Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Burger (Print)

Tropical chicken burger featuring grilled pineapple, homemade patties with ginger, and tangy barbecue sauce on toasted buns.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Chicken Patties

01 - 1.1 lbs ground chicken
02 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 tbsp soy sauce
05 - 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
06 - 1/2 tsp salt
07 - 1/2 tsp black pepper
08 - 1 tbsp olive oil for grilling

→ Toppings

09 - 4 pineapple rings, fresh or canned, drained
10 - 4 slices cheddar cheese (optional)
11 - 4 lettuce leaves
12 - 1 medium tomato, sliced
13 - 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
14 - 4 tbsp barbecue sauce

→ Buns

15 - 4 burger buns, toasted

# How To Make:

01 - Combine ground chicken, chopped onion, garlic, soy sauce, grated ginger, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
02 - Divide the chicken mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a uniform patty, approximately 3/4 inch thick for even cooking.
03 - Heat grill or grill pan to medium temperature. Lightly brush the cooking surface with olive oil to prevent sticking.
04 - Place patties on the grill and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side until fully cooked through with clear juices. Internal temperature should reach 165°F. If adding cheese, place slice on patties during the final minute and cover to melt.
05 - Grill pineapple rings for 2 minutes per side until lightly caramelized and marked, enhancing their natural sweetness.
06 - Place burger buns cut-side down on the grill for 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown and lightly crisped.
07 - Spread barbecue sauce on the bottom bun. Layer with lettuce, tomato slices, cooked chicken patty, grilled pineapple ring, and red onion. Crown with the top bun and serve immediately.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The caramelized pineapple creates this incredible sweet and salty dance with the savory chicken that nobody expects but everyone immediately understands
  • These burgers transport you to an island mindset without requiring a plane ticket or fancy kitchen equipment
02 -
  • Chicken burgers need to be cooked completely through unlike beef so invest in a good meat thermometer if you make these often
  • The pineapple sweetness can vary wildly so taste it before grilling and adjust your barbecue sauce amount accordingly
03 -
  • Make a small indentation in the center of each raw patty to prevent them from puffing up into balls while cooking
  • Toast the buns cut side down for just thirty seconds to keep them from getting soggy