Hawaiian Chicken Burgers: The Ultimate Tropical Burger Recipe

Hawaiian chicken burgers: just the name conjures up images of sun-drenched beaches, swaying palm trees, and the sweet, tangy aroma of a luau, doesn’t it? Forget your usual boring weeknight dinner because these burgers are about to transport your taste buds to paradise! I’m so excited to share this recipe with you because it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and honestly, who can resist a juicy burger loaded with tropical flavors?

While not a traditional Hawaiian dish in the strictest sense, the combination of grilled pineapple, teriyaki glaze, and often, a hint of ginger or soy sauce, draws heavily from the culinary influences of the islands. The fusion of Asian and Polynesian flavors is a hallmark of Hawaiian cuisine, reflecting the diverse cultural heritage of the islands. This particular burger recipe captures that spirit perfectly.

People adore Hawaiian chicken burgers for their delightful balance of sweet and savory. The grilled pineapple adds a burst of juicy sweetness that complements the savory chicken patty, while the teriyaki glaze provides a rich, umami depth. The texture is also fantastic – the tender chicken, the slightly charred pineapple, and the soft bun create a symphony of sensations in every bite. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to make, making them perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun weekend barbecue. Get ready to experience a taste of the tropics with every delicious bite!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken Patties:
• 2 lbs ground chicken
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup finely diced red onion
• 1/4 cup finely diced green bell pepper
• 1/4 cup finely diced yellow bell pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Grilled Pineapple:
• 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rings
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• For the Teriyaki Glaze:
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons cold water
• For the Hawaiian Burger Assembly:
• 6 Hawaiian sweet rolls, split
• 6 slices Swiss cheese
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• Optional toppings: avocado slices, crispy fried onions

Preparing the Chicken Patties:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, red onion, green bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped cilantro.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, cumin, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Pour the wet ingredients over the chicken mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Gently mix all the ingredients together with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough.
5. Divide the chicken mixture into 6 equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty about 3/4-inch thick.
6. Place the patties on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the patties to firm up. This will help them hold their shape during cooking.

Preparing the Grilled Pineapple:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat. If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
3. Brush both sides of the pineapple rings with the olive oil mixture.
4. Place the pineapple rings on the preheated grill.
5. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the pineapple is slightly softened and caramelized. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
6. Remove the grilled pineapple from the grill and set aside.

Making the Teriyaki Glaze:

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry.
4. Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
5. Continue to simmer the sauce for 1-2 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
6. Remove the teriyaki glaze from the heat and set aside.

Cooking the Chicken Burgers:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Alternatively, you can cook the patties in a skillet on the stovetop.
2. Lightly oil the grill grates or skillet to prevent sticking.
3. Place the chicken patties on the preheated grill or in the skillet.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the patties are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
5. During the last minute of cooking, brush the patties generously with the teriyaki glaze.
6. Place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of each patty and allow it to melt slightly.
7. Remove the chicken burgers from the grill or skillet and set aside.

Assembling the Hawaiian Burgers:

1. Lightly toast the Hawaiian sweet rolls, if desired.
2. Spread mayonnaise on both halves of each roll.
3. Place a bed of shredded lettuce on the bottom half of each roll.
4. Top with a glazed chicken patty with melted Swiss cheese.
5. Add a grilled pineapple ring on top of the cheese.
6. Add any optional toppings, such as avocado slices or crispy fried onions.
7. Place the top half of the roll on top and serve immediately.

Conclusion:

So there you have it! These Hawaiian chicken burgers are truly a taste of paradise, and I genuinely believe they’re a must-try for anyone looking to add a little sunshine to their meal. The combination of juicy, flavorful chicken, sweet pineapple, and tangy teriyaki sauce is simply irresistible. It’s a burger that’s both satisfying and refreshing, perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy weeknight dinner.

But why are these burgers so special? It’s more than just the ingredients; it’s the experience. Each bite transports you to a tropical island, with the sweet and savory flavors dancing on your tongue. The chicken stays incredibly moist, thanks to the careful preparation and the addition of pineapple juice. And that teriyaki glaze? It’s the perfect finishing touch, adding a glossy sheen and a burst of umami that ties everything together.

Beyond the basic recipe, there’s so much room for customization! Feel free to experiment with different toppings. I love adding a slice of crispy bacon for a smoky contrast, or a dollop of creamy avocado for extra richness. For a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture or a drizzle of sriracha mayo.

Serving Suggestions:

* Serve these Hawaiian chicken burgers on toasted brioche buns for a soft and buttery texture.
* Pair them with a side of sweet potato fries or a refreshing coleslaw.
* For a lighter option, serve the chicken patties on lettuce wraps instead of buns.
* Consider adding a grilled pineapple ring directly on top of the burger for an extra burst of tropical flavor.
* Don’t forget the drinks! A fruity cocktail or a cold glass of iced tea would be the perfect complement.

Variations:

* For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or a thick slice of grilled pineapple.
* If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought teriyaki sauce, but I highly recommend making your own for the best flavor.
* Try using different types of cheese, such as provolone or Swiss, for a unique twist.
* Add some chopped macadamia nuts to the chicken mixture for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
* Make mini sliders for a fun and easy appetizer.

I’m confident that you’ll love these Hawaiian chicken burgers as much as I do. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to impress your family and friends. So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen and give this recipe a try!

I’m so excited to hear what you think! Once you’ve made these burgers, please come back and leave a comment below. Let me know what variations you tried, what toppings you added, and how much you enjoyed them. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me create even better recipes for you in the future. Happy cooking, and aloha!