If you’re craving a delicious blend of tropical flavors and crispy goodness, the Crispy Hawaiian Chicken Sandwich is the perfect choice for you! This mouthwatering sandwich combines Crispy Hawaiian Chicken Sandwich Recipe with the sweet and tangy taste of pineapple, topped with a rich Hawaiian sauce. Inspired by island flavors and the love for comfort food, this sandwich offers a unique twist on the traditional chicken sandwich. It’s an ideal choice for a family dinner, a casual lunch, or even to impress your guests at a weekend BBQ.
Whether you’ve tried the Crispy Hawaiian Chicken Sandwich at Dave and Busters or you’re just looking for something new, this homemade version will satisfy your cravings and leave you coming back for more. Let’s dive into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and a few tips to make it your own!
Crispy Hawaiian Chicken Sandwich Recipe Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Hawaiian Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon pineapple juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
For Assembly:
- 4 sandwich buns (brioche or Hawaiian buns are ideal)
- 4 pineapple rings (fresh or canned)
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- Lettuce (optional, for crunch)
- 4 slices of bacon (optional)
- Sliced red onion (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting buns)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken breasts to infuse them with flavor and keep them tender. Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag and pour in the buttermilk. Add hot sauce if you like a bit of spice. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 12 hours for maximum flavor. The buttermilk marinade will make the chicken moist and tender, a crucial step for that perfect bite!
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. In a separate dish, beat the eggs. In a third dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should reach around 350°F (175°C) for frying. Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove from the oil and let the chicken drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 4: Grill the Pineapple and Toast the Buns
While the chicken is frying, grill your pineapple rings either on a grill or in a grill pan for about 2 minutes per side, until they are slightly caramelized. Set them aside.
Butter the sandwich buns and toast them in a skillet or on the grill until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Make the Hawaiian Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, and Dijon mustard until smooth. This sauce provides the sweet and savory punch that makes the sandwich truly special.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich
To assemble your Crispy Hawaiian Chicken Sandwich, start with the toasted bun bottom. Spread a generous amount of the Hawaiian sauce on each bun. Place the crispy fried chicken on top, followed by a slice of Swiss cheese, a grilled pineapple ring, and crispy bacon if using. Add lettuce, red onion, and any other desired toppings, and then finish with the bun top.
Serve immediately with a side of fries, sweet potato chips, or even a fresh tropical salad.
Tips and Variations
Tips for Perfect Crispiness:
- Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is at the right temperature before frying. Too cold, and the chicken will be soggy; too hot, and it will burn before cooking through.
- Double Dip: For extra crunch, dip the chicken in the egg and breadcrumb mixture twice before frying.
- Let It Rest: After frying, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the breading to firm up and stay crispy.
Variations:
- Grilled Hawaiian Chicken and Pineapple Sandwich: For a lighter option, skip the frying and grill the chicken breasts along with the pineapple. Brush the chicken with a Hawaiian marinade made of soy sauce, pineapple juice, and a touch of honey before grilling.
- Chicken Pineapple Sandwich Spread: Instead of using grilled pineapple, mash up canned pineapple into the Hawaiian sauce for a spreadable topping.
- Spicy Version: Add sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the Hawaiian sauce for an extra kick.
Substitutions:
- Chicken: Swap the chicken for crispy tofu or grilled portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Buns: Gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps can be used for a gluten-free option.
- Swiss Cheese: Substitute with Monterey Jack, cheddar, or even pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 690 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Protein: 42g
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
- Sodium: 1050mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 12g
The Crispy Hawaiian Chicken Sandwich is a delightful fusion of crunchy, savory, and sweet flavors. Whether you’re grilling it up for a summer cookout or frying it for a weekend treat, this recipe brings the tropical vibes right to your plate. With easy-to-follow steps, a variety of customization options, and ingredients that pack a punch of flavor, this sandwich is a hit for all ages.