grilled chicken and pineapple tacos on a wooden board

Summer grilling recipes

grilled chicken and pineapple tacos: a tropical twist on a classic

By:

WordofMany

Published:

14 Jun 2025
grilled chicken and pineapple tacos on a wooden board
I remember the first time I tried a chicken and pineapple taco. It was at a small food truck during a music festival. Skeptical at first, the explosion of sweet and savory flavors completely won me over. The juicy grilled chicken paired with the caramelized sweetness of the pineapple, all wrapped in a warm tortilla – pure bliss! I knew right then that I had to recreate this magic at home. This recipe is my take on that unforgettable taco, and I'm so excited to share it with you. It's easier then you think, i promise! I am sure you are going to love them.
overhead shot of colorful grilled chicken and pineapple tacos with various toppings
These Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Tacos are not just delicious; they're also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite toppings and sauces. Whether you're a fan of spicy sriracha mayo, creamy avocado, or tangy pickled onions, the possibilities are endless. Plus, they're a fantastic way to add a tropical twist to your taco night. What's more, they're fairly healthy, making them an option when you want something satisfying without the guilt.
close-up shot of a hand holding a grilled chicken and pineapple taco, with visible toppings

Required Equipments

  • Grill
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Tongs
  • Cutting Board
  • Chef's Knife
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Tacos: A Tropical Twist on a Classic: Frequently Asked Questions

Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Tacos: A Tropical Twist on a Classic

These Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Tacos combine savory grilled chicken with sweet, caramelized pineapple for a flavor explosion. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, they're perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight meal.

⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 6 servings

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time:

🍽 Ingredients

📖 Instructions

  1. First things first, let's get that marinade going. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Give it a good stir to make sure everything's nicely combined. Don't be shy, taste it and adjust the seasonings to your liking! Maybe a little extra chili powder for a kick?
  2. Now, place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor penetration. Trust me, the longer it marinates, the better it tastes! I once marinated chicken overnight by accident, and it was the most delicious mistake I ever made.
  3. While the chicken is marinating, prepare the pineapple. Peel the pineapple and cut it into 1/2-inch thick rings or chunks. If you're using rings, you can grill them whole and then chop them up after grilling. It's all about personal preference here!
  4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean to prevent sticking. If you're using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are glowing red with a light coating of ash. A little tip: lightly oiling the grates can also help prevent sticking.
  5. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's fully cooked. Nobody wants undercooked chicken!
  6. Next, place the pineapple slices or chunks on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they have nice grill marks and are slightly caramelized. The sugars in the pineapple will start to caramelize, giving it a wonderfully sweet and smoky flavor. Keep an eye on them, as they can burn quickly!
  7. Remove the chicken and pineapple from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before chopping them into bite-sized pieces. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
  8. Warm the tortillas according to package instructions. You can warm them in a dry skillet, in the microwave, or even directly on the grill for a few seconds per side. I prefer the skillet method for that slightly charred flavor.
  9. Now comes the fun part: assembling the tacos! Fill each tortilla with grilled chicken, grilled pineapple, and your favorite toppings. I love adding some fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. But feel free to get creative and add whatever you like! Maybe some shredded cabbage, pickled onions, or a drizzle of sriracha mayo?
  10. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Tacos! These tacos are perfect for a summer barbecue, a Cinco de Mayo celebration, or just a fun and flavorful weeknight meal. I like to serve them with a side of Mexican rice and some black beans for a complete and satisfying meal.

📝 Notes

  • For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the marinade.
  • If you don't have fresh pineapple, canned pineapple chunks can be used, but be sure to drain them well.
  • Feel free to add other toppings like shredded cabbage, pickled onions, or a drizzle of sriracha mayo.

🍎 Nutrition

Calories: 350 kcal

Protein: 25g

Fat: 15g

Carbohydrates: 35g

Fiber: 3g

Calcium: 50mg

The secret ingredient is always love, and maybe a little bit of pineapple. – Chef Isabella Rossi

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