This is one of those recipes that turns heads and satisfies cravings. I wanted to create something sweet, smoky, spicy, and fresh—and these BBQ Chicken Pineapple “Burgers” absolutely deliver.

Instead of a traditional bun, I grill thick pineapple rings and sandwich tender barbecue chicken, crunchy slaw, and spicy mayo between them. It’s tropical, messy, and ridiculously good.

Imagine sinking your teeth into a sweet and savory combination of grilled pineapple and succulent chicken, all topped with a crunchy shredded coleslaw mix tossed in a tangy dressing of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey.

The addition of sriracha gives it a little kick, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

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Here’s Why You’ll Love My BBQ Chicken Pineapple “Burgers”

These burgers are juicy, bold, and beautifully balanced. The sweet grilled pineapple pairs perfectly with sticky BBQ chicken, while the creamy slaw adds crunch and the spicy mayo brings just enough heat.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or serving up something fun on the patio, this recipe brings that “wow factor” summer food should have.

BBQ Chicken Pineapple Burgers

If you’re seeking a fresh spin on classic burgers, BBQ Chicken Pineapple Burgers are an enticing choice.

Instead of traditional buns, these burgers feature thick pineapple rings that cradle boneless, skinless chicken thighs marinated in a rich barbecue sauce.

This delightful combination delivers a taste of the tropics, making it an ideal summer dish.

Picture biting into juicy chicken, glistening with barbecue sauce, topped with vibrant coleslaw.

The crunchy texture of the shredded coleslaw mix, combined with a tangy dressing of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and a hint of sriracha, adds a zesty kick to every bite.

This dish is not only flavorful but also a lighter option for a hot day.

Preparing the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

This blend infuses the chicken with smoky and savory notes. Aim to let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, although a longer marination can enhance the flavor even further.

Resting the chicken allows it to absorb all the delicious ingredients, ensuring each bite is satisfying.

Once marinated, grill the chicken on medium-high heat for about 6-8 minutes on each side.

The goal is to achieve a beautifully cooked piece of chicken that remains juicy and tender inside while obtaining a nice grill mark outside.

Grilling the Pineapple

While the chicken is on the grill, it’s time to add another layer of flavor with thick pineapple rings.

Grilling the pineapple enhances its natural sweetness, creating a caramelized exterior that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken.

A quick 2-3 minutes on each side should suffice to achieve the desired char and warmth.

The golden pineapple rings not only contribute to the burger’s taste but also add a vibrant aesthetic that enhances its appeal.

This tropical element brings a refreshing twist that complements the smoky barbecue flavors wonderfully.

Creating the Coleslaw

The coleslaw serves as a crunchy and colorful topping for the burgers. Combine shredded coleslaw mix with a dressing made from mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, lime juice, and sriracha.

This combination balances sweetness with acidity, creating a lively contrast to the BBQ chicken.

Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure every piece of cabbage is coated in the tangy dressing. Set it aside while you prepare the burgers, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Assembling the Burgers

Now comes the fun part: assembly! Start with a thick grilled pineapple ring, place a perfectly grilled chicken thigh on top, and generously pile on the prepared coleslaw.

Top it off with another pineapple ring for an eye-catching and delicious burger.

These pair perfectly with sweet potato fries, grilled corn, or a chilled cucumber salad. For drinks, try iced tea, lemonade, or even a tropical mojito or pineapple margarita.

For dessert, fresh fruit skewers or frozen banana pops will keep the tropical vibes going.

Enjoying the Experience

Not only do these burgers taste incredible, but they also present beautifully on a plate, making them perfect for sharing with friends and family.

The vibrant colors, the combination of flavors, and the outdoor cooking experience all contribute to a memorable meal.

Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply looking for a fun dinner option, BBQ Chicken Pineapple Burgers with their juicy chicken and tangy coleslaw will be a hit.

Get ready to impress with this delightful dish that brings a taste of summer to your table.

Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken Pineapple “Burgers”

  • Use thick-cut pineapple rings so they hold together well when grilled.
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  • Pat the pineapple dry before grilling to get better caramelization.
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  • Use boneless chicken thighs for juicier results, but breasts work too.
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  • Assemble just before serving so the pineapple “bun” stays firm.
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  • Serve with toothpicks or wrap in parchment for easier handling.
BBQ Chicken Pineapple Burgers with Pineapple Slices
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BBQ Chicken Pineapple Burgers with Pineapple Slices

Recipe by JoanneCourse: MainCuisine: American / Tropical FusionDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

burgers
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time

15

minutes
Calories per burger

430

kcal

This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Each burger is a delightful blend of sweet and spicy, where the smoky notes from the paprika and the savory richness of garlic powder elevate the chicken’s flavor, while the pineapple adds a refreshing sweetness.

Ingredients

  • For the Chicken

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)

  • One-half cup barbecue sauce

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • One-half teaspoon smoked paprika

  • One-fourth teaspoon garlic powder

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • For the “Buns”

  • 8 thick pineapple rings (from 1 large fresh pineapple)

  • For the Slaw

  • 1 and a half cups shredded coleslaw mix

  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise

  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon honey

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • For the Spicy Mayo

  • One-fourth cup of mayonnaise

  • 1 tablespoon sriracha or hot sauce

  • 1 teaspoon lime juice

Directions

  • Prep the Chicken
  • In a bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss chicken pieces in the mix and grill over medium-high heat for 6 to 7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Brush BBQ sauce over the chicken during the last 2 minutes of grilling. Remove and let rest.
  • Grill the Pineapple
  • Pat the pineapple rings dry with paper towels. Grill for 2 to 3 minutes per side until grill marks appear. Set aside.
  • Make the Slaw
  • In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Toss with coleslaw mix and chill until serving.
  • Make Spicy Mayo
  • Whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth. Set aside.
  • Assemble the “Burgers”
  • Place a grilled pineapple ring on a plate, add a portion of coleslaw, top with BBQ chicken, drizzle with spicy mayo, then cap with another grilled pineapple ring. Serve immediately with a skewer through the center for stability.

Notes

  • Want to make it low-carb? Skip the slaw and go for avocado slices instead.
  • You can use canned pineapple in a pinch, but fresh will hold up better on the grill.
  • These are also great as mini sliders—just cut pineapple rings in half and use chicken tenders.

Storage & Reheating

  • Storage: Store chicken, pineapple, and slaw separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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  • Reheat: Warm chicken and pineapple in a skillet or grill pan before assembling. Do not microwave the pineapple—it becomes soggy.
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  • Reassemble fresh each time for the best texture and presentation.