Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Sandwiches are a tasty mix of sweet and savory flavors with juicy grilled chicken, tangy teriyaki sauce, and a slice of fresh pineapple. The sandwich brings a little tropical sunshine to your lunch or dinner, with soft buns that hold everything together perfectly.
I love making these sandwiches when I want something quick but still full of flavor. The teriyaki sauce is usually the star for me—it’s just right, not too sweet or too salty. Adding the pineapple gives it a juicy, fruity punch that keeps every bite interesting. I find that grilling the chicken gives it just the right smoky taste that pairs perfectly with the sauce.
These sandwiches are great for a casual meal, whether you’re having a backyard cookout or a weekday dinner. I like to serve them with a side of crisp coleslaw or some sweet potato fries to keep the tropical vibe going. They’re easy to make, fun to eat, and always seem to bring smiles around the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: These give you juicy, tender meat for the sandwich. Boneless and skinless works best for even cooking and easy eating. If you prefer, thighs add extra moisture and a bit more flavor.
Teriyaki Sauce: It’s the heart of the flavor—sweet, salty, and packed with umami. Use store-bought for convenience or make your own with soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Low-sodium soy sauce is a good swap for less salt.
Pineapple Rings: Fresh pineapple is ideal for brightness and flavor. Canned works in a pinch—just pick slices packed in juice, not syrup, to avoid too much sweetness.
Sandwich Buns: Soft buns like Hawaiian rolls add a nice touch, but classic burger buns work well too. For a lighter option, try whole wheat or gluten-free buns.
Cheese: Mozzarella or provolone melts well without overpowering. If you want something richer, try Swiss or Monterey Jack. Omit cheese for a dairy-free choice.
Lettuce Mix: A crunchy mix of iceberg, romaine, and cabbage adds texture and freshness. You can also use just one type or add some shredded carrots for extra color.
How Do You Get the Perfect Grill Marks and Juicy Chicken?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but these tips help you nail it every time:
- Heat your grill or pan well before cooking to prevent sticking and get those nice char marks.
- Oil the grill grates or pan lightly—this helps keep the chicken from sticking while cooking.
- Don’t move the chicken too soon. Let it cook on one side for 6–7 minutes to develop color before flipping.
- Brush with teriyaki sauce near the end to avoid burning the sugar in the sauce.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (75°C) is safe and juicy.
- Let the chicken rest a few minutes before assembling. This keeps the juices locked in.
- For pineapple, grill quickly on both sides until caramelized; this adds a sweet, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill or grill pan – perfect for getting those tasty char marks on the chicken and pineapple.
- Tongs – easy to flip the chicken and pineapple without losing the sauce or juice.
- Basting brush – helps you coat the chicken with teriyaki sauce evenly during grilling.
- Sharp knife – necessary for trimming chicken and slicing buns cleanly.
- Cutting board – a safe, stable surface for prepping all your ingredients.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for grilled pork chops or shrimp – both soak up teriyaki sauce well and add variety.
- Try adding sliced avocado for a creamy, fresh texture that balances the sweet sauce.
- Include pickled red onions for a tangy kick and extra crunch in each bite.
- Mix grilled bell peppers or sliced red cabbage with the lettuce for more color and flavor.
Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken & Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or olive oil
For The Sandwich:
- 4 pineapple rings (fresh or canned, drained)
- 4 sandwich buns (burger buns or Hawaiian sweet rolls)
- 4 slices of white cheese (such as mozzarella or provolone)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce mix (iceberg, romaine, and shredded cabbage)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep, including marinating the chicken (at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours if you have time). Grilling and assembling will take roughly 20 minutes. So overall, plan for around 40 minutes including marinating, or less if you marinate ahead.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Put the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a zip-top plastic bag. Pour half the teriyaki sauce over and make sure every piece is covered well. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you have time.
2. Heat the Grill or Pan:
Preheat your grill or grill pan on medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or pan surface with vegetable or olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken from the marinade and let the extra sauce drip off. Season with salt and pepper lightly. Grill the chicken for 6 to 7 minutes on each side until cooked through and nicely charred. During the last few minutes, use a brush to add the remaining teriyaki sauce over the chicken for a delicious glaze. Remove the chicken and keep it warm while you prepare the other ingredients.
4. Grill the Pineapple:
Place pineapple rings directly on the grill. Cook them 2 to 3 minutes on each side until grill marks form and the pineapple is slightly caramelized. Then take them off and set aside.
5. Toast the Buns:
Lightly grill the sandwich buns until they’re golden and warm. This adds a nice crunch and toasty flavor.
6. Assemble Your Sandwich:
Spread mayonnaise on the cut side of each bottom bun. Place a slice of cheese on top, then add a grilled chicken breast. Layer a grilled pineapple ring on the chicken, pile on the shredded lettuce mix, and finally place the top bun on to finish.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Sandwiches immediately, alongside sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or your favorite salad. This sandwich is a wonderful blend of sweet, savory, and fresh flavors in every bite.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts in the refrigerator overnight before marinating and grilling. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay juicy.
Can I Make the Teriyaki Sauce from Scratch?
Absolutely! A simple homemade teriyaki sauce can be made with soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and a splash of rice vinegar or mirin. Simmer the ingredients until slightly thickened for a fresh, tasty alternative.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chicken and sandwich components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken gently on the stove or microwave before assembling fresh sandwiches.
Can I Substitute the Pineapple?
Yes, if you prefer, you can use mango slices or grilled peaches for a different fruity twist that pairs well with teriyaki flavors.
