Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Flatbread

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

Grilled chicken meets sweet pineapple, bold barbecue sauce, and plenty of cheese for a flavor-packed flatbread. After mixing a quick homemade rub, the chicken is grilled to perfection, then sliced and scattered over flatbread brushed with tangy barbecue sauce. Each flatbread is topped with a generous layer of cheese, juicy pineapple, and crisp red onion before baking until perfectly melted and golden. Finished with fresh cilantro and a final drizzle of sauce, this dish combines savory, smoky, and sweet flavors for a satisfying meal everyone will enjoy. Serve in wedges for a crowd-pleasing meal or appetizer.

Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Thu, 19 Jun 2025 23:31:41 GMT
A pizza with chicken and pineapple toppings. Save
A pizza with chicken and pineapple toppings. | lilicooks.com

Sweet smoky and a little tangy these Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Flatbreads bring together bright pineapple juicy grilled chicken and melty cheese for a weeknight dinner that always disappears fast. The balance of sweet fruit and bold barbecue sauce in every slice just feels like summer on a plate and never fails to satisfy a crowd or picky kids.

The first time I made this flatbread I was craving pizza but wanted something fresh and lighter without all the fuss. It quickly became my go to for backyard parties and quick weekend dinners and always reminds me of warm evenings on the patio.

Ingredients

  • Chicken tenders or boneless skinless chicken breasts: Choose quality chicken for best flavor and juicy bites I like to use organic or free-range if possible
  • Brown sugar: This adds sweetness to the chicken rub and helps it caramelize as it grills Try to use fresh soft brown sugar so it melds with the spices
  • Chili powder: A touch of heat and rich depth Look for a chili powder with a fresh smell and rich color
  • Cumin: Adds earthy warmth Use whole cumin seeds and grind them if you want an even deeper flavor
  • Garlic powder: For savory punch Choose a fine powder for good distribution
  • Onion powder: Sweet and mild depth Fresh aromatic powder works best
  • Smoked paprika: Gives a hint of smoky BBQ wheelhouse Spanish style smoked paprika is bold and aromatic
  • Salt: Essential for bringing out every layer of flavor Sea salt or kosher salt coats the chicken really evenly and enhances taste
  • Flatbreads: A sturdy base that crisps perfectly Choose thick soft flatbreads that toast well I love Stonefire brand for texture
  • Cheese: Melty and gooey goodness Mozzarella melts best but a blend with Monterey Jack or cheddar adds sharpness
  • Barbecue sauce: Sweeter tangier sauces work really well Check for a nicely balanced flavor and avoid brands with artificial aftertaste
  • Fresh pineapple: Bright sweet flavor Use ripe pineapples with a golden skin and sweet scent Diced small is best for even topping
  • Red onions: A little bite and color Slice thin so they melt into the cheese rather than overwhelm each bite
  • Fresh cilantro: Brings freshness and a pop of color Flat leaf cilantro tastes milder and is great for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the spice rub:
In a small bowl combine brown sugar chili powder cumin garlic powder onion powder smoked paprika and salt Stir until completely mixed so every bite of chicken is flavorful
Grill chicken and slice:
Heat your grill on high until very hot Pat chicken dry with paper towels Rub the spice mix evenly on both sides of each piece Place chicken on the hot grill Cook for four to five minutes per side until fully cooked and lightly charred Set aside for ten minutes to rest then use a sharp knife to cut into bite size pieces
Prepare flatbreads:
Lay your flatbreads on a clean work surface Spread about a quarter cup of barbecue sauce evenly on each flatbread making sure to reach the edges This creates a saucy flavorful base
Assemble toppings:
Sprinkle about one cup of cheese evenly over each flatbread Top with grilled chicken pieces then scatter over diced pineapple and thinly sliced red onions Make sure each bite will have a bit of everything
Grill or bake flatbreads:
Preheat your oven to four hundred degrees or use your grill for extra smoky flavor Place topped flatbreads on a baking sheet or directly on the grill Bake or grill for ten to twelve minutes until cheese is bubbling and edges are crisp
Finish and serve:
Remove flatbreads and immediately sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro Slice into wedges For extra zip drizzle more barbecue sauce over the top before serving
A flatbread with chicken and pineapple on it. Save
A flatbread with chicken and pineapple on it. | lilicooks.com

