There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of juicy chicken, sweet caramelized pineapple, and warm, lightly toasted tortillas. These One-Pan Chicken and Pineapple Tacos bring a tropical twist to taco night, making them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal with family and friends.

The beauty of this recipe is that it all comes together in just one pan—minimal cleanup, maximum flavor! The sweet and smoky balance of the pineapple and spices gives every bite a satisfying depth, while fresh toppings like lime juice, avocado, and cilantro add brightness. Whether you’re a taco enthusiast or just looking for a simple and delicious meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with just one pan for easy cleanup.
• Sweet & Savory – The combination of chicken and caramelized pineapple creates the perfect balance.
• Customizable – Swap out toppings to suit your taste, whether you love heat, crunch, or extra creaminess.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for a casual family dinner or a festive taco night with friends.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken and Pineapple Filling:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 cup pineapple chunks
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of 1 lime

For Serving:

• 8 small corn or flour tortillas
• ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional for heat)
• Lime wedges, for garnish

How to Make One-Pan Chicken and Pineapple Tacos

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced chicken and season with cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the chicken evenly in the spices. Cook for about 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

Step 2: Add the Pineapple

Once the chicken is cooked, push it to one side of the pan. Add the pineapple chunks to the empty space and let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes. This allows them to caramelize slightly, enhancing their natural sweetness. Stir everything together and cook for another minute so the flavors meld.

Step 3: Warm the Tortillas

While the chicken and pineapple finish cooking, warm your tortillas. You can do this by heating them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side or wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving them for 20-30 seconds.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

Spoon the flavorful chicken and pineapple mixture onto each tortilla. Top with chopped red onion, fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and sliced jalapeños if you like a bit of heat. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a burst of brightness.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Serve your tacos immediately while they’re warm, and enjoy every sweet, smoky, and savory bite!

Helpful Tips

• Caramelize the Pineapple – Let the pineapple sit in the pan without stirring for a couple of minutes. This helps bring out its natural sugars, making it extra delicious.
• Make It Spicier – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning or top with extra jalapeños.
• Use Fresh Pineapple – While canned pineapple works, fresh pineapple gives the best caramelization and flavor.
• Double the Batch – This recipe is easy to scale up if you’re feeding a crowd or want leftovers for the next day.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: One-Pan Cooking
• Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
• Diet: Gluten-Free (if using corn tortillas)

Notes

• Feel free to swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier texture.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best results.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 9g

(Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient choices.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different protein?

Yes! This recipe works great with shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Cook the chicken and pineapple mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat before serving, and warm up your tortillas fresh for the best texture.

What are the best toppings for these tacos?

These tacos pair wonderfully with fresh cilantro, diced red onions, avocado, jalapeños, or even a dollop of sour cream. If you like a little crunch, shredded cabbage or radishes are great additions too!

Can I grill the pineapple instead?

Yes! Grilling the pineapple adds a smoky depth of flavor. Just brush it with a little oil and grill for 2-3 minutes per side before adding it to the tacos.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store the chicken and pineapple mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm it up in a skillet over medium heat for the best flavor and texture.
• Freezing: While the chicken and pineapple can be frozen for up to 2 months, the texture is best when eaten fresh.

Related Recipes

If you loved these One-Pan Chicken and Pineapple Tacos, check out these other delicious dishes:

• Teriyaki Chicken Tacos
• Spicy Jalapeño Chicken
• Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan: A Tropical Escape for Dinner

Conclusion

Taco night just got a serious upgrade with these One-Pan Chicken and Pineapple Tacos. They’re quick to make, bursting with flavor, and require minimal cleanup—what’s not to love? Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these tacos are sure to impress.