If you love bold, tropical flavors combined with juicy, savory chicken, this Hawaiian Chicken Sandwich Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Juicy chicken breasts glazed in teriyaki sauce, topped with sweet grilled pineapple, melty Swiss cheese, and crisp lettuce, all nestled between soft, buttery Hawaiian sweet rolls creates a perfect harmony of sweet, salty, and tangy notes. It’s a satisfying treat that feels like a mini vacation with every bite—a simple yet stunning sandwich that’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

Hawaiian Chicken Sandwich Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are refreshingly straightforward yet essential for capturing the essence of this dish. Each component plays a key role: from the tender chicken and sweet pineapple to the soft rolls and creamy mayo, ensuring every bite is balanced and flavorful.

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose thick, even pieces for juicy, tender chicken every time.
4 fresh pineapple slices: Grilling enhances their natural sweetness and adds a delightful caramelized depth.
4 Hawaiian sweet rolls: Their soft texture and subtle sweetness perfectly complement the savory and tangy elements.
4 slices Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a creamy, nutty flavor that ties all the flavors together.
2 tablespoons mayonnaise or aioli: Adds moisture and a creamy tang that balances the sweet and salty notes.
4 lettuce leaves: Offers a crunchy contrast and fresh bite to every mouthful.
2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce: The secret glaze that infuses the chicken with a rich, savory-sweet punch.
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter: For cooking the chicken and toasting the rolls, contributing extra flavor and perfect browning.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that elevate the natural flavors of each ingredient.

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Step 1: Cook and Glaze the Chicken

First, season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat, then cook the chicken for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. As the chicken nears completion, brush on the teriyaki sauce to create a glossy, flavorful glaze that will steal the show.

Step 2: Grill the Pineapple Slices

While the chicken cooks, warm up a separate pan or your outdoor grill. Grill the fresh pineapple slices for 2 to 3 minutes per side until you see beautiful char marks and the fruit caramelizes slightly. This step intensifies the pineapple’s sweetness, balancing the sandwich perfectly.

Step 3: Toast the Hawaiian Rolls

Slice the sweet rolls horizontally and toast them lightly in a pan with a splash of butter. The toasting adds a bit of crispness that contrasts delightfully with the juicy fillings and prevents the rolls from becoming soggy.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches

Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or aioli onto the bottom half of each toasted roll. Add a crisp lettuce leaf, then the teriyaki-glazed chicken breast, a melting slice of Swiss cheese, and finally, top with the grilled pineapple slice. Cap it off with the toasted roll top and press gently to bring all those flavors together.

Step 5: Serve While Warm

To enjoy your Hawaiian Chicken Sandwich Recipe at its finest, slice each sandwich in half if you like, and serve immediately while the cheese is still slightly melted and the chicken warm, inviting you into a delicious tropical experience.

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Garnishes

Add a few extra touches like a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or green onions to brighten the sandwich with a fresh herbal note. A slice of ripe avocado or a drizzle of spicy sriracha mayo can add an exciting twist and even more flavor layers.

Side Dishes

This sandwich pairs brilliantly with crispy sweet potato fries or a light, crunchy coleslaw that can cut through the richness. For a lighter meal option, a fresh tropical fruit salad complements the sandwich’s island-inspired vibe perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, serve these sandwiches open-faced with a juicy grilled pineapple slice perched on top. Alternatively, stack several small sliders on a wooden board for a festive party platter that invites everyone to dig in and enjoy the burst of tropical goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have extra sandwiches, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the pineapple and lettuce separate if you want to avoid sogginess. Leftovers will stay fresh for up to two days.

Freezing

This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh for optimal taste and texture, but you can freeze the cooked chicken breasts before assembling the sandwich. Wrap the cooked chicken individually and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before use.

Reheating

Reheat leftover sandwiches in a skillet over low heat with a lid on, which helps to melt the cheese and warm the sandwich evenly without drying it out. Avoid the microwave to preserve the toasted bread texture and juicy chicken.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of Swiss?

Absolutely! While Swiss cheese melts beautifully and has a mild, nutty flavor, you can swap it for provolone, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar for a different taste profile. Each adds its own unique twist to the sandwich.

Is this Hawaiian Chicken Sandwich Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, with some adjustments. Prepare the components separately and keep the pineapple and lettuce separate until ready to serve. Assemble just before eating to keep everything fresh and crunchy.

Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?

Definitely! Replace the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or a hearty plant-based chicken substitute. Keep the teriyaki sauce and grilled pineapple for that signature flavor combination.

What’s the best way to grill pineapple if I don’t have a grill pan?

If you don’t have a grill pan, a regular skillet will do just fine. Use medium-high heat and cook the pineapple slices for 2 to 3 minutes per side until you see caramelization and fragrant char marks develop.

How can I make this sandwich spicier?

Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning or spread a generous layer of spicy mayo instead of regular mayonnaise. You can also include sliced jalapeños for an extra kick that complements the sweet and savory flavors perfectly.

Final Thoughts

I truly can’t recommend this Hawaiian Chicken Sandwich Recipe enough. The balance of sweet grilled pineapple and savory teriyaki chicken, paired with soft rolls and melty cheese is simply irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself to something special, this sandwich lifts any meal to a joyful, flavor-packed celebration. Give it a try and watch it become an instant favorite in your kitchen!