Description: These Grilled Pineapple BBQ Chicken Tacos with Jalapeño Garlic Sauce are a burst of summer flavors in every bite. Juicy, grilled chicken marinated in smoky BBQ sauce meets sweet, caramelized grilled pineapple, all drizzled with a creamy, spicy jalapeño garlic sauce. Served in warm tortillas with fresh cabbage and cilantro, these tacos are an explosion of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more. This recipe is perfect for a backyard BBQ, a quick weeknight dinner, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a unique and delicious dish.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts – Chicken thighs tend to be more flavorful and stay moist during grilling, but chicken breasts are a leaner option.
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (use a smoky or honey variety) – The choice of BBQ sauce is crucial. A smoky BBQ sauce will add depth, while a honey BBQ sauce will enhance the sweetness.
- ½ tsp smoked paprika – This adds a smoky depth to the chicken, complementing the BBQ sauce.
- Salt & pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning the chicken.
For the Pineapple:
- 1½ cups pineapple chunks or rings, grilled – Fresh pineapple is best, but canned pineapple rings can be used in a pinch. Grilling the pineapple caramelizes the sugars, intensifying its sweetness.
Jalapeño Garlic Sauce:
- 1 jalapeño, seeded – Adjust the amount of jalapeño based on your spice preference. Removing the seeds reduces the heat.
- 1 garlic clove – Fresh garlic provides a pungent, aromatic base for the sauce.
- ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt – Sour cream gives the sauce a rich, tangy flavor, while Greek yogurt offers a healthier, tangier alternative.
- 2 tbsp mayo – Mayonnaise adds creaminess and richness to the sauce.
- Juice of ½ lime – Lime juice brightens the sauce with a citrusy tang.
- Salt to taste – Balances the flavors of the sauce.
To Assemble:
- Corn or flour tortillas – Corn tortillas offer a more authentic taco experience, while flour tortillas are softer and more pliable.
- Shredded cabbage or lettuce – Cabbage adds a refreshing crunch, while lettuce provides a milder, more traditional taco base.
- Cilantro, lime wedges – Fresh cilantro adds a vibrant, herbal note, while lime wedges provide an extra burst of citrus.
Preparation:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken with BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will become. This step allows the chicken to absorb the smoky and sweet flavors of the BBQ sauce and paprika. For a deeper flavor profile, consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of brown sugar to the marinade.
Step 2: Prepare the Jalapeño Garlic Sauce: While the chicken is marinating, prepare the jalapeño garlic sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine the seeded jalapeño, garlic clove, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, and lime juice. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and season with salt to taste. If you prefer a spicier sauce, leave some of the jalapeño seeds in. For a smoother sauce, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken and Pineapple: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). At the same time, grill the pineapple chunks or rings for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are slightly charred and caramelized. Grilling the chicken to perfection is key. Avoid overcooking, which can result in dry, tough chicken. The caramelized pineapple adds a burst of sweetness that complements the smoky chicken.
Step 4: Slice the Chicken and Pineapple: Once the chicken and pineapple are grilled, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. Slice the chicken into thin strips and the pineapple into smaller pieces if using rings.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos: Warm the tortillas according to package instructions. Layer shredded cabbage or lettuce on each tortilla. Top with grilled chicken, grilled pineapple, and a generous drizzle of jalapeño garlic sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This recipe is a winner for so many reasons! First, the combination of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors is simply irresistible. The grilled pineapple adds a tropical twist that perfectly complements the BBQ chicken, while the jalapeño garlic sauce provides a creamy, spicy kick. Second, these tacos are incredibly versatile. You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your preferences. Use different types of BBQ sauce, add other toppings like avocado or pickled onions, or swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu. Third, this recipe is relatively quick and easy to make, making it perfect for a weeknight meal. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make these tacos a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. Finally, these tacos are always a crowd-pleaser. They are perfect for parties, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with a unique and delicious dish.
Serving Suggestions:
These tacos are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving them with:
- Mexican rice
- Black beans
- Corn salad
- Guacamole and tortilla chips
- A simple green salad
Tips:
- For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
- Grill the pineapple until it is slightly charred and caramelized for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeño in the sauce based on your spice preference.
- Warm the tortillas before assembling the tacos for a softer, more pliable texture.
- Get creative with your toppings! Add avocado, pickled onions, or any other ingredients you enjoy.
- Leftover chicken and pineapple can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, per taco)
- Calories: 350-450
- Protein: 25-35g
- Sodium: 400-600mg
Conclusion:
These Grilled Pineapple BBQ Chicken Tacos with Jalapeño Garlic Sauce are a delicious and flavorful meal that is sure to become a family favorite. The combination of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors is simply irresistible, and the recipe is easy to customize to suit your preferences. Whether you are hosting a backyard BBQ or simply looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, these tacos are a perfect choice. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a taste of summer! This dish brings together elements of different cuisines, making it a global fusion experience. The sweetness of the pineapple, the tang of the lime, and the heat of the jalapeño all dance together to create a memorable culinary journey.
5 Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
- Q: Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
- A: Yes, you can use canned pineapple rings or chunks in a pinch. However, fresh pineapple will provide a much better flavor and texture. Be sure to drain the canned pineapple well before grilling.
- Q: How can I make this recipe spicier?
- A: To make the recipe spicier, you can add more jalapeño to the sauce, or leave some of the seeds in. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade or the sauce.
- Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
- A: Yes, you can substitute the chicken with other types of meat, such as shrimp, pork, or steak. You can also use tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Q: What is the best way to warm the tortillas?
- A: There are several ways to warm tortillas. You can warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds per side, or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them for 20-30 seconds. You can also warm them in the oven by wrapping them in foil and baking them at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
- Q: Can I make the jalapeño garlic sauce ahead of time?
- A: Yes, the jalapeño garlic sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. In fact, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more flavorful sauce.
