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#### **For the Tacos:**
1. **Taco Shells or Tortillas**:
Soft corn tortillas or flour tortillas are the classic choice for tacos. Corn tortillas offer a slightly more authentic taste, while flour tortillas are softer and more pliable.
2. **Fresh Cilantro**:
Cilantro adds freshness and brightness to the tacos, making it the perfect herb to complement the bold flavors of the grilled pineapple and chicken.
3. **Red Onion**:
Thinly sliced red onion provides a slight bite and sweetness, balancing the flavors of the tacos.
4. **Avocado**:
Creamy avocado adds a rich texture to the tacos, contrasting the grilled chicken and pineapple. You can also use guacamole if you prefer a bit more flavor.
5. **Sour Cream or Mexican Crema**:
A dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema adds a creamy, cooling element to the tacos, helping to mellow the spice and acidity of the other ingredients.
6. **Shredded Cheese**:
A sprinkle of shredded cheese, such as Cotija or cheddar, is optional but can add richness and flavor to the tacos.
7. **Hot Sauce (Optional)**:
For those who enjoy a bit of extra spice, drizzle some hot sauce over the tacos. Choose a sauce that complements the sweet and savory elements of the dish, such as a smoky chipotle or a tangy verde sauce.
### **Step-by-Step Instructions for Grilled Pineapple Chicken Tacos**
#### **Step 1: Prepare the Marinade for the Chicken**
To begin, prepare the marinade for the chicken. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until the ingredients are well combined.
Cut the chicken into strips or leave it whole, depending on your preference for taco fillings. If you’re using chicken breasts, slicing them into strips will ensure they cook more quickly and are easier to eat in a taco. Add the chicken to the marinade and toss it to coat thoroughly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Marinating for a longer period of time will intensify the flavors, so feel free to let it marinate for up to 2 hours.
#### **Step 2: Grill the Pineapple**
While the chicken marinates, prepare the pineapple. Cut off the top and bottom of the pineapple, then slice it into thick rounds. Remove the core from each slice by cutting out the center with a sharp knife. You can either grill the pineapple slices whole or cut them into smaller pieces if you prefer bite-sized chunks for your tacos.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the pineapple slices with a little olive oil to prevent sticking and to help with caramelization. Grill the pineapple for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the pineapple is slightly softened. The grilling process will caramelize the natural sugars, intensifying the sweetness of the fruit. Once grilled, set the pineapple aside to cool for a few minutes before cutting it into small, bite-sized pieces.
#### **Step 3: Grill the Chicken**
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken. The chicken should be cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
#### **Step 4: Assemble the Tacos**
Warm your taco shells or tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds to 1 minute to soften them. Lay each tortilla flat and start assembling your tacos. Begin by adding a generous portion of grilled chicken, followed by the grilled pineapple pieces.
Top with sliced red onions, fresh cilantro, and slices of creamy avocado. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle a little bit of shredded cheese on top. For a finishing touch, add a dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema to bring all the flavors together. If you like it spicy, drizzle some hot sauce over the top.
#### **Step 5: Serve and Enjoy**
Once your tacos are assembled, they’re ready to serve! These grilled pineapple chicken tacos are best enjoyed fresh off the grill, but you can also prepare the ingredients in advance and assemble the tacos just before serving.
### **Customization Ideas for Grilled Pineapple Chicken Tacos**
While this recipe is delicious as is, there are many ways to customize your grilled pineapple chicken tacos to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas to make the recipe even more exciting:
1. **Tropical Salsa**: Add a tropical salsa made with diced mango, pineapple, and red bell pepper to give the tacos an extra burst of freshness and flavor.
2. **Pickled Red Onions**: If you prefer a tangier taste, try using pickled red onions instead of fresh ones. The acidity of the pickling brine will provide a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the pineapple.
3.
**Spicy Marinade**: Add some heat to your chicken by incorporating jalapeño or chili flakes into the marinade. The spice will complement the sweetness of the pineapple and give the tacos a zesty kick.
4. **Cabbage Slaw**: For extra crunch, top your tacos with a refreshing cabbage slaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a lime-based dressing.
### **Conclusion**
Grilled pineapple chicken tacos are a delightful combination of tropical flavors that offer a fresh and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. The sweetness of the pineapple pairs perfectly with the savory chicken, and with the right toppings, you can create a taco that’s both satisfying and exciting to eat.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, preparing for a barbecue, or simply craving something flavorful, these tacos are sure to impress. Try them out and experiment with different toppings, and soon you’ll have your own signature version of grilled pineapple chicken tacos!
