Pineapple Chicken Tacos (Print Version)
Tender marinated chicken paired with fresh pineapple salsa in warm tortillas for a satisfying meal.
# What You Need:
→ Chicken & Marinade
01 - 1.1 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
02 - 2 tbsp olive oil
03 - 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
04 - 1 clove garlic, minced
05 - 1 tsp ground cumin
06 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
07 - 0.5 tsp chili powder
08 - 0.5 tsp salt
09 - 0.25 tsp black pepper
→ Pineapple Salsa
10 - 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
11 - 0.5 small red onion, finely chopped
12 - 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced
13 - 0.25 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
14 - 2 tbsp lime juice
15 - Pinch of salt
→ To Serve
16 - 8 small corn or flour tortillas, warmed
17 - 1 avocado, sliced
18 - Extra cilantro leaves (optional)
19 - Lime wedges
# How to Prepare:
01 - In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken pieces and toss until evenly coated. Let marinate for 15 minutes while preparing the salsa.
02 - Combine diced pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt in a bowl. Mix thoroughly and set aside at room temperature to allow flavors to meld.
03 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken in a single layer and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and develops a light golden-brown exterior.
04 - Heat tortillas in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side or microwave between damp paper towels for 20 seconds until pliable and warm.
05 - Place cooked chicken on warm tortillas. Top generously with pineapple salsa and add avocado slices. Garnish with additional cilantro leaves if desired and serve with lime wedges for squeezing.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The juicy pineapple creates natural sweetness that balances the spiced chicken beautifully
- Everything comes together in under 40 minutes making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Each taco feels like a tiny celebration with vibrant colors and fresh flavors
02 -
- Do not skip the marinating time even if you are in a hurry because it makes a huge difference in flavor
- Warm your tortillas properly because cold tortillas crack and break when you fold them
- The pineapple salsa needs that pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and bring out all the flavors
03 -
- Pat the chicken dry before adding the marinade so the spices adhere better
- Let the skillet get properly hot before adding the chicken for the best browning
- Squeeze fresh lime over everything right before eating for a bright finish