Grilled Chicken Pineapple Sliders: A Tropical Twist on a Classic!
These Grilled Chicken Pineapple Sliders are a surefire hit for any barbecue, potluck, or casual weeknight dinner. Juicy grilled chicken, sweet and tangy grilled pineapple, melted cheese, and a flavorful sauce all nestled in soft slider buns – what’s not to love? This recipe is easy to follow, customizable, and guaranteed to transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these miniature masterpieces!
Why You’ll Love These Sliders
* **Flavor Explosion:** The combination of savory chicken, sweet pineapple, and tangy sauce creates a delightful explosion of flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
* **Easy to Make:** This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any fancy equipment or complicated techniques.
* **Customizable:** Feel free to adjust the ingredients and toppings to your liking. Swap out the cheese, add some jalapeños for a kick, or use a different sauce – the possibilities are endless!
* **Perfect for Sharing:** Sliders are the ideal party food. They’re easy to eat, portion-controlled, and always a crowd-pleaser.
* **Grill-Friendly:** Embrace the summer vibes with this grilled recipe that’s perfect for outdoor cooking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a comprehensive list of ingredients you’ll need to create these delicious grilled chicken pineapple sliders:
* **Chicken Breasts:** 1.5-2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Look for breasts that are relatively uniform in thickness for even cooking.
* **Pineapple:** 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings or chunks. Canned pineapple rings (in juice, *not* syrup) can be used as a substitute, but fresh is highly recommended for the best flavor and texture.
* **Slider Buns:** 12-18 slider buns. Choose your favorite type – Hawaiian rolls, brioche buns, or even pretzel buns work well.
* **Cheese:** 6-9 slices of your favorite cheese. Options include provolone, Monterey Jack, Swiss, or cheddar. For a spicier kick, try pepper jack.
* **Soy Sauce:** 1/4 cup. Forms the base of the marinade and adds umami.
* **Brown Sugar:** 2 tablespoons, packed. Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken during grilling.
* **Garlic:** 2 cloves, minced. Provides aromatic flavor.
* **Ginger:** 1 teaspoon, grated. Adds a subtle warmth and spice.
* **Sesame Oil:** 1 teaspoon. Enhances the flavor profile with its nutty aroma.
* **Rice Vinegar:** 1 tablespoon. Adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness.
* **Sriracha:** 1 teaspoon (or more, to taste). Provides a spicy kick.
* **Lime Juice:** 1 tablespoon, fresh. Brightens the flavors and adds acidity.
* **Olive Oil:** 1 tablespoon. Used for brushing the grill and the pineapple.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste. Essential for seasoning.
* **Optional Toppings:** Lettuce, tomato, red onion, avocado, coleslaw.
Equipment You’ll Need
* **Grill:** A gas grill or charcoal grill will work. Make sure the grates are clean and oiled.
* **Grilling Tongs:** Essential for safely handling the chicken and pineapple on the grill.
* **Mixing Bowls:** For marinating the chicken and preparing the sauce.
* **Cutting Board and Knife:** For preparing the pineapple and other ingredients.
* **Basting Brush:** For brushing the pineapple with oil.
* **Thermometer:** A meat thermometer is crucial for ensuring the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
* **Small Saucepan (Optional):** If you prefer to heat your sauce on the stove.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect Grilled Chicken Pineapple Sliders:
**1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade:**
* In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sriracha, and lime juice.
**2. Marinate the Chicken:**
* Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
* Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be. However, avoid marinating for longer than 4 hours, as the acid in the marinade can start to break down the chicken’s texture.
**3. Prepare the Pineapple:**
* If using fresh pineapple, peel, core, and cut it into rings or chunks about 1/2 inch thick. If using canned pineapple rings, drain them well.
* Lightly brush the pineapple with olive oil. This will help prevent it from sticking to the grill and enhance its caramelization.
**4. Preheat the Grill:**
* Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-450°F).
* Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
**5. Grill the Chicken:**
* Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
* Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill.
* Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts. It’s crucial to use a thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
**6. Grill the Pineapple:**
* Once the chicken is almost done, add the pineapple rings or chunks to the grill.
* Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they have nice grill marks and are slightly softened. Grilling the pineapple brings out its natural sweetness and adds a delicious smoky flavor.
**7. Let the Chicken Rest:**
* Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing or shredding. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
**8. Slice or Shred the Chicken:**
* After the chicken has rested, slice it thinly or shred it with two forks.
**9. Assemble the Sliders:**
* Lightly toast the slider buns, if desired. This adds a nice texture and prevents them from getting soggy.
* Place a layer of sliced or shredded chicken on the bottom bun.
* Top with a slice of cheese and grilled pineapple.
* Add your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, red onion, or avocado.
* Spread some of the prepared sauce on the top bun (see sauce options below).
* Place the top bun on the slider and serve immediately.
Sauce Options
The sauce is a crucial element that ties all the flavors of these sliders together. Here are a few delicious options to choose from:
* **Teriyaki Mayo:** Combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional). This is a classic combination that complements the chicken and pineapple perfectly.
* **Spicy Pineapple Sauce:** Combine 1/2 cup crushed pineapple (drained), 2 tablespoons sriracha, 1 tablespoon lime juice, and 1 teaspoon soy sauce. This sauce offers a sweet, spicy, and tangy kick.
* **Honey Mustard:** Combine 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon mayonnaise. This sauce provides a classic sweet and tangy flavor.