Barbecue sauce is always the star for me I love trying new brands and homemade versions and this flatbread is how I finally convinced my husband to try pineapple on pizza He was hooked after just one bite and now we argue over leftovers

Storage tips

Let the flatbreads cool completely before storing Stack slices between parchment paper so they stay crisp Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days Reheat in a toaster oven or oven for best results so the crust gets back to its perfect crunch

Ingredient substitutions

Try using leftover shredded rotisserie chicken if you want to skip grilling If you need a dairy free version use plant based cheese blends For a different flavor swap mango for the pineapple or try a chipotle flavored barbecue sauce for extra heat

Serving suggestions

Pair with a light salad of mixed greens lime and a sprinkle of cotija cheese for a bright contrast Flatbreads also cut well into strips to serve as a fun appetizer for parties or game nights

A pizza with pineapple and onions on top. Save
A pizza with pineapple and onions on top. | lilicooks.com

Cultural and historical context

Hawaiian pizza and flatbreads are a classic North American fusion even though they did not originate in Hawaii The idea of adding tropical sweet fruit to savory grilled meats and cheese comes from blending international barbecue traditions with American pizza culture The result is a dish that tastes like a vacation in every bite

Recipe FAQs

→ What kind of chicken works best for this flatbread?

Boneless, skinless chicken tenders or chicken breasts pair well with the bold barbecue flavors—just be sure to grill until juicy and cooked through for ideal texture.

→ Can I use store-bought barbecue sauce?

Absolutely! Choose your favorite brand or style—sweet, smoky, or spicy—to complement the pineapple and chicken.

→ Is it necessary to grill the chicken?

Grilling adds a smoky touch, but you can pan-cook or bake the chicken pieces if you prefer. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.

→ Can I make this with other proteins?

Yes, cooked shrimp or pulled pork are great alternatives. Vegetarian options like grilled mushrooms work well, too.

→ What’s the best way to serve the flatbread?

Slice into wedges and garnish with fresh cilantro and extra barbecue sauce. It's great as an entree or party appetizer.

Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Flatbread

Grilled chicken, pineapple, cheese, and onions baked on flatbread with barbecue sauce and fresh herbs.

Preparation Time
20 min
Cooking Time
12 min
Overall Time
32 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Moderate

Cuisine Type: American

Output: 6 Serves

Dietary Options: ~

Ingredients

→ Rub

01 1 tablespoon brown sugar
02 1 teaspoon chili powder
03 1 teaspoon cumin
04 1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 1 teaspoon onion powder
06 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 1 teaspoon salt

→ Flatbread Assembly

08 8 chicken tenders or 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
09 4 flatbreads (e.g., Stonefire)
10 4 cups cheese
11 1 cup barbecue sauce, plus more for drizzling
12 2 cups diced fresh pineapple
13 1 cup sliced red onions
14 Fresh cilantro, chopped

Steps

Step 01

In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt.

Step 02

Heat grill on high heat. Sprinkle the rub on both sides of the chicken. Grill for 4-5 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Let rest for 10 minutes and cut into pieces.

Step 03

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 04

Spread 1/4 cup of barbecue sauce on each flatbread. Evenly distribute 1 cup of cheese over each flatbread. Add grilled chicken, sliced red onions, and diced fresh pineapple.

Step 05

Grill or bake the flatbreads for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is crisp and the cheese is fully melted.

Step 06

Top the flatbreads with fresh chopped cilantro. Cut into wedges and drizzle with additional barbecue sauce if desired.

Tips

  1. Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Required Tools

  • Grill
  • Oven
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Mixing bowl

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Contains dairy
  • Contains gluten

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 840
  • Fats: 38 g
  • Carbohydrates: 77 g
  • Proteins: 47 g