juicy grilled pineapple and tender chicken glazed in sweet and smoky BBQ sauce create a tropical experience that will leave everyone craving more. With fresh ingredients and easy preparation, this sandwich is not just a meal; it’s an experience.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Chicken
- For 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: Glaze the Chicken
- Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwiches
- Step 6: Serve
- How to Serve Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
- For a Casual Gathering
- With Refreshing Sides
- As Part of a Themed 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
- How can I customize my Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches?
- Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
- What sides pair well with Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches?
- Are Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches healthy?
- Can I prepare these sandwiches ahead of time?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: The sweet honey BBQ sauce paired with grilled pineapple delivers a burst of tropical flavor.
- Versatile: Great for summer cookouts, picnics, or casual dinner parties; these sandwiches fit any occasion.
- Customizable: Tailor the toppings to your liking with extra veggies or different sauces to suit your taste.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this fun and delicious twist on a classic chicken sandwich.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making these Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches, gather your essential tools for an efficient cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Basting brush
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or skillet: Essential for cooking the chicken to perfection while adding those lovely grill marks.
- Mixing bowl: Useful for combining the dry rub with pineapple juice to create the flavorful sauce.
- Basting brush: Helps in applying the sauce evenly over the chicken for maximum flavor.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe and convenient surface for preparing your ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts, filleted
- 1 packet KC Masterpiece Sweet Honey BBQ Sauce & Dry Rub
- 2/3 cup pineapple juice
For Assembly
- 4 slices pineapple, grilled
- 4 slices red onion
- 4 large pieces lettuce
- 4 burger buns
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Grill or cook the chicken in a greased skillet over medium heat until fully cooked or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the remaining dry rub with the pineapple juice to form a thick sauce.
Step 4: Glaze the Chicken
Brush the sauce generously over the cooked chicken to infuse it with flavor.
Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwiches
To assemble the sandwiches:
1. Start with a piece of lettuce on the bottom bun.
2. Add the glazed chicken on top.
3. Place a grilled pineapple slice and a slice of red onion on next.
4. Add another piece of lettuce before topping it off with the top bun.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches!
How to Serve Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
These Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are perfect for sharing and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a casual dinner at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
For a Casual Gathering
- Finger Food Style: Cut the sandwiches into smaller portions for easy handling, making them perfect appetizers for parties.
- Buffet Setup: Arrange the sandwiches on a platter with an assortment of toppings and sauces so guests can customize their own.
With Refreshing Sides
- Tropical Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh fruits like mango, kiwi, and watermelon complements the sandwich’s flavors.
- Chips and Salsa: Offer some crunchy tortilla chips with a zesty salsa to add a crunch factor.
As Part of a Themed Meal
- Luau Feast: Serve these sandwiches alongside other Hawaiian dishes like Kalua pork and macaroni salad for an authentic feel.
- Summer Picnic: Pack the sandwiches with cold salads and refreshing drinks for an outdoor meal.
How to Perfect Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
To ensure your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are truly unforgettable, consider these helpful tips. Each step will enhance flavor and presentation.
- Bold seasoning choice: Use plenty of dry rub on the chicken to maximize flavor before grilling.
- Grill the pineapple: This adds caramelization and enhances sweetness, balancing the savory chicken.
- Choose fresh ingredients: Fresh lettuce and onions will provide crunch and enhance the sandwich’s overall freshness.
- Toast the buns: Lightly grilling or toasting the burger buns adds texture and prevents sogginess from the sauce.
- Experiment with sauces: Try different types of barbecue sauces to find your preferred flavor profile for this sandwich.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Pairing side dishes with your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches will create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that complement the tropical flavors perfectly.
- Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds crunch and tanginess that balances the sweetness of the sandwich.
- Potato Salad: This classic side dish is hearty and pairs well with any barbecue meal.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter brings a sweet and smoky flavor that matches perfectly.
- Baked Beans: Their rich sweetness complements the BBQ chicken beautifully while adding protein to your meal.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad provides crispness that contrasts nicely with the warm sandwich.
- Sweet Potato Fries: These offer a sweet alternative to regular fries, enhancing the tropical theme of your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.
- Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to let it soak in the dry rub and pineapple juice for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer and remove the chicken from heat once it reaches 165°F.
- Using Raw Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds a great taste, but grilling enhances its sweetness. Always grill your pineapple slices for the best flavor.
- Neglecting Toasted Buns: Untoasted buns can make your sandwich soggy. Lightly toast your burger buns for added texture and flavor.
- Not Layering Properly: If you don’t layer ingredients correctly, your sandwich might fall apart. Start with lettuce on the bottom for stability.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
- Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat sandwiches on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through, but this may result in a softer bun.
- Stovetop: Place sandwiches in a skillet over medium heat, cover, and heat for 5-7 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions
How can I customize my Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches?
You can add avocado, jalapeños, or even coleslaw for extra crunch and flavor. Feel free to get creative!
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes! You can substitute pork or turkey if you prefer, but cooking times may vary.
What sides pair well with Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches?
Serve with sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a tropical fruit salad for a complete meal.
Are Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches healthy?
They can be part of a healthy diet when made with lean chicken and plenty of veggies. Adjust portions based on your dietary needs!
Can I prepare these sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes! You can grill the chicken and pineapple in advance and assemble them right before serving.
Final Thoughts
These Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are not only packed with flavor but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Don’t hesitate to customize your sandwiches with your favorite toppings!
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Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches offer a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight meal. Juicy grilled chicken is glazed with a luscious honey BBQ sauce and topped with caramelized pineapple, fresh lettuce, and zesty red onions, creating an irresistible tropical experience. Simple to prepare in just 25 minutes, these sandwiches are not only crowd-pleasers but also customizable to suit any taste. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying dinner with family, this recipe promises to impress with its vibrant flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1 packet KC Masterpiece Sweet Honey BBQ Sauce & Dry Rub
- 2/3 cup pineapple juice
- 4 slices grilled pineapple
- 4 slices red onion
- 4 large pieces lettuce
- 4 burger buns
Instructions
- Rub the dry rub onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Grill or cook chicken in a greased skillet over medium heat until fully cooked (165°F).
- In a bowl, mix remaining dry rub with pineapple juice to create a sauce.
- Brush sauce generously over cooked chicken.
- Assemble sandwiches: start with lettuce on the bottom bun, add chicken, grilled pineapple, red onion, another piece of lettuce, and top with the bun.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 90mg