Pineapple Chicken Tacos

Name: Pineapple Chicken Tacos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper, to taste; 8 corn tortillas; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; 2 cups green cabbage, shredded; 1/2 cup red cabbage, shredded; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 lime, juiced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Taste the Globe

I absolutely love how these Pineapple Chicken Tacos combine sweet and savory flavors in the most delicious way. The juicy pineapple adds a refreshing twist to the tender chicken, creating a vibrant filling that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends. I often serve these tacos with a zesty cilantro-lime slaw that elevates the flavors even more. Trust me, these are a crowd-pleaser—you'll find everyone asking for seconds!

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-01-30T00:25:27.864Z

When I first tried making Pineapple Chicken Tacos, I was amazed by how well the flavors blended together. The sweetness of the pineapple perfectly balances the savory spices of the chicken. To get the best results, I marinate the chicken in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, and chili powder before cooking. This not only adds a delightful flavor but also keeps the chicken tender and juicy.

Another tip is to grill the pineapple along with the chicken. The caramelization enhances the sweetness, giving the tacos an extra depth of flavor. Paired with a fresh salsa or a creamy avocado sauce, these tacos are my go-to meal for warm evenings!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delicious balance of sweet pineapple and savory chicken
Quick to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights
Versatile; great with various toppings and sides
Colorful presentation that makes it a feast for the eyes

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the chicken is a key step that infuses it with flavor, enhancing the overall dish. The combination of olive oil, garlic, and spices not only adds depth but also helps to tenderize the chicken. For optimal results, consider marinating for up to an hour if time allows. The longer you marinate, the more intense the flavors will be. Make sure the chicken is coated evenly for the best taste in every bite.

If you're pressed for time, even a 15-minute marination will significantly improve the chicken's taste. Just be cautious not to over-marinate; leaving it in an acidic mixture for too long can make the texture mushy. Using a sealable bag can help ensure the marinade covers every piece evenly while allowing for easy cleanup.

Building Exceptional Flavor with Pineapple

Adding grilled pineapple at the end of cooking creates a wonderful caramelized sweetness that perfectly complements the savory chicken. Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that can break down proteins, so it’s essential to add it in the last few minutes to avoid over-tenderizing. Stirring until the pineapple is caramelized and slightly charred adds a complex layer of flavor and texture to your tacos.

If fresh pineapple isn't available, canned pineapple can be a suitable substitute, but be sure to drain it thoroughly and pat it dry to avoid excessive moisture. This will help maintain the desired texture in your tacos. A quick flash of heat will enhance the natural sugars, resulting in a delightful balance of sweet and savory.

Perfecting Your Cilantro-Lime Slaw

The cilantro-lime slaw not only adds a fresh crunch but also balances the richness of the chicken and pineapple. For a brighter flavor, use fresh lime juice as opposed to bottled, and adjust the amount to your taste. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the slaw for an extra kick.

It's best to let the slaw sit for about 10 minutes after mixing to allow the flavors to meld. This resting time will not only enhance the taste but also slightly soften the cabbage, making it more enjoyable in the tacos. The slaw can be made a few hours in advance and refrigerated, making it a great make-ahead component for busy evenings.

Ingredients

For the Tacos

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 corn tortillas
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

For the Cilantro-Lime Slaw

2 cups green cabbage, shredded
1/2 cup red cabbage, shredded
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 lime, juiced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine diced chicken, olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Prepare the Slaw

In a separate bowl, mix shredded green and red cabbage, chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss well to combine and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes until cooked through and slightly charred.

Grill the Pineapple

Add the diced pineapple to the skillet in the last 2 minutes of cooking the chicken. Stir until caramelized.

Assemble Tacos

Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet. Spoon the chicken and grilled pineapple mixture into each tortilla. Top with cilantro-lime slaw.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding slices of avocado or a drizzle of spicy crema on top of your tacos. These are also great for meal prep
just pack the chicken and slaw separately and assemble the tacos fresh when ready to eat.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Pineapple Chicken Tacos, consider serving them with various toppings like diced avocado, crumbled feta cheese, or a drizzle of sriracha for added flavor and texture. A side of black beans or Mexican rice can make this a complete meal while also providing additional protein and fiber. Even a simple lime wedge enhances the dish by adding a zesty finish.

For a more interactive dining experience, set up a taco bar where guests can customize their tacos with their choice of toppings. This makes the meal engaging, allowing everyone to personalize their tacos to their taste preferences—definitely a hit during gatherings!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, the chicken and pineapple mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the texture and flavor. Adding a splash of lime juice during reheating can help refresh the flavors, making it almost as good as fresh.

For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken and pineapple mix in portions. Just ensure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. This method can keep it fresh for up to three months. Allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to ensure even cooking.

Variations on the Classic Recipe

Feel free to experiment with different proteins based on what you have on hand. Shrimp or firm tofu can be delicious alternatives that pair beautifully with the pineapple and slaw. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as shrimp typically cooks in just 3-4 minutes, while tofu may need a few extra minutes to develop a golden crust.

You can also switch up the tortillas; while corn tortillas are traditional, whole wheat or flour tortillas can offer a different texture and flavor. Additionally, if you're feeling adventurous, adding a fruit salsa made with mango or peach can introduce an exciting new layer of flavor to your tacos.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes! Canned pineapple works, but fresh pineapple adds a crisp texture and brighter flavor.

→ What's a good side dish to serve?

These tacos pair well with black beans or a refreshing corn salad.

→ Can I prepare the chicken in advance?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge until you're ready to cook.

→ How can I make these tacos spicy?

Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the chicken marinade for a spicy kick.