Chili Lime Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Salsa

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If there’s one dish that screams summer vibes and weeknight magic all at once, it’s Chili Lime Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Salsa. Friends, this recipe is a juicy, smoky, tangy fiesta wrapped up in a tortilla—and it’s here to rescue your dinner rut!

Picture this: tender, zesty chicken, sweet caramelized pineapple salsa, and a cool, creamy avocado crema all nestled in a warm corn tortilla. It’s the perfect mix of spicy, sweet, and fresh that makes taste buds dance. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy, even on your busiest Tuesday night.

So if you’re juggling work, kids, and that endless laundry pile, let’s make dinner one thing you don’t have to stress about. Because these Chili Lime Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Salsa are about to become your new go-to recipe!

Why You’ll Love These Chili Lime Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Salsa

Fast but fabulous. Even with three components (chicken, salsa, and crema), it’s all very doable—and worth every second.
Bold flavors. Smoky grilled pineapple, chili-lime chicken, and creamy avocado crema? A total flavor party.
Customizable. Perfect for picky eaters. Add cheese, skip the spice, switch tortillas—it’s your taco adventure.
Summer on a plate. But honestly? It’s delicious any time of year.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the list intimidate you! Most of this is spices you likely have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need for your Chili Lime Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Salsa:

For the Chili Lime Chicken:

Chicken breasts or thighs (your call!)
Olive oil
Brown sugar
Lime juice and lime zest
Spices galore (think chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and more)

For the Grilled Pineapple Salsa:

Fresh pineapple
Red bell peppers
Red onions
Jalapeño
Lime juice
Fresh cilantro
Cumin
Ground ginger

For the Avocado Crema:

Ripe avocados
Sour cream
Lime juice
Salt

Extras:

Corn or flour tortillas (I’m partial to corn for that nutty, sweet flavor)
Shredded cheese like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack (optional…but highly recommended!)

How to Make Chili Lime Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Salsa

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Whisk together olive oil, brown sugar, lime juice, lime zest, and your spice blend in a bowl.
Add chicken and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate at least 30 minutes—or overnight if you’re super organized (teach me your ways!).

Aneta’s Tip: Sometimes I prep the chicken in the morning and feel like I’ve got my life together. It’s the small victories, right?

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Heat your grill (or grill pan) over medium-high heat.
Grill chicken 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through and beautifully charred.
Rest for 5 minutes, then slice or chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make the Grilled Pineapple Salsa

Slice fresh pineapple into rings or chunks.
Grill pineapple for a few minutes per side until caramelized and slightly charred.
Chop grilled pineapple and toss with diced bell peppers, onions, jalapeño, lime juice, cilantro, cumin, and ginger.

Trust me—the grilled pineapple adds a smoky sweetness that’s next-level good.

Step 4: Whip Up the Avocado Crema

Blend avocados, sour cream, lime juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy.
Try not to eat it all by the spoonful. (No judgment if you do.)

Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos

Warm your tortillas.
Layer with chili lime chicken.
Top with grilled pineapple salsa.
Drizzle with avocado crema.
Add shredded cheese if desired.

Then take a big, glorious bite and try not to squeal with joy.

Aneta’s Quick Tips for Chili Lime Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Salsa

No grill? No problem! Use a grill pan or even your oven broiler for the chicken and pineapple.
Spice control: Dial down the jalapeño or skip it altogether if you’re feeding spice-sensitive folks.
Make-ahead magic: The pineapple salsa and avocado crema can be made several hours ahead and kept chilled.
Tortilla tip: Warm tortillas in a dry skillet for the best texture and flavor.

A Little Story from My Kitchen

These Chili Lime Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Salsa became my secret weapon for family gatherings after my kids tried them once and declared them “better than takeout.” And considering my kids once thought tacos only came from drive-thru windows…that’s a serious win in my book!

Chili Lime Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Salsa filled with juicy chicken, pineapple, peppers, onions, and drizzled with avocado crema. — A vibrant close-up of Chili Lime Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Salsa, bursting with fresh pineapple, peppers, and creamy avocado drizzle.

FAQs About Chili Lime Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Salsa

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Thighs are juicy and flavorful and work beautifully in this recipe.

How spicy are these tacos?

They’re mildly spicy. The chili lime chicken has a gentle kick, and the jalapeño in the salsa adds heat. Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your taste.

Can I skip the pineapple salsa?

Technically yes…but why would you want to? It’s the sweet, smoky star of the show!

How do I store leftovers?

Store chicken, salsa, and crema separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat chicken gently and assemble tacos fresh.

Let’s Taco ‘Bout It!

So, there you have it—Chili Lime Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Salsa that will make your taste buds do the salsa (pun fully intended). Whether you’re planning Taco Tuesday or just craving something fresh and fabulous, this recipe is ready to bring a little magic to your table.

Now, go fire up that grill (or your skillet), and let’s make dinner delicious!

Keep Your Taste Buds Dancing with More Chicken Magic

If you’re craving even more bold, delicious flavors after trying these Chili Lime Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Salsa, check out some of my other reader favorites:

Bring home tropical vibes with my Honey Lime Chicken with Mango Salsa—a sweet and zesty dish perfect for summer nights.
If you love fruity chicken pairings, don’t miss Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa for a spicy island-inspired dinner.
For another taco spin, my One Pan Chicken and Pineapple Tacos delivers easy cleanup with all the sweet and savory goodness.
And if you’re all about sweet and savory chicken, try my cozy Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken for a no-fuss dinner that’ll make your house smell amazing!

Let’s keep the chicken magic going—and keep your dinner table anything but boring!