Pineapple Chicken Tacos

Name: Pineapple Chicken Tacos
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, diced; 1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 small corn tortillas; 1 cup shredded cabbage; 1/2 cup diced red onion; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Lime wedges for serving; Hot sauce (optional)

Highlighted under: World Cuisine

I love making Pineapple Chicken Tacos because they bring a fresh twist to traditional taco night. The combination of sweet, juicy pineapple with marinated chicken creates a delightful balance of flavors. We often enjoy these tacos during summer barbecues or casual weeknight dinners. With a few simple ingredients and spices, you can whip up this dish in no time. Trust me; these tacos will become a family favorite, with each bite transporting you to a tropical paradise!

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-29T23:51:28.295Z

My quest for the perfect taco led me to try something different: Pineapple Chicken Tacos. One lovely summer evening, I decided to combine my love for grilled chicken with fresh pineapple, influenced by a Hawaiian flair. The blend of savory and sweet works surprisingly well—grilling the chicken with a dash of soy sauce elevates the flavors significantly.

I was amazed by how the succulent flavor of the grilled chicken paired with the ripe pineapple created a mouthwatering combination. To enhance the experience, I topped them with a zesty lime slaw. You’ll find this recipe can easily be adapted for a crowd or scaled down for a cozy dinner for two!

Why You'll Love These Tacos
Juicy, grilled chicken infused with tropical pineapple goodness
Quick and easy preparation makes weeknight dinners a breeze
The perfect blend of sweet and savory, sure to wow your taste buds

Marinating Magic

The marination process is crucial for infusing the chicken with the vibrant flavors of pineapple and spices. I recommend using a zip-top bag for easy mixing; just add the chicken and marinade ingredients, seal, and shake. Letting the chicken marinate for 15 minutes is a minimum, but if you can spare 30 minutes to an hour, the flavors will deepen further. This ensures that each bite is bursting with sweetness and savory goodness, enhancing both texture and taste.

For those who prefer a more pronounced pineapple flavor, feel free to include an extra tablespoon of pineapple juice in the marinade. This small addition will enhance the sweetness and tenderness of the chicken. Also, don’t forget to reserve a few pineapple chunks to add fresh on top of the tacos for an additional layer of freshness and texture.

Tortilla Tips

Using corn tortillas is a traditional choice that pairs perfectly with the flavors of pineapple chicken. When warming them in a skillet, aim for high heat for a quick warm-up; this helps to develop slight char marks, enhancing the flavor further. If you're using store-bought tortillas, look for those labeled as 'fresh' or 'stone-ground,' as they usually have a richer taste compared to mass-produced options.

If gluten is a concern, you can substitute corn tortillas with gluten-free wraps or lettuce leaves for a low-carb option. Just be cautious during assembly—if using lettuce leaves, select sturdy varieties like romaine or butter lettuce which can support the fillings without tearing.

Serving Suggestions

For extra flair, consider a pineapple salsa as a topping. Simply mix diced pineapple, red onion, jalapeños, and a squeeze of lime juice. This not only enhances the tropical vibe but also adds a refreshing crunch to your tacos. Additionally, you can serve the tacos with avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream to balance the flavors.

These tacos are also versatile enough for make-ahead meals. You can grill a double batch of chicken and pineapple, then refrigerate or freeze the extras. They keep well and can be quickly reheated for a last-minute dinner, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 pound chicken breast, diced
1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tacos

8 small corn tortillas
1 cup shredded cabbage
1/2 cup diced red onion
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges for serving
Hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the diced chicken, pineapple chunks, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken mixture for about 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and golden brown.

Prepare the Tortillas

Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side until pliable.

Assemble the Tacos

Fill each tortilla with the grilled chicken and pineapple mixture. Top with shredded cabbage, diced red onion, and fresh cilantro.

Serve

Serve the tacos with lime wedges and hot sauce on the side for added flavor.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding avocado slices or a drizzle of sriracha for heat! You can also substitute chicken with shrimp for a different twist.

Flavor Balancing Techniques

Finding the perfect balance between sweetness and savory can elevate your Pineapple Chicken Tacos. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding chili powder or diced jalapeños to the marinade. This heat complements the sweetness of the pineapple, creating a complex flavor profile that excites the palate. Also, toppings like pickled onions or sliced radishes can introduce tanginess that cuts through the richness.

To prevent your dish from becoming overly sweet, make sure to taste your chicken mixture after grilling. If it turns out sweeter than you prefer, a squeeze of lime juice can brighten the flavors and bring everything into harmony. Always keep lime wedges handy for guests to add their desired acidity.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of chicken breast, thighs are a great alternative, offering more flavor and juiciness. Just ensure they’re cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F, as thighs contain more fat which might obscure doneness. Should your local store sell no fresh pineapple, canned pineapple chunks will work in a pinch; just drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your filling.

For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with grilled zucchini or mushrooms marinated in the same mixture, providing a similar texture and flavor experience. Adding black beans can increase protein and make for a more filling meal, appealing to those looking for plant-based alternatives.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover pineapple chicken keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating can be done on the stovetop over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes. Just add a splash of water or chicken broth to maintain moisture and prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through, and be careful not to overcook the chicken, which can make it tough.

Freezing is also an option! Store the cooled chicken mixture in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This quick method helps retain the flavors, making it a perfect meal prep choice for busy weeks.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, canned pineapple works great! Just make sure to drain it well to prevent excess moisture.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos, and you're good to go.

→ How can I make these tacos vegan?

You can substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or a mix of grilled vegetables for a delicious vegan version.

→ Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Certainly! You can marinate the chicken a few hours in advance and just cook it when you're ready to eat.