Honey Lime Chicken Street Tacos with Charred Pineapple Salsa

These Honey Lime Chicken Street Tacos are bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. The juicy, zesty chicken pairs wonderfully with the sweet and tangy charred pineapple salsa, creating a delicious balance of flavors in every bite. Served in warm corn tortillas, these tacos are a crowd-pleasing meal that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These tacos combine the vibrant flavors of honey lime chicken with a tropical, smoky twist from the charred pineapple salsa. The marinated chicken is flavorful and juicy, while the pineapple salsa adds a refreshing sweetness and crunch. Together with a sprinkle of cilantro and a squeeze of lime, these tacos are the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy in every bite. They’re quick to prepare, making them a great option for weeknight dinners, casual get-togethers, or even a fun taco night.

Ingredients

For the Honey Lime Chicken:

• 1½ lbs boneless chicken breasts or thighs

• 3 tbsp honey

• Juice + zest of 2 limes

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp chili powder

• ½ tsp ground cumin

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Charred Pineapple Salsa:

• 1½ cups fresh pineapple, diced

• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped

• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

• Juice of ½ lime

• Pinch of salt

For Serving:

• 8 small corn tortillas

• Extra cilantro for garnish

• Lime wedges

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice and zest, olive oil, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the marinade and coat well. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the fridge for more flavor.

2. Grill or Pan-Sear the Chicken: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill or pan-sear the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side, until it is golden brown, caramelized, and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then dice it into bite-sized pieces.

3. Char the Pineapple: In a dry skillet or grill pan, cook the pineapple pieces over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes, or until the edges are lightly caramelized. Let the pineapple cool slightly before transferring it to a bowl. Add the red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt to the pineapple and toss well to combine.

4. Warm the Tortillas: Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or directly over an open flame until they are soft, pliable, and slightly charred. This step enhances the flavor of the tortillas and makes them easier to fold.

5. Assemble the Tacos: Place a generous amount of grilled honey lime chicken in each tortilla. Top with a spoonful of the charred pineapple salsa and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cooking Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

• Servings: 4 servings (makes 8 tacos)

Storage/Reheating

If you have any leftovers, store the chicken and salsa separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. The chicken can be reheated in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. The pineapple salsa is best served fresh, but can be stored for up to 1 day in the fridge. Warm the tortillas again in a dry skillet before serving.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative and will add more moisture and flavor to the tacos. Just ensure they are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I use a different fruit for the salsa?

Absolutely! You can try using mango or peaches as a substitute for the pineapple. These fruits will add a different but equally delicious flavor to the salsa.

Can I make the pineapple salsa ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salsa ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day. However, it’s best to add the cilantro and lime juice just before serving to keep the flavors fresh.

How spicy are these tacos?

The heat in these tacos comes from the chili powder in the chicken marinade. If you prefer spicier tacos, you can add some diced jalapeño to the pineapple salsa or sprinkle some chili flakes on top.

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?

Yes, you can use flour tortillas, but corn tortillas offer a more authentic and slightly nuttier flavor that pairs wonderfully with the fresh ingredients in these tacos.

Can I make these tacos with grilled vegetables instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, to make these tacos vegetarian.

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe by pan-searing the chicken in a skillet or even baking it in the oven. The flavor from the marinade will still shine through!

How do I get the perfect char on the pineapple?

To get a nice char on the pineapple, make sure your pan is preheated and dry before adding the pineapple. The high heat will caramelize the sugars in the pineapple, giving it a smoky, sweet flavor.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

The chicken can be marinated for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, marinate it for 2-4 hours. Avoid marinating for more than 4 hours, as the lime juice can start to break down the chicken and affect the texture.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

While it’s best to use freshly grilled chicken for this recipe, you can use pre-cooked chicken if you’re short on time. Just be sure to warm it up and add the marinade to re-infuse some flavor.

Conclusion

Honey Lime Chicken Street Tacos with Charred Pineapple Salsa are a vibrant, flavorful meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. The juicy, tangy chicken pairs perfectly with the sweet, smoky pineapple salsa, creating a taco experience that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Whether for a casual weeknight meal or a fun taco night with friends, these tacos are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

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