* **BBQ Sauce:** Use your favorite store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce. This adds a smoky and savory element to the sliders.
* **Creamy Avocado Cilantro Sauce:** Combine 1 ripe avocado, 1/4 cup cilantro, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 tablespoon sour cream or Greek yogurt, and a pinch of salt. This sauce adds a creamy and refreshing element.
Tips for Success
* **Don’t Overcook the Chicken:** The key to juicy chicken is to avoid overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough.
* **Marinate for Flavor:** Marinating the chicken allows it to absorb the flavors of the marinade, resulting in a more delicious and flavorful slider. However, don’t marinate for too long, as the acid in the marinade can break down the chicken’s texture.
* **Use Fresh Pineapple (If Possible):** Fresh pineapple has a superior flavor and texture compared to canned pineapple. If you can find it, opt for fresh.
* **Clean and Oil the Grill:** Clean grill grates will prevent the chicken and pineapple from sticking. Oiling the grates further reduces the risk of sticking and helps create beautiful grill marks.
* **Toast the Buns (Optional):** Toasting the buns adds a nice texture and prevents them from getting soggy. However, this is optional, so feel free to skip this step if you prefer soft buns.
* **Assemble Right Before Serving:** For the best results, assemble the sliders right before serving. This will prevent the buns from getting soggy and ensure the ingredients are fresh.
* **Get Creative with Toppings:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings to create your own unique sliders. Lettuce, tomato, red onion, avocado, coleslaw, and jalapeños are all great options.
Variations and Substitutions
* **Chicken Thighs:** Substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
* **Turkey Burgers:** Use ground turkey instead of chicken for a leaner option.
* **Vegetarian Option:** Use grilled halloumi cheese or thick slices of portobello mushrooms instead of chicken.
* **Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free slider buns.
* **Spicy:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade or sauce for a spicier kick. You can also use a spicier hot sauce.
* **Sweet:** Add more brown sugar to the marinade for a sweeter flavor.
* **Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack, Swiss, or cheddar.
* **Different Buns:** Use Hawaiian rolls, brioche buns, or even pretzel buns instead of standard slider buns.
Serving Suggestions
These Grilled Chicken Pineapple Sliders are a complete meal on their own, but you can also serve them with a variety of sides, such as:
* **Coleslaw:** A classic side dish that complements the sweetness of the pineapple.
* **Potato Salad:** Another classic barbecue side that pairs well with the savory chicken.
* **Corn on the Cob:** A summer favorite that’s perfect for grilling.
* **Macaroni Salad:** A creamy and comforting side dish.
* **Fruit Salad:** A refreshing and healthy side that balances the richness of the sliders.
* **Sweet Potato Fries:** A delicious alternative to regular fries.
* **Chips and Dip:** A simple and easy side dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Make-Ahead Tips
* **Marinate the Chicken:** You can marinate the chicken up to 4 hours in advance.
* **Prepare the Pineapple:** You can cut the pineapple into rings or chunks and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
* **Make the Sauce:** You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
* **Shred the Chicken:** You can grill and shred the chicken a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently before assembling the sliders.
Storage Instructions
* **Leftover Chicken:** Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Leftover Pineapple:** Store leftover grilled pineapple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Assembled Sliders:** Assembled sliders are best eaten immediately. If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, but be aware that the buns may become soggy.
Recipe Card
**Yields:** 12-18 sliders
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Marinating Time:** 30 minutes – 4 hours
**Cook time:** 15-20 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 1.5-2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings or chunks
* 12-18 slider buns
* 6-9 slices of your favorite cheese (provolone, Monterey Jack, Swiss, cheddar)
* 1/4 cup soy sauce
* 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
* 1 teaspoon sesame oil
* 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
* 1 teaspoon sriracha (or more, to taste)
* 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional toppings: Lettuce, tomato, red onion, avocado, coleslaw
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken Marinade:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sriracha, and lime juice.
2. **Marinate the Chicken:** Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
3. **Prepare the Pineapple:** If using fresh pineapple, peel, core, and cut it into rings or chunks about 1/2 inch thick. Lightly brush the pineapple with olive oil.
4. **Preheat the Grill:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-450°F). Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled.
5. **Grill the Chicken:** Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. **Grill the Pineapple:** Once the chicken is almost done, add the pineapple rings or chunks to the grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they have nice grill marks and are slightly softened.
7. **Let the Chicken Rest:** Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing or shredding.
8. **Slice or Shred the Chicken:** After the chicken has rested, slice it thinly or shred it with two forks.
9. **Assemble the Sliders:** Lightly toast the slider buns, if desired. Place a layer of sliced or shredded chicken on the bottom bun. Top with a slice of cheese and grilled pineapple. Add your favorite toppings. Spread some of the prepared sauce on the top bun. Place the top bun on the slider and serve immediately.
**Sauce Options:**
* **Teriyaki Mayo:** Combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional).
* **Spicy Pineapple Sauce:** Combine 1/2 cup crushed pineapple (drained), 2 tablespoons sriracha, 1 tablespoon lime juice, and 1 teaspoon soy sauce.
* **Honey Mustard:** Combine 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon mayonnaise.
Enjoy!
These Grilled Chicken Pineapple Sliders are a delicious and easy way to add a tropical twist to your next barbecue or weeknight dinner. Enjoy the combination of savory chicken, sweet pineapple, and tangy sauce, all nestled in soft slider buns. Don’t forget to get creative with your toppings and sauce options to create your own personalized sliders! Happy grilling!