One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos are a delightful fusion of flavors that bring a taste of Mexico to your table. This easy sheet pan recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet delicious. The combination of tender chicken thighs and sweet pineapple creates a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s versatile enough for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even a weekend treat.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Chicken Marinade
- For the Pineapple Filling
- For Serving
- How to Make One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
- Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- Step 2: Preheat the Oven
- Step 3: Roast the Chicken & Pineapple
- Step 4: Prepare Toppings While Cooking
- Step 5: Combine & Serve
- How to Serve One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
- Toppings Ideas
- Serving with Tortillas
- Garnish Suggestions
- How to Perfect One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
- Best Side Dishes for One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
- Reheating One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos special?
- Can I substitute other proteins in this recipe?
- How do I customize my One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos?
- Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation – With just 20 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
- One Pan Wonder – Simplify cleanup with everything roasted on one baking tray, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal.
- Flavorful Fusion – The combination of chipotle paste and fresh pineapple results in a unique flavor that’s both spicy and sweet.
- Customizable – Serve with tortillas or over rice, and add your favorite toppings to create the perfect taco experience.
- Healthy Ingredients – Packed with lean protein from chicken and vitamins from fresh produce, these tacos are a wholesome option.
Tools and Preparation
To make One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can enhance your cooking experience and ensure a seamless process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking tray
- Medium bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Chopping board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking tray – Allows all ingredients to roast evenly, enhancing flavor through caramelization.
- Medium bowl – Ideal for mixing the marinade thoroughly before applying it to the chicken.
- Knife – A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients easy and safe.
- Chopping board – Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for cutting.
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 Pineapple Filling
- 200g fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 small shallot
- juice 1 lime, plus extra wedges for serving
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
Whisk together all the marinade ingredients in a medium bowl. Crush the garlic into the sauce for added flavor. Roughly chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss them in the marinade until well coated. Set aside to marinate while you preheat the oven.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (about 400 degrees Fahrenheit). This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and quickly once placed inside.
Step 3: Roast the Chicken & Pineapple
Spread the marinated chicken out across a baking tray in an even layer. Sprinkle the pineapple chunks over the top. Roast everything in the oven for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 4: Prepare Toppings While Cooking
While the chicken roasts, peel and finely chop the shallot. Cube the avocado and prepare any additional toppings you may want to include with your tacos.
Step 5: Combine & Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken and pineapple from the oven. Squeeze lime juice over everything and toss together with chopped shallots on the tray. Serve immediately with fresh coriander, avocado cubes, and warm tortillas on the side for assembly. Enjoy your delicious One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos!
How to Serve One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos are not just quick to prepare; they are also versatile when it comes to serving. You can elevate your meal with various toppings, sides, and drinks that complement the flavors of the dish.
Toppings Ideas
- Fresh Coriander – A sprinkle adds a burst of freshness and color.
- Sliced Jalapeños – For those who like a little heat, sliced jalapeños provide a spicy kick.
- Crumbled Feta Cheese – A creamy touch that balances the sweetness of pineapple.
- Sour Cream – Adds creaminess and tang that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Serving with Tortillas
- Corn Tortillas – Lightly charred corn tortillas add authentic texture and flavor.
- Flour Tortillas – Soft flour tortillas are perfect for those who prefer a softer bite.
Garnish Suggestions
- Lime Wedges – Fresh lime wedges for squeezing over the tacos enhance their zestiness.
- Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado slices provide richness and balance the spices.

How to Perfect One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
Perfecting One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to make your tacos even better:
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh chicken and ripe pineapple will enhance the flavors significantly.
- Marinate Longer – If time allows, marinating the chicken for a few hours will intensify the taste.
- Adjust Spice Levels – Feel free to modify the amount of chipotle paste based on your spice preference.
- Preheat Properly – Ensure your oven is fully preheated for even cooking and caramelization of ingredients.
Best Side Dishes for One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
To create a complete meal, consider pairing your tacos with these delicious side dishes. They complement the flavors of One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos wonderfully.
- Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with spices makes a great base for tacos.
- Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans provide protein and heartiness.
- Grilled Veggies – Seasonal grilled vegetables offer additional flavor and texture.
- Corn Salad – A refreshing corn salad adds sweetness and crunch on the side.
- Guacamole – Creamy guacamole pairs perfectly with chicken and pineapple flavors.
- Chips with Salsa – Crunchy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa bring a fun element to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to bland tacos. Always marinate for at least 20 minutes to enhance flavor.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Packing too much chicken and pineapple on the sheet pan can cause uneven cooking. Spread them out for better roasting.
- Ignoring Cooking Times: Not monitoring cooking times may result in undercooked chicken or burnt pineapple. Use a timer and check for doneness.
- Using Stale Tortillas: Serving with old tortillas can ruin your tacos’ texture. Always use fresh tortillas for a delightful crunch.
- Forgetting Lime Juice: Skipping lime juice can make your tacos taste flat. Remember to squeeze fresh lime over the dish before serving for a zesty finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Layer parchment paper between portions if freezing separately.
Reheating One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
- Oven: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the tacos on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual servings on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos special?
These tacos combine juicy chicken with sweet pineapple, all cooked together on one pan, making cleanup easy and flavors incredible.
Can I substitute other proteins in this recipe?
Yes! You can replace chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different twist while keeping it deliciously simple.
How do I customize my One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos?
Feel free to add your favorite toppings like jalapeños, cheese, or sour cream to elevate your taco experience.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! These tacos are perfect for meal prepping and can be stored easily in the fridge or freezer.
Final Thoughts
One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos are not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that everyone will love. Feel free to customize ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. This versatile dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
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One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
One Pan Chicken & Pineapple Tacos bring vibrant flavors of Mexico to your table in a quick and easy dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, this sheet pan recipe combines tender chicken thighs and sweet pineapple, creating a mouthwatering meal that everyone will adore. With its convenient one-pan preparation, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your delicious creation. Customize your tacos with fresh toppings like avocado, coriander, and lime for an unforgettable experience. Whether for family dinners or casual gatherings, these flavorful tacos are sure to impress.
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 of 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. Add chicken pieces and coat well in the marinade.
- Spread marinated chicken on a baking tray and top with pineapple chunks.
- Roast for about 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- While cooking, prepare toppings like chopped shallots and cubed avocado.
- Squeeze lime juice over the roasted mixture before serving with warm tortillas and fresh coriander.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos (approx. 200g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg