Bring a taste of the islands to your kitchen with these Hawaiian chicken tacos. They’re sweet, savory, and just a little bit tangy—everything you’d expect from that classic pineapple and chicken combo. It’s a fun, feel-good twist on taco night that’s sure to brighten your table.
Ingredients List
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 can of pineapple rings (or fresh pineapple, sliced into rings)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 soft taco shells
– 1 cup shredded lettuce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
First things first, you want to get that chicken soaking up all those tropical flavors. Place your chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a ziplock bag. Pour the teriyaki sauce over them, making sure they’re fully covered. Let them marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, but if you have more time, an hour is even better.
Prep the Pineapple
While the chicken is marinating, drain your canned pineapple rings or slice up your fresh pineapple. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Cook the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook each breast for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Seared Pineapple Rings
In the same skillet, add the pineapple rings and sear them for about 2 minutes on each side. You want them to get those nice caramelized edges.
Assemble the Tacos
Now for the fun part! Lay out your soft taco shells and layer them with shredded lettuce. Add slices of chicken on top, followed by a couple of seared pineapple rings. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Ways to Improve It
1. Add some heat with sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha sauce.
2. Toss in some diced red onion or bell peppers for extra crunch and color.
3. Sprinkle some chopped cilantro on top for a fresh burst of flavor.
4. A squeeze of lime juice right before serving can brighten up all the flavors.
5. Consider adding avocado slices for creaminess.
What to Serve With This Meal
These Hawaiian chicken tacos are pretty satisfying on their own, but if you’re looking to round out your meal, serve them with some coconut rice or a light cucumber salad. For a crunchy side, tortilla chips with mango salsa would complement the tropical theme perfectly.
Substitutions
1. Swap out teriyaki sauce with soy sauce mixed with honey if you prefer less sweetness.
2. Use grilled shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
3. Replace shredded lettuce with cabbage slaw for extra crunch.
4. Opt for corn tortillas if you want a gluten-free option.
Recipe Variations
1. Turn these into burritos by wrapping everything up in larger flour tortillas.
2. Make it vegan by using marinated tofu instead of chicken.
3. Add some cheese like Monterey Jack or cheddar if you’re feeling indulgent.
4. Try adding black beans for extra protein and texture.
Enjoy creating your own tropical paradise with these Hawaiian chicken tacos!
