Teriyaki Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Pear Salsa

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Introduction

Teriyaki Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Pear Salsa are the perfect fusion dish that takes taco night to a whole new level. Imagine tender, juicy chicken marinated in a rich teriyaki sauce, grilled to perfection, and topped with a vibrant salsa made from smoky grilled pineapple and ripe pears. The result is a perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that dance on your taste buds. These tacos are fresh, exciting, and sure to impress anyone looking for a unique twist on a classic favorite.

The first time I made these tacos, I was amazed at how the sweet pineapple and pear salsa complemented the savory teriyaki chicken. Grilling the pineapple and pear gave them a caramelized, smoky sweetness that added depth to the dish. The tacos were bursting with flavor, and the combination of textures—from the crispy tortilla to the juicy chicken and fruit salsa—was absolutely delicious.

What I love most about these Teriyaki Chicken Tacos is their versatility. They’re perfect for a fun taco night, a summer BBQ, or any time you want to switch things up and wow your guests. You can customize the salsa with other fruits like mango or even add a touch of heat with jalapeños for an extra kick. No matter how you serve them, these tacos are guaranteed to be a hit and bring a refreshing tropical vibe to your next gathering.

Perfect for:

  • Taco nights
  • Summer parties
  • Family dinners
  • BBQs and cookouts
  • Tropical flavor lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Teriyaki Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Pear Salsa will become a favorite in your rotation:

  • Perfect Flavor Balance: The savory teriyaki chicken combined with the smoky-sweet salsa creates a delightful contrast of flavors.
  • Fresh and Vibrant: Grilled pineapple and pear add freshness and a touch of smokiness to the salsa, enhancing the taco experience.
  • Quick and Easy: The chicken marinating process is simple, and grilling the pineapple and pear takes no time at all.
  • Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite taco toppings like avocado, cilantro, or sour cream for extra flair.
  • Healthy and Light: Grilled chicken and fresh salsa make this dish light and healthy, yet filling and satisfying.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 28g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Teriyaki Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Pear Salsa:

For the Teriyaki Chicken:

  • 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • ¼ cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker sauce)

For the Grilled Pineapple