These juicy teriyaki chicken burgers are quick, easy, and full of flavor. They are topped with grilled pineapple, charred red bell pepper, and a sweet homemade teriyaki sauce without refined sugar. My favorite weeknight dinner recipe!
If you're looking for a chicken burger that actually delivers on flavor, this is the one to make. I’ve been making these for years, and they’ve consistently been a reader favorite for a reason.
These aren’t your average chicken burgers. They’re topped with juicy grilled pineapple and smoky red bell peppers, then smothered in a quick homemade teriyaki sauce made with real ingredients and no added sugar. It’s the same sauce I use in my teriyaki chicken meal prep bowls, so you know it’s a keeper.
Whether you grill, air fry, or cook them on the stove, these burgers turn out perfectly every time. It’s an easy, flavorful, healthy dinner made with simple, wholesome ingredients.
Why you'll love this recipe:
- Quick and easy: These teriyaki chicken burgers come together in just 20 minutes, making them the perfect go-to for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-packed: Made with fresh ginger, garlic, and a homemade teriyaki sauce, every bite is sweet, savory, and super satisfying.
- Healthy and high protein: Each burger has 26 grams of protein and is made with simple, wholesome ingredients you can feel good about.
The ingredients
Ground Chicken. I recommend using 94% lean ground chicken for the juiciest burgers, but leaner options work too. Just be mindful not to overcook them.
Egg. The egg helps bind everything together, ensuring the patties hold their shape while cooking.
Breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed). These add structure and keep the burgers moist without being too heavy.
Scallions (green onions). They give the burgers a mild onion flavor and a fresh kick that balances the richness of the chicken.
Garlic Cloves and Fresh Ginger. Fresh garlic and ginger bring out the best in the teriyaki flavor, making these burgers extra savory.
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce. It’s key for both the burger mixture and the teriyaki sauce, giving everything that savory depth without too much salt.
Pineapple. Fresh pineapple caramelizes beautifully on the grill, but canned works in a pinch if that’s what you’ve got on hand.
Red Bell Pepper. Adds a bit of crunch and natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory burger and pineapple.
Lettuce. A fresh layer of lettuce adds a nice crunch and helps balance the juicy, flavorful burger.
Buns. Choose your favorite burger buns. Brioche, whole wheat, or gluten-free options all work great.
Pineapple Teriyaki Sauce. You can use homemade or store-bought teriyaki sauce. If you go with store-bought, look for one with natural ingredients and no added sugar to keep the flavors balanced.
Scroll to the bottom of this page for all the measurements.
Step-by-step instructions on how to make teriyaki chicken burgers
These easy teriyaki chicken burgers take less than 20 minutes to make. Here's how:
Step One: Mix ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, scallions, garlic, ginger, and soy sauce in a bowl. Be careful not to over-mix!
Step Two: Grill the pineapple and red bell pepper until caramelized.
Step Three: Form the chicken mixture into four patties. Make sure the grill or grill pan is hot and greased before adding the burgers.
Step Four: Grill them for 4-5 minutes per side until fully cooked.
Step Five: Meanwhile, whisk together the teriyaki sauce ingredients in a saucepan. Do this before adding heat.
Step Six: Bring to a rapid boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until thickened.
Step Seven: Finally, coat each burger with the teriyaki sauce. Let the burgers rest for 5 minutes so they are extra juicy.
Step Eight: Assemble the burgers with grilled pineapple, bell pepper, and lettuce on toasted buns. Enjoy!
Top tips
- Don't Overmix the Chicken Mixture: Gently combine the ingredients to keep the patties tender. Overmixing can make them dense and tough.
- Use Fresh Ginger and Garlic: Freshly grated ginger and minced garlic bring the best flavor to both the burgers and the teriyaki sauce.
