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Hawaiian chicken tacos

Hawaiian Chicken Tacos

These tacos aren’t just about flavor—they’re about creating a meal that’s both satisfying and fun. The chicken is savory and full of depth, while the pineapple adds a juicy pop that keeps every bite lively.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Hawaiian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Knife and Cutting Board
  • Tongs or Spatula
  • Measuring Spoons and Cups
  • Serving Platter or Plates

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Pineapple Salsa

  • 1 cup fresh pineapple diced
  • ½ small red onion finely chopped
  • 1 small red bell pepper diced
  • 1 jalapeño seeded and finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Pinch of salt

For Assembling the Tacos

  • 8 small flour or corn tortillas
  • ½ cup shredded cabbage or lettuce
  • ¼ cup crumbled feta or cotija cheese optional
  • Lime wedges for serving
  • Your favorite hot sauce or creamy sauce optional

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade

  • Place the chicken pieces in a large mixing bowl.
  • Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the chicken.
  • Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce.
  • Add 1 tablespoon of honey.
  • Sprinkle 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper over the chicken.
  • Use a spoon or your hands to mix everything together until all chicken pieces are evenly coated.
  • Let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature. (Optional: You can refrigerate for up to 1 hour if you have time—this deepens the flavor.)
  • Pro Tip: Mix gently but thoroughly to avoid tearing the chicken pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple Salsa

  • Dice 1 cup of fresh pineapple into small, even pieces.
  • Finely chop ½ small red onion.
  • Dice 1 small red bell pepper into small cubes.
  • Remove seeds from the jalapeño and finely chop it.
  • Place all chopped ingredients into a medium mixing bowl.
  • Add 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro.
  • Squeeze the juice of 1 lime over the mixture.
  • Add a pinch of salt.
  • Stir everything together until well combined.
  • Set aside while you cook the chicken.
  • Pro Tip: Taste the salsa and adjust lime or salt if you prefer more tang or seasoning.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

  • Place a large skillet or frying pan on the stove over medium heat.
  • Wait until the skillet is warm before adding chicken.
  • Add the marinated chicken to the skillet in a single layer.
  • Let the chicken cook without moving it for 3–4 minutes to get a light sear.
  • Flip each piece using tongs or a spatula.
  • Continue cooking for another 3–4 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
  • Taste a small piece to ensure it is seasoned and cooked through.
  • Pro Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan—if your skillet is small, cook the chicken in two batches to prevent steaming instead of searing.

Step 4: Warm the Tortillas

  • Place a dry skillet over medium-low heat.
  • Once warm, add 1 tortilla at a time to the skillet.
  • Heat each side for about 20–30 seconds until soft and slightly golden.
  • Keep the tortillas warm by stacking them and wrapping in a clean kitchen towel.
  • Pro Tip: Soft, warm tortillas are easier to fold and won’t crack when filled.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

  • Lay a tortilla flat on a plate.
  • Add a small handful of shredded cabbage or lettuce.
  • Place 3–4 pieces of cooked chicken on top.
  • Spoon a generous amount of pineapple salsa over the chicken.
  • Sprinkle with crumbled cheese if using.
  • Repeat with remaining tortillas and ingredients.
  • Serve with lime wedges and optional hot sauce or creamy sauce on the side.
  • Pro Tip: Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture—the pineapple salsa is freshest and the chicken is juiciest right off the skillet.

Notes

Nutritional Value (per serving, 2 tacos):

  • Calories: ~350 kcal
  • Protein: ~28 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~30 g
  • Fat: ~12 g
  • Fiber: ~3 g
  • Sugar: ~9 g
  • Sodium: ~550 mg
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Nutrition Disclaimer:
The nutritional information provided on this website is an estimate only and is intended for general guidance. We cannot guarantee its accuracy and recommend consulting a qualified healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition advice.
Keyword chicken tacos, Hawaiian chicken tacos, pineapple chicken tacos