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Hawaiian cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of tropical flavors, influenced by the islands' diverse cultural heritage, including Polynesian, Asian, and American elements. From the sweet and savory notes of fresh fruits to the rich umami of grilled meats, Hawaiian dishes are a celebration of freshness and flavor. One of the most beloved items that exemplify this culinary richness is the BBQ chicken sandwich. Combining tender chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and a medley of toppings, these sandwiches have become a staple at backyard barbecues, beach parties, and casual gatherings.

Delicious Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

Elevate your next gathering with these Tropical Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches! Juicy grilled chicken thighs, sweet caramelized pineapple, and crunchy coleslaw come together on soft Hawaiian rolls for an unforgettable taste of the islands. Perfect for summer cookouts or casual dinners, this recipe is easy to follow and bursting with flavor. Explore how to create this treat that transports you to paradise! #BBQ #HawaiianCuisine #ChickenSandwich #TropicalFlavors #OutdoorCooking #SummerEats #Foodie
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Ingredients
  

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 cup BBQ sauce (preferably Hawaiian-style or teriyaki)

4 hamburger buns (sweet Hawaiian rolls recommended)

1 cup pineapple slices (fresh or canned)

1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced

2 cups coleslaw mix

1/4 cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken thighs with 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for better flavor absorption.

    Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 5-7 minutes per side, until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

      Grill Pineapple: While chicken is grilling, place pineapple slices on the grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side until caramelized and you get nice grill marks.

        Make Coleslaw: In a separate bowl, mix the coleslaw mix with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Toss until everything is well-combined.

          Assemble Sandwiches: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a couple of minutes before slicing it into strips. Toast the hamburger buns lightly on the grill if desired.

            Layer It Up: On each bun, start by adding a generous portion of the coleslaw, followed by the grilled chicken strips, a slice of grilled pineapple, and a few slices of red onion. Drizzle more BBQ sauce over the top if desired.

              Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle with fresh cilantro before closing the sandwich with the other half of the bun. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes such as fries or chips.

                Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 25 mins | Servings: 4