- Use Fresh Pineapple: Fresh pineapple brings out the best flavor and sweetness. If you use canned pineapple, be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Grater (for ginger)
- Knife and cutting board
- Skillet, grill, or air fryer
- Spatula
- Small saucepan (for teriyaki sauce)
- Measuring Cups
Substituions & Variations
- Make it Gluten-Free: Simply use gluten-free buns, gluten-free bread crumbs, and Tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Protein Options: Use ground turkey or lean beef for a different protein option.
- Breadcrumbs: Swap with oat flour or almond flour for a gluten-free option.
- Scallions: Yellow or red onions can be used if scallions aren't available.
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos are great gluten-free substitutes.
- Homemade Teriyaki Sauce: For a quicker option, use store-bought teriyaki sauce, but look for one without added sugars.
- Make them spicy: For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the burger mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat the patties with cooking spray and place them in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren't overcrowded. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This method yields juicy burgers with a slightly crisp exterior.
Absolutely! You can use store-bought teriyaki sauce to save time. For a healthier option, make sure it's free of added sugars.
These teriyaki chicken burgers pair perfectly with a crisp side salad, like a kale salad or orzo salad, for a refreshing balance. You can also serve them with roasted vegetables, such as balsamic Brussels sprouts or sweet potato fries, for a savory touch. If you're in the mood for something heartier, pair them with quinoa or a side of garlic bread. For a lighter option, serve with fresh fruit or a simple cucumber salad.
To make these burgers gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs, tamari sauce (a gluten-free soy sauce alternative), and gluten-free buns.
The burgers are done when their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure they're cooked through.
Storage & Meal Prep
Storing: Leftover teriyaki chicken burgers (without buns) can be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: To freeze, wrap each burger in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 45-90 seconds or in the air fryer at 350°F for 4-6 minutes until warm. Add buns and toppings as desired.
More easy dinner recipes with teriyaki sauce!
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Did you make this recipe?
Remember to leave a review and let me know how it turned out! Also, tag me @healthfulblondie on Instagram with #healthfulblondie. I love seeing and sharing your creations!
📖 Recipe
Teriyaki Chicken Burgers
Ingredients
Burgers:
- 1 lb ground chicken, preferably 94% lean
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup breadcrumbs, gluten-free if needed
- ⅓ cup thinly sliced scallions
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 4-8 slices of pineapple, fresh or canned
- 1 medium red bell pepper, de-seeded and cut into rings
- 4 buns of your choice
- Lettuce leaves
Pineapple Teriyaki Sauce:
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce, or tamari if gluten-free
- ¼ cup pineapple juice or orange juice
- 2 tablespoon cold water
- 2 teaspoon arrowroot starch or cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 - 2 tablespoon honey
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil
- ¾ - 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, scallions, garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. Be careful not to over-mix, or the burgers will get tough.
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into patties about ¾-inch thick.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and coat with non-stick spray. Grill the pineapple rings and red bell pepper slices for 2-3 minutes per side, until tender and lightly caramelized.
- Grill the burger patties for 4-5 minutes on each side, until fully cooked.
- Meanwhile, make the teriyaki sauce: In a saucepan, combine all sauce ingredients (without heat). Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce to medium-low and simmer for 4-5 minutes, whisking frequently until thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Drizzle olive oil on the buns and toast them cut-side down on the grill or in a pan until golden, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Coat each cooked burger with the teriyaki sauce, adding as much as you like.
- Assemble the burgers: Place the sauced patty on the toasted buns, top with grilled pineapple, red bell pepper, and lettuce. Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
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Saskia Chermayeff says
such a delicious combination! I would never have thought that pineapple would pair so nicely with the burger, but it did!!!
Emily Richard says
The is such a fantastic recipe. My whole family REALLY LOVED THEM + the burgers are really juicy and light. I never named my own teriyaki sauce before and didn’t know it was so easy! I’ll be making this again!
Tati Chermayeff says
I am so happy to hear this Emily!! Wow, you made my day.
Mi3piphany says
Oh my goodness! I typically don't like mixing sweet with salty, but it really does look mouthwatering! L'll have to try it out!
On another note, your site is beautiful!
Tati Chermayeff says
I am so excited to hear what you think!!! Thank you so much 🙂