Grilled Pineapple Chicken Tacos

There’s something truly magical about the combination of sweet, smoky pineapple paired with tender, juicy chicken wrapped in warm corn tortillas. Grilled Pineapple Chicken Tacos bring a vibrant burst of flavor to your table, perfect for any night of the week when you want something fresh, fun, and downright delicious. This recipe is simple yet packed with bold, beautiful contrasts—the charred sweetness of pineapple, the smoky spices on the chicken, and the zesty freshness of lime and cilantro. It’s a taco night that feels like a mini tropical escape.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

What makes these Grilled Pineapple Chicken Tacos so irresistible is the perfect balance of sweet and savory, plus the ease of preparation. The natural sugars in the pineapple caramelize beautifully on the grill, adding a juicy pop to every bite. The chicken breasts are seasoned with chili powder and cumin, giving them a warm, earthy flavor that complements the fruitiness perfectly.

If you’re someone who loves quick dinners with a twist, this recipe is your new best friend. You don’t need a long list of ingredients or complicated techniques. Just a few fresh ingredients, a grill or grill pan, and about 30 minutes will do. They make for an impressive meal to serve at a casual get-together or a simple weeknight dinner.

Bonus: these tacos are naturally gluten-free thanks to the corn tortillas, and they pair wonderfully with a variety of fresh salsas or sides. If you enjoy meals that combine fruit and meat in creative ways, you might also want to check out the Crockpot Peach Salsa Chicken Tacos for another delicious spin on chicken tacos with fruit.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 fresh pineapple, peeled and cored, sliced into rings
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup diced red onion
• 1 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

How To Make Grilled Pineapple Chicken Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts. In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat thoroughly with the spice mixture. Let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes to absorb all those wonderful flavors.

Step 2: Prep the Pineapple

While the chicken is marinating, peel and core your fresh pineapple, then slice it into about ½-inch thick rings. These will grill alongside the chicken, so keep the slices uniform for even cooking.

Step 3: Heat the Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan indoors, lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken and Pineapple

Place the chicken breasts and pineapple rings on the grill. Cook the chicken for about 6 to 7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through and nicely charred on the outside. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Grill the pineapple for about 2-3 minutes per side until you see those beautiful grill marks and the fruit softens slightly.

Step 5: Warm the Tortillas

While the chicken and pineapple finish grilling, warm your corn tortillas. You can do this directly on the grill for about 20 seconds per side or heat them in a dry skillet until pliable and warm.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos

Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it into thin strips. Cut the grilled pineapple into bite-sized pieces. To build your tacos, place some chicken strips and pineapple chunks on each tortilla. Top with diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Grilled Pineapple Chicken Tacos immediately while warm. Feel free to add extra lime wedges on the side for more zest. These tacos pair beautifully with a fresh salad or a side of black beans.

Expert Tips

• Use fresh pineapple: Fresh pineapple provides the best texture and sweetness. Canned pineapple is too soft and watery for grilling.
• Don’t skip resting the chicken: Letting the chicken rest after grilling keeps it juicy and tender when sliced.
• Control the grill heat: Medium-high heat is key to getting good char without burning the chicken or pineapple.
• Warm tortillas properly: Warm tortillas are flexible and less likely to tear when wrapped around the filling.
• Adjust spice levels: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for extra heat and smokiness if you like your tacos spicier.
• Try a grill pan indoors: If you don’t have an outdoor grill, a grill pan works perfectly to get those grill marks and smoky flavor.
• For a slightly different flavor profile, you can check out the Baked Teriyaki Chicken Recipe which also pairs wonderfully with grilled pineapple.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap chicken for shrimp or fish: For a seafood twist, use shrimp or firm white fish like mahi-mahi.
• Add avocado or guacamole: Creamy avocado slices or guacamole add richness and balance the acidity of the lime.
• Include a spicy sauce: Drizzle chipotle mayo or a smoky salsa for an added kick.
• Use flour tortillas: If you prefer a softer texture, flour tortillas work great too.
• Include pickled jalapeños: For those who love some heat and tang, pickled jalapeños are a fantastic addition.
• Add shredded cheese: A sprinkle of cotija or queso fresco enhances the flavor and texture.
• Make it vegan: Substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh and keep the pineapple and toppings for a vibrant plant-based option.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (though these tacos rarely last long!), store the grilled chicken and pineapple separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. Store tortillas wrapped in foil or a zip-top bag to keep them soft. When ready to eat, reheat the chicken and pineapple gently on the stove or in the microwave. Warm the tortillas as before and assemble fresh tacos for best flavor and texture.

FAQ

Can I use frozen pineapple for the tacos?

Frozen pineapple isn’t ideal because it tends to release too much water when thawed, making it soggy and less suitable for grilling. Fresh pineapple is best for getting that perfect caramelized sweetness.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). The chicken should also be firm to the touch and have clear juices when pierced.

Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and pineapple in advance and store them refrigerated. Warm everything and assemble just before serving to keep the tortillas from getting soggy.

What sides go well with Grilled Pineapple Chicken Tacos?

Fresh, light sides like a simple black bean salad, Mexican street corn, or a crisp green salad complement these tacos beautifully. You could also serve with rice or chips and salsa for a full meal.

Conclusion

Grilled Pineapple Chicken Tacos are a celebration of sweet and smoky flavors wrapped in a simple, hand-held delight. They bring together fresh ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques to create a dish that’s bursting with tropical charm and spice. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something vibrant and satisfying, this recipe is a fantastic go-to for taco night. So fire up your grill, slice that pineapple, and enjoy every juicy, flavorful bite!

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