Grilled Chicken Pineapple Burger

# What you'll need:

→ Chicken & Marinade

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

03 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce, gluten-free

04 - 1 tablespoon honey

05 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

06 - 1 garlic clove, minced

07 - ½ teaspoon salt

08 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper

→ Pineapple & Vegetables

09 - 4 fresh pineapple rings, ½-inch thick

10 - 1 red onion, sliced into rings

11 - 1 large tomato, sliced

12 - 1 avocado, sliced

13 - 4 large leaves romaine or butter lettuce

→ Optional Toppings

14 - 4 slices cheddar or Swiss cheese, optional

15 - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or aioli

16 - 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped

# Method:

01 - Whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, smoked paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor development.

02 - Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high temperature. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

03 - Place marinated chicken breasts on grill and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F and grill marks form. During the final 2 minutes, top with cheese slices if desired and allow to melt.

04 - Grill pineapple rings for 2 to 3 minutes per side until caramelized and golden. Grill red onion rings for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and lightly charred.

05 - Layer lettuce leaf on each plate as the base. Top sequentially with grilled chicken breast, caramelized pineapple ring, grilled onion, tomato slices, and avocado. Drizzle with mayonnaise or aioli and garnish with fresh herbs.

06 - Present burger stacks as prepared, or accompany with toasted bun on the side for optional assembly by diner.

# Expert Advice:

01 -

The pineapple caramelizes into something almost candy-like while the chicken stays incredibly tender, creating this sweet-savory magic that feels way fancier than it actually is.
It's naturally gluten-free and low-carb if you skip the bun, so you're eating something truly nourishing without feeling like you're missing out.

02 -

Don't skip the marinade step even if you're in a rush—those 15 minutes make the difference between chicken that tastes like chicken and chicken that tastes like something special.
Pineapple burns quickly and unevenly, so keep your eyes on it and flip when you see the first hint of caramelization rather than waiting for it to be brown all over.

03 -