Teriyaki Chicken Burgers With Grilled Pineapple

If you want a refreshing twist on a classic burger this summer, you must try chicken teriyaki burgers that win my heart (and, of course, my taste buds!)! Imagine how mouthwatering the flavorful, juicy chicken patties infused with fragrant garlic, ginger, and a hint of fresh herb, cilantro grilled to perfection, and topped with crisp lettuce and caramelized pineapple. Add the glistening homemade teriyaki glaze and you'll have an addictively delicious teriyaki chicken burger that excites and yet comforts you.

The blend of sweet and savory Japanese teriyaki and the smoky flavor of the burger makes every bite a little vacation for your palate!

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Why You'll Love These Teriyaki Chicken Burgers!

These juicy teriyaki burgers are not just a weeknight treat; they are a flavor-packed experience, and here are the reasons why you'll be coming back to this amazing recipe again and again:

• Packed with flavors - The homemade teriyaki sauce delivers an excellent balance of tangy, salty, and sweet notes.
• Always juicy - The ground chicken stays moist, thanks to the teriyaki glaze.
• A Japanese twist - This Japanese teriyaki burger makes an exciting and fun alternative to the traditional burger.
• Quick and easy - From preparation to plating, you'll enjoy the juicy chicken teriyaki burgers in less than half an hour!

Equipment Needed

• Grill pan or grill
• Small saucepan
• Large mixing bowl
• Tongs or spatula
• Measuring cups or spoons

Key Ingredients

For the Teriyaki Sauce

• Low-sodium soy sauce - This soy sauce is the foundation of any good Japanese teriyaki sauce. Using low-sodium ingredients allows the sauce to be packed with flavor without an overwhelming saltiness.
• Water - It helps balance the sauce and keeps it from being overly concentrated.
• Brown sugar - It adds sweetness and gives the teriyaki glaze its signature caramelized flavor.
• Cornstarch - The secret to making the sauce thicker and transforming it into a glossy coating for your juicy teriyaki burgers.
• Freshly grated ginger - It brings zing and warmth, and it also balances the sweetness with a touch of spice.
• Grated garlic - Adds savory flavor and the unmistakable fragrance of classic teriyaki.
• Red pepper flakes - A small pinch adds just enough heat to keep the sauce lively without overpowering the overall taste.

For the Chicken Patties

• Ground chicken - Tender, lean, and excellent base for soaking up teriyaki flavors, it keeps the burgers light and yet hearty.
• Fresh cilantro - It adds freshness and a note of herbaceous flavor that cuts through the sauces' richness.
• Freshly grated ginger enhances the flavor of the patties, making them perfect with the teriyaki glaze for a cohesive flavor.
• Grated garlic - It gives the chicken savory notes from the inside out.
• Pineapple slices (grilled) - They add a tangy sweet flavor that balances the teriyaki chicken burger.
• Red onion slices (grilled) - They add crunch and mild sweetness, balancing the juicy and tender burger.
• Lettuce - Adds cooling, freshness, and crispness. It provides contrast and structure in every bite.
• Buns - Every burger needs a vessel for eating. Try a traditional bun or even lettuce for a low carb dinner.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Preheat the grill or grill pan to 400°F. Oil the grates well to avoid sticking.

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, water, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes. Mix them well and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until thickened. Remove from the heat and let them cool.

Slice the pineapple and lightly brush each side of the sliced pineapple with teriyaki sauce.

Using a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, fresh cilantro, garlic, ginger, and two tablespoons of cooled teriyaki sauce. Use clean hands to mix and shape into four equal patties.

Place the burgers, pineapple slices, and red onion on the grill. Cook the pineapple and red onion for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side. Burgers will take around 6 minutes each side to cook. Brush the cooked side of the burgers with teriyaki sauce after flipping.

Once the burgers are cooked, brush them with the remaining teriyaki sauce. Assemble them on buns with pineapple, lettuce, and red onion.

Serving Recommendations

These juicy chicken burgers are best enjoyed with:

• Crispy fries, sweet potato fries or roasted baby potatoes
• Crunchy slaw or cucumber and carrot salad.

Make Ahead

You can shape the chicken patties a day ahead and refrigerate them until ready to cook, while you can prepare the teriyaki sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Storage

You may store the cooked burgers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or skillet. Uncooked patties can be frozen; separate them with parchment paper for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.

Did you try this recipe? Please let me know what you think! Leave a comment below, and a 5- star rating. I would love to hear from you! Subscribe Here to get new recipes sent straight to your inbox!