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 mins
Cook Time 12 minutes mins
Total Time 27 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Hawaiian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal
Large skillet or frying pan
Mixing Bowls
Knife and Cutting Board
Tongs or Spatula
Measuring Spoons and Cups
Serving Platter or Plates
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
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.
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