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Flavorful Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Burgers Easy Homemade Recipe with Sesame Slaw

grilled pineapple teriyaki chicken burgers - featured image

Juicy grilled chicken patties glazed with a rich teriyaki sauce, topped with caramelized pineapple rings and crunchy sesame slaw for a tropical twist on a classic burger.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground chicken (preferably lean, 93% lean)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
  • 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • ¼ cup soy sauce (for teriyaki glaze)
  • 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar (for teriyaki glaze)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar (for teriyaki glaze)
  • 1 tbsp water (for teriyaki glaze)
  • 1 tsp grated ginger (for teriyaki glaze)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (for teriyaki glaze)
  • 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp cold water (for thickening teriyaki glaze)
  • 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and sliced into rings
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for caramelizing pineapple)
  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter option)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar (for sesame slaw)
  • 1 tsp honey (for sesame slaw)
  • ½ tsp sesame oil (for sesame slaw)
  • Salt and pepper to taste (for sesame slaw)
  • 4 burger buns (brioche or whole wheat)
  • Butter for toasting buns (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the Teriyaki Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine ¼ cup soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, water, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then stir in the cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp cold water). Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the Chicken Patties: In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, black pepper, salt, and cornstarch. Combine gently. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a ¾-inch thick patty.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high (about 400°F). Lightly oil the grates or pan to prevent sticking.
  4. Grill the Pineapple: Toss pineapple rings with brown sugar if using. Place on the grill and cook 2-3 minutes per side, until caramelized and grill marks appear. Remove and set aside.
  5. Grill the Chicken Patties: Place chicken patties on the grill. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, basting generously with the teriyaki glaze during the last 3 minutes. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  6. Toast the Buns: Butter the burger buns lightly and toast on the grill for 1-2 minutes until golden and slightly crisp.
  7. Make the Sesame Slaw: In a bowl, whisk mayonnaise, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, salt, and pepper until smooth. Toss with shredded cabbage, carrots, green onions, and toasted sesame seeds.
  8. Assemble the Burgers: Spread a little extra teriyaki glaze on the bottom bun, add the grilled chicken patty, top with a grilled pineapple ring, a generous scoop of sesame slaw, and finish with the top bun.

Notes

Do not overmix chicken to keep patties juicy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F. Caramelize pineapple for best flavor. Baste burgers with teriyaki glaze late in cooking to avoid burning. Toast buns lightly for texture. Slaw can be prepared ahead and chilled.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken burger, teriyaki chicken, pineapple burger, sesame slaw, summer cookout, easy chicken recipe, backyard BBQ