If your weeknights have been feeling a bit too routine, these One Pan Chicken and Pineapple Tacos are exactly what you need to shake things up. Juicy chicken pieces are seasoned with warm spices and cooked with caramelized pineapple that adds a punch of sweetness to every bite. All made in a single pan, this recipe brings tropical flair without the fuss.

There’s something about the combo of sweet and savory that feels like a mini vacation in your kitchen. These tacos are quick enough for a weeknight dinner but exciting enough to serve at your next backyard get-together. The warm tortillas soak up every bit of flavor, and topping them with fresh lime and crunchy cabbage slaw just makes them pop.

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Chicken and Pineapple Tacos Recipe

These tacos are made for busy days. They’re ready in under 30 minutes, use simple ingredients, and don’t leave a pile of dishes behind. The one-pan method means your kitchen stays neat while the flavors get the chance to blend and deepen as they cook together. The result? A juicy, sticky, spicy-sweet filling that’s way more exciting than your average taco night.

Plus, they’re super versatile. Use corn or flour tortillas, pile on the toppings, or keep it simple — the base recipe shines either way. It’s also a great meal prep option, storing well and reheating beautifully for lunch the next day.

What Kind of Pineapple Should I Use?

Fresh pineapple is ideal for this recipe because it caramelizes better and adds a juicy texture that canned pineapple just can’t match. But if fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple chunks (drained very well) will still give you that sweet-tangy balance.

Look for a ripe pineapple that smells fragrant at the base and has a slight give when pressed. If you’re in a pinch, frozen pineapple (thawed and drained) can also be used and still gives good flavor.

Ingredients for the One Pan Chicken and Pineapple Tacos

The ingredients here are simple, fresh, and full of flavor. Each one plays a role in building the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and a little bit of heat.

Chicken thighs – Boneless and skinless thighs are juicy and cook quickly, making them perfect for high-heat one-pan meals.

Pineapple chunks – Adds caramelized sweetness and a tropical bite that complements the savory chicken beautifully.

Red onion – Brings sharpness and a hint of color, and it mellows as it sautés with the chicken.

Garlic cloves – Minced garlic infuses the pan with rich, fragrant depth.

Chili powder – Offers warm spice and brings out the smoky-sweet contrast.

Cumin – A key player in taco seasoning, giving earthiness to the dish.

Paprika – Adds mild heat and a beautiful color to the chicken.

Olive oil – Helps brown the chicken and carries the flavor of the spices.

Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning throughout.

Lime juice – A bright squeeze at the end wakes up all the flavors.

Corn tortillas – Warmed and slightly toasted for the best taco base.

Shredded cabbage or slaw mix – Adds crunch and contrast to the warm filling.

How To Make the One Pan Chicken and Pineapple Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, chop the red onion, and mince the garlic. If you’re using fresh pineapple, core and cube it.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and let it sear for 4-5 minutes without moving it much so it browns nicely. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, and paprika.

Step 3: Add the Onion and Garlic

Stir in the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until the onion softens and the garlic is fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Step 4: Caramelize the Pineapple

Add the pineapple chunks to the skillet. Let them sit undisturbed for a few minutes so they develop color and caramelize, then stir and cook another 3-4 minutes until everything is golden and sticky.

Step 5: Finish with Lime

Remove the pan from the heat and squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture. Toss to coat everything evenly.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos

Warm your tortillas in a dry pan or directly over a flame for a bit of char. Fill each with a scoop of the chicken-pineapple mix, then top with shredded cabbage or slaw. Serve with extra lime wedges on the side.

Serving and Storing One Pan Chicken and Pineapple Tacos

This recipe yields enough to feed 4 people generously, with about 2 tacos per person depending on tortilla size. They’re best served fresh, with the warm filling and cool, crisp toppings creating that perfect balance.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, toss the filling in a hot skillet for a few minutes until warmed through. You can also prep the filling ahead of time and assemble tacos fresh when ready to eat.

What to Serve With Chicken and Pineapple Tacos?

Cilantro Lime Rice

Light and zesty, it complements the tropical sweetness of the pineapple.

Black Bean Salad

Adds a hearty, protein-rich side with contrasting textures and colors.

Mexican Street Corn

Creamy, spicy, and cheesy, this is a crowd-pleasing side for any taco night.

Guacamole and Chips

Classic, creamy, and always a hit. Perfect to scoop while the tacos cook.

Mango Salsa

Sweet and tangy with a bit of chili heat, this makes a fun topping or side.

Pickled Red Onions

Add a tangy crunch that pairs beautifully with the richness of the chicken.

Avocado Slices

Cool and buttery, they mellow out the spice and add a rich texture.

Spicy Mayo Drizzle

Mix a little sriracha with mayo for a quick drizzle over the tacos.

Want More Taco and Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love these sweet and savory tacos, you might want to try these other flavor-packed dishes from Luna Meals:

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest taco or dinner ideas board so it’s always just a click away.

Let me know in the comments how your tacos turned out! Did you go all in on toppings or keep it simple? I love hearing how others tweak recipes to make them their own.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and dinner recipes on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new favorite flavor combos.

Conclusion

One Pan Chicken and Pineapple Tacos are a weeknight lifesaver with big weekend flavor. They’re easy to make, incredibly tasty, and feel like a tropical escape on a plate. From juicy chicken to caramelized pineapple, this one-skillet recipe proves that great tacos don’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re feeding the family or treating yourself, these tacos are sure to make it into your regular rotation.

One Pan Chicken and Pineapple Tacos

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Chicken and Pineapple Tacos Recipe

What Kind of Pineapple Should I Use?

Ingredients for the One Pan Chicken and Pineapple Tacos