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Pineapple Chicken Tacos

Pineapple Chicken Tacos

Sweet caramelized pineapple and juicy seasoned chicken come together in warm tortillas for a quick, flavorful dinner ready in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into strips
  • 1.5 cups fresh or canned pineapple chunks, drained if canned
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp cumin
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 0.5 red onion, finely diced
  • fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges
  • sour cream, shredded cabbage, sliced jalapeƱo, cotija cheese (optional) optional toppings

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Marinate the chicken. Mix soy sauce, honey, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, and smoked paprika in a bowl. Add chicken strips, toss to coat, and let sit for at least 10 minutes.
  2. Cook the chicken. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken strips in a single layer and cook 4 to 5 minutes per side until charred at the edges and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. Caramelize the pineapple. In the same skillet, add remaining oil and pineapple chunks. Cook undisturbed for 2 minutes until golden and slightly charred on one side. Remove from heat.
  4. Warm the tortillas. Heat tortillas over a gas flame for 20 to 30 seconds per side, or in a dry skillet until warm and pliable.
  5. Assemble and serve. Fill each tortilla with chicken, caramelized pineapple, red onion, and cilantro. Squeeze lime juice over the top and add any optional toppings.

Notes

  • Chicken thighs stay juicier than breasts over high heat.
  • Do not crowd the pan - cook chicken in batches if needed.
  • Fresh pineapple gives the best flavor, but well-drained canned pineapple in juice works great too.
  • Store chicken and pineapple separately from tortillas for up to 3 days in the fridge.
  • Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best texture.