One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos are a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines tender chicken with juicy pineapple, all cooked on a single sheet pan. The result is a quick meal that’s full of flavor and sure to please everyone in the family. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, these tacos are ideal for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- One-Pan Cooking: Simplify cleanup with everything cooked on a single baking tray.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of chipotle paste and fresh pineapple creates a sweet and spicy taste that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these tacos with corn or flour tortillas, making them suitable for various dietary preferences.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from fresh veggies like avocado and coriander.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather some tools that will help you prepare One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos efficiently.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking tray
- Medium bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Chopping board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking tray: A sturdy baking tray ensures even cooking for the chicken and pineapple, allowing all flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Medium bowl: Ideal for mixing marinade ingredients thoroughly, ensuring every piece of chicken is well-coated for maximum flavor.
Ingredients
An easy sheet pan al Pastor-inspired chicken and pineapple taco recipe perfect for serving on busy weeknights.
For the Chicken Marinade
- 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 Tacos
- 200g fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 small shallot
- juice 1 lime, plus extra wedges for serving
- small handful fresh coriander, roughly chopped
- 1 ripe avocado, cubed
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
How to Make One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- In a medium bowl, whisk together all marinade ingredients until well combined.
- Crush the garlic into the sauce for added flavor.
- Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss them in the marinade until well coated. Set aside while preheating the oven.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius. This step ensures that your chicken cooks evenly once placed in the oven.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken and Pineapple
- Spread the marinated chicken evenly across a baking tray.
- Sprinkle fresh pineapple chunks over the top.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
Step 4: Prepare Toppings While Cooking
While your taco filling bakes:
1. Peel and finely chop the shallot.
2. Cube your ripe avocado.
3. If using corn tortillas, lightly char them in a hot frying pan or directly onto an AGA hot plate.
Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos
- Once done, remove the baking tray from the oven.
- Squeeze lime juice over the chicken and pineapple mixture.
- Toss everything together with chopped shallot right on the tray.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh coriander alongside cubed avocado and taco wraps.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos!
How to Serve One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
Serving One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos can be as fun as making them. The vibrant flavors of chicken and pineapple blend perfectly, offering a delicious meal for any occasion. Here are some creative ways to serve these tacos.
With Fresh Lime Wedges
- Serve lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor that complements the savory chicken.
Accompanied by Avocado
- Cubed avocado adds creaminess and richness, making each bite more satisfying and nutritious.
Garnished with Fresh Coriander
- Sprinkle freshly chopped coriander over the tacos for a fragrant finish that enhances the overall taste.
On Warm Tortillas
- Ensure your tortillas are warm before serving. This adds a comforting touch and improves the taco experience.
With Chipotle Sauce
- Drizzle extra chipotle sauce on top for those who enjoy a bit more heat and depth in their tacos.
Paired with a Simple Salad
- A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy dressing balances the richness of the tacos beautifully.
How to Perfect One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
To take your One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos to the next level, consider these helpful tips.
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Marinate Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This enhances flavor penetration, making your chicken more delicious.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh pineapple and ripe avocados will elevate the taste and texture of your dish significantly.
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Adjust Heat Levels: If you prefer milder tacos, reduce or omit the chipotle paste. You can also add more honey for sweetness.
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Tortilla Preparation: Lightly char corn tortillas in a hot pan before serving. This adds flavor and improves their pliability for wrapping.
Best Side Dishes for One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
Pairing side dishes with your One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:
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Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing mix of corn, lime, cotija cheese, and spices that complements the flavors of the tacos well.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with lime juice and fresh cilantro provides a perfect base to enjoy alongside your tacos.
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Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and richness, making your meal heartier while balancing the taco’s flavors.
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Guacamole: A classic side that pairs wonderfully with tacos; creamy guacamole adds freshness and a delightful texture contrast.
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Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños adds brightness and crunch to each bite.
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Chips with Salsa Verde: Crunchy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa verde make for a great appetizer or side dish option before diving into the main event.
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Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies like bell peppers and zucchini provide an excellent smoky flavor that complements your tacos’ taste profile.
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Spicy Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and jalapeños dressed in lime vinaigrette can add crunchiness and spice to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to bland tacos. Make sure to set aside time for the chicken to soak in the flavors.
- Overcrowding the Baking Tray: If you crowd the chicken and pineapple, they won’t roast properly. Use a larger tray if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using canned or frozen pineapple can alter the texture and flavor. Always opt for fresh pineapple for the best taste.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat your oven can result in uneven cooking. Always ensure your oven is hot before placing your tray inside.
- Forgetting the Lime Juice: Skipping lime juice at the end misses out on a crucial flavor boost. Always add it right before serving for freshness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
- Place cooled tacos in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
- Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos so special?
One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos are quick, flavorful, and require minimal cleanup. The combination of sweet pineapple with savory chicken creates a delightful balance.
Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Yes! You can easily substitute chicken with pork or shrimp for different flavor profiles while keeping it a one-pan meal.
How do I customize my One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos?
Feel free to add your favorite toppings like cheese, salsa, or jalapeños. Adjusting spices in the marinade can also change the flavor.
What sides go well with these tacos?
Serve these tacos with a simple side salad or some Mexican rice for a complete meal that’s both tasty and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos are not just easy but also versatile. Perfect for busy weeknights, they allow you to mix and match ingredients based on your preferences. Try customizing them with different vegetables or toppings for endless delicious variations!
One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (8 tacos) 1x
Description
One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos are a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken thighs with juicy pineapple, all baked together on a single sheet pan. This quick recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, offering an explosion of sweet and spicy flavors that will impress your family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 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
- 200g fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 small shallot
- juice 1 lime, plus extra wedges for serving
- small handful fresh coriander, roughly chopped
- 1 ripe avocado, cubed
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together chipotle paste, honey, tomato puree, salt, and crushed garlic.
- Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and coat well in the marinade. Let it rest while the oven preheats.
- Spread marinated chicken on a baking tray and top with pineapple chunks.
- Roast for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Prepare toppings like chopped shallot and cubed avocado while cooking.
- Assemble tacos by squeezing lime juice over the chicken mixture and garnishing with coriander before serving in warm tortillas.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 408
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
