Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Burger (Print version)

Juicy chicken patties with grilled pineapple and barbecue sauce on toasted buns.

# Ingredient List:

→ 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 It:

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 throughout the meat.
02 - Divide the seasoned chicken mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into uniform burger patties, pressing gently to form compact discs that will hold together during grilling.
03 - Preheat grill or grill pan over medium heat. Lightly brush the cooking surface with olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure proper searing.
04 - Place patties on the preheated grill and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side. Cook until fully cooked with clear running juices and internal temperature reaches 165°F. If adding cheese, place a slice on each patty during the final minute of cooking and cover to melt.
05 - While patties cook, place pineapple rings on the grill. Cook for 2 minutes per side until lightly caramelized with visible grill marks.
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 half of each toasted bun. Layer lettuce, tomato slices, cooked chicken patty, grilled pineapple ring, and red onion. Top with the upper bun half and serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The grilled pineapple becomes candylike and balances the savory chicken in ways you didnt expect
  • Everything cooks on one grill, making weeknight dinner feel like a tropical vacation
  • The patties stay juicy thanks to the ginger and onion mixed right into the meat
02 -
  • Ground chicken needs to be cooked completely through, so invest in a good meat thermometer
  • Pat the pineapple rings dry before grilling or theyll steam instead of getting those caramelized grill marks
  • The patties will feel soft compared to beef, which is normal, but they should hold together well
03 -
  • Mix a handful of breadcrumbs into the chicken mixture if the patties feel too loose
  • Warm the barbecue sauce slightly before spreading for easier application