Easy Chicken and Pineapple Tacos
Description
These sweet and savory tacos are a tropical twist on classic chicken tacos. Juicy pineapple chunks add a burst of sweetness that perfectly balances the spicy, seasoned chicken. Topped with crunchy cabbage, creamy avocado, and a zesty lime crema, these tacos are light, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pineapple:
1 cup fresh pineapple, diced (or canned, drained)
1 tsp honey (optional, if pineapple is not very sweet)
1 tsp lime juice
Toppings:
1 cup shredded red or green cabbage
1 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
1/4 cup lime crema or sour cream
6 small flour or corn tortillas
Optional:
Jalapeños for heat
Cotija cheese for garnish
Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken (5 mins):
Cut chicken into bite-size pieces. In a bowl, toss with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook the Chicken (10 mins):
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and slightly crispy on the edges.
3. Prepare the Pineapple (5 mins):
In a separate pan or the same skillet, add the pineapple chunks. Cook for 3-5 minutes until caramelized slightly. Add honey and lime juice if desired.
4. Warm the Tortillas (2 mins):
Heat tortillas in a dry pan or microwave until soft and pliable.
5. Assemble the Tacos (5 mins):
Layer tortillas with chicken, pineapple, cabbage, avocado, red onion, cilantro, and lime crema or sour cream. Top with jalapenos or Cotija if using.
6. Serve Immediately.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 3-4 people (6 tacos)
Nutritional Information (per 2 tacos):
Calories: ~420 kcal
Protein: 30g
Carbs: 30g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: ~500mg
Note: Values may vary depending on brands and ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use rotisseries chicken?
A: Absolutely! Just shred it and toss with the spices and a splash of oil to warm it up.
Q: Can I grill the pineapples instead?
A: Yes! Grilled pineapple adds a smokier depth—just slice and grill until charred, then dice.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Use corn tortillas and ensure your seasonings and crema are gluten-free to make it safe.
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: You can cook the chicken and pineapple ahead and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble tacos fresh when ready to serve.
Q: What else can I add?
A: Try pickled onions, black beans, or a mango salsa for a different twist
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