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Easy Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches: Your New Favorite Tropical Comfort Food

5 from 4 votes

Hawaiian Barbecue Chicken Sandwiches

By:

Julia Pacheco

Hawaiian barbecue chicken sandwiches are a delightful fusion of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors. Piled high with tender, juicy shredded chicken on soft, fresh rolls, these sandwiches are incredibly easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a laid-back family meal, a quick weeknight dinner, or a delicious option for entertaining, this recipe promises a taste of the tropics with minimal effort. They are particularly refreshing on a hot day, offering a cool and satisfying meal.

Prep Time:

15

Total Time:

15

Servings:

4
servings

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Craving a taste of the islands without the travel? These Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches bring the vibrant flavors of Hawaii right to your kitchen. Imagine tender, pre-cooked chicken, generously coated in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, then blended with the refreshing burst of crushed pineapple and the mild zest of green onions. All this goodness is nestled within a soft hamburger bun, topped with crisp lettuce, juicy tomato, and sharp red onion for a symphony of textures and tastes. This recipe is not just delicious; it’s incredibly quick, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays or a relaxing weekend lunch.

What makes these sandwiches truly special is the harmonious blend of ingredients. The sweetness from the pineapple perfectly complements the savory barbecue chicken, while the fresh vegetables add a crucial crunch and lightness. It’s a simple concept with big, bold flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to a sun-drenched beach. Plus, using pre-cooked chicken means you can have this meal on the table in just 15 minutes!

Why You Will Love This Hawaiian Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Incredibly Fast: Ready in just 15 minutes, thanks to using pre-cooked chicken.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet pineapple, smoky BBQ, and fresh ingredients creates an unforgettable taste.
Effortlessly Simple: Minimal cooking skills required, just mix and assemble!
Versatile: Easy to customize with your favorite toppings or switch up the protein.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for lunch, dinner, picnics, or feeding a crowd.
Refreshing: Enjoyed cold, it’s particularly satisfying on a warm day.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these fantastic sandwiches. Most of these items are pantry staples, making this recipe even more convenient.

3 cups pre-cooked chicken, diced or shredded. Rotisserie chicken works perfectly here for ultimate convenience.
¾ cup barbecue sauce. Choose your favorite brand, preferably a sweet or smoky variety to enhance the Hawaiian flavor.
¼ cup crushed pineapple. Make sure to drain it well to prevent soggy sandwiches. The pineapple adds a burst of tropical sweetness and tang.
3 sliced green onions. For a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
4 Hamburger buns. Soft brioche or potato buns are highly recommended for the best experience.
Roma tomato, sliced. Adds freshness and juiciness.
Red onion, thinly sliced. For a sharp, crunchy contrast.
Butter lettuce. Or any crisp lettuce for a refreshing crunch.

Easy Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating these Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches is incredibly simple. Just follow these easy steps and you’ll have a delicious meal in minutes!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the 3 cups of pre-cooked diced or shredded chicken. Add the ¾ cup of your favorite barbecue sauce, the ¼ cup of well-drained crushed pineapple, and the 3 sliced green onions. Stir gently but thoroughly until all the chicken pieces are evenly coated with the barbecue sauce and the pineapple and green onions are well distributed. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Assemble the Sandwiches: Take your 4 hamburger buns and lightly toast them if desired for extra texture and warmth, though these sandwiches are traditionally enjoyed cold. Evenly divide the Hawaiian BBQ chicken mixture among the four buns, piling it generously on the bottom half of each bun.
Add Fresh Toppings: Top the chicken mixture with slices of fresh Roma tomato, thinly sliced red onion, and crisp butter lettuce. These fresh vegetables add a refreshing crunch and balance the richness of the chicken. Close the sandwiches with the top halves of the buns.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches immediately. They are particularly delightful enjoyed cold on a hot day, offering a refreshing and satisfying meal. You can also prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and assemble the sandwiches just before serving.

Tips and Variations for Your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

While the basic recipe is fantastic, there are many ways to customize these sandwiches to your liking. Here are some ideas to make them even better or to suit different dietary needs:

Pro Tips for Success:

Drain Pineapple Well: Excess liquid from the crushed pineapple can make your sandwiches soggy. Press out as much juice as possible.
Chill for Flavor: If time allows, let the chicken mixture chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Toast Your Buns: Lightly toasting the hamburger buns adds a nice texture and prevents them from getting too soft from the filling.
Quality BBQ Sauce: The flavor of your BBQ sauce heavily influences the sandwich. Opt for a high-quality sauce that you truly enjoy.

Exciting Variations:

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the chicken mixture for a touch of heat.
Grilled Pineapple: Instead of crushed pineapple in the mixture, grill fresh pineapple rings and add them as a top layer for an elevated, caramelized flavor.
Cheese Please: A slice of melted provolone or Swiss cheese on a toasted bun would add an extra layer of creaminess.
Avocado Creaminess: Slices of ripe avocado or a dollop of guacamole can add a wonderful creamy texture and healthy fats.
Different Greens: Try arugula for a peppery bite or iceberg lettuce for maximum crunch.
Swap the Protein: This recipe works well with shredded pork or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure the protein is pre-cooked and can absorb the sauce.
Make it a Wrap: Serve the Hawaiian BBQ chicken mixture in large lettuce cups or flour tortillas for a lighter option.
Slaw Topping: Instead of separate lettuce, tomato, and onion, top with a quick, creamy coleslaw for extra crunch and tang.

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Your Sandwiches

These Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are quite satisfying on their own, but if you’re looking to create a complete meal, consider these delicious sides:

Crispy Fries: A classic pairing that never disappoints.
Coleslaw: A creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast.
Potato Salad: Another picnic favorite that complements the sandwich well.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Reinforce the tropical theme with a medley of mango, papaya, kiwi, and berries.
Pasta Salad: A light and flavorful pasta salad can be a great addition.
Corn on the Cob: Especially during summer, grilled corn is an excellent choice.

Nutrition

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation. Values may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

Conclusion

These Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches offer an unbeatable combination of speed, ease, and mouth-watering flavor. They are a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal, a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, or just a delightful escape to a tropical paradise, this recipe has got you covered. Give it a try and enjoy the sweet, smoky, and tangy goodness!

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