One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos are a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. This recipe combines tender chicken with sweet pineapple, all roasted together for a burst of flavor. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, these tacos offer a delightful twist on traditional meals. Easy to prepare and packed with taste, they are sure to become a new favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Just marinate the chicken while the oven heats, and let it roast with the pineapple.
- Flavorful: The combination of chipotle paste and fresh lime juice creates a vibrant taste.
- Versatile: Great for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to weekend get-togethers.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fruit, making it a nutritious choice.
- Minimal Cleanup: One pan means less time cleaning up after cooking.
Tools and Preparation
To make One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos, you’ll need some essential tools that will simplify your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking tray
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking tray: Provides ample space for roasting the chicken and pineapple evenly.
- Medium mixing bowl: Ideal for mixing marinade ingredients without spills.
- Knife: Essential for chopping ingredients quickly and efficiently.
- Cutting board: Protects your surfaces while ensuring safe cutting practices.
Ingredients
An easy sheet pan al Pastor-inspired chicken and pineapple taco recipe perfect for serving on busy weeknights.
For the Chicken
- 4 skinless boneless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp chipotle paste
- 2 tbsp runny honey
- 1 1/2 tsp tomato puree
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large garlic cloves
For the Pineapple and Tacos
- 200g fresh pineapple chunks
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
For the Fresh Toppings
- 1 small shallot
- juice 1 lime, plus extra wedges for serving
- small handful fresh coriander, roughly chopped
- 1 ripe avocado, cubed
How to Make One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Whisk together all the marinade ingredients in a medium bowl:
1. Add the chipotle paste, honey, tomato puree, salt, and crushed garlic cloves.
2. Mix until smooth.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Roughly chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Toss the chicken in the marinade until well coated.
- Set aside to marinate while preheating the oven.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (about 400 degrees Fahrenheit).
Step 4: Roast Chicken and Pineapple
- Spread the marinated chicken across a baking tray.
- Sprinkle fresh pineapple chunks over the top.
- Roast in the oven for 30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Step 5: Prepare Fresh Ingredients
While the chicken roasts:
1. Peel and finely chop the shallot.
2. Cube the avocado.
3. If using corn tortillas, lightly char them in a hot frying pan.
Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos
- Remove the baking tray from the oven once done.
- Squeeze lime juice over chicken and pineapple; toss with shallots on the tray.
- Serve sprinkled with coriander alongside avocado and tortillas for wrapping.
Now you’re ready to enjoy delicious One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos!
How to Serve One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
Serving One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos can be a delightful experience, especially when you add a few thoughtful touches. Here are some ideas to elevate your taco night.
Fresh Garnishes
- Cilantro: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top for added flavor and freshness.
- Lime Wedges: Serve with extra lime wedges for those who enjoy a tangy kick.
Accompaniments
- Salsa Verde: A green salsa complements the sweetness of the pineapple beautifully.
- Pickled Red Onions: These add a tangy crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft tacos.
Additional Fillings
- Shredded Cheese: Offer cheese options like cotija or Monterey Jack for creamy texture.
- Spicy Jalapeños: Provide sliced jalapeños for those who like their tacos with some heat.
Side Options
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve alongside for a hearty meal. Cilantro-lime rice pairs wonderfully.
- Beans: Black beans or refried beans are classic choices that add protein and fiber.

How to Perfect One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
To make your One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least an hour or overnight for deeper flavors.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh pineapple and herbs enhance taste and aroma significantly.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Customize spice by adding more or less chipotle paste to suit your preference.
- Warm Tortillas: Lightly warm tortillas in a pan before serving for better texture and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
Pairing side dishes with your One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos can round out the meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn coated in mayo, cheese, and spices makes a delicious side.
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip adds richness; serve with tortilla chips for extra crunch.
- Coleslaw: A tangy cabbage slaw adds freshness and crunch that complements tacos well.
- Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, tomatoes, and lime dressing balances the meal.
- Cilantro-Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime brightens the plate perfectly.
- Chips and Salsa: Classic appetizer that pairs well as a crunchy companion to your tacos.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish and make the process smoother.
- Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Always let the chicken soak in the marinade for at least 20 minutes.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too much chicken and pineapple on the baking tray can cause steaming instead of roasting. Ensure there’s enough space for even cooking.
- Not Prepping Ingredients Ahead: Failing to prepare ingredients like shallots and avocado beforehand can slow you down. Chop everything before starting to cook.
- Using Cold Tortillas: Serving cold tortillas can affect the overall experience. Warm them up slightly before serving.
- Ignoring Lime Juice: Skipping lime juice at the end misses out on a burst of freshness. Always add it just before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3 days for best quality.
Freezing One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
- Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
- Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking after each minute.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or shrimp for different flavors and textures.
How spicy are One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos?
The spiciness mainly comes from the chipotle paste. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference.
What toppings pair well with these tacos?
You can top your tacos with salsa, sour cream, or additional fresh cilantro for added flavor!
How do I customize One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra nutrition and variety!
Final Thoughts
One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos are not only quick but also deliciously versatile. You can easily customize them with different toppings or proteins based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try for a delightful weeknight dinner that’s sure to impress!

One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos are a delightful and easy weeknight dinner that combines the juicy tenderness of roasted chicken with the sweetness of fresh pineapple. This recipe is perfect for busy families or casual gatherings, offering a unique twist on traditional tacos. The burst of flavors from chipotle paste and lime juice makes each bite a savory delight. With minimal cleanup required, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve these tacos with your favorite toppings for a customized dining experience that will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 skinless boneless chicken thighs
- 200g fresh pineapple chunks
- 2 tbsp chipotle paste
- 2 tbsp runny honey
- 1 1/2 tsp tomato puree
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large garlic cloves
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 small shallot
- juice of 1 lime, plus extra wedges for serving
- small handful fresh coriander, roughly chopped
- 1 ripe avocado, cubed
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together chipotle paste, honey, tomato puree, salt, and crushed garlic.
- Chop chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss in the marinade until well coated; set aside.
- Spread marinated chicken on a baking tray and top with pineapple chunks.
- Roast for 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- While roasting, prepare avocado and warm tortillas in a hot pan.
- Once done, squeeze lime juice over the mixture and serve in tortillas topped with avocado and cilantro.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 95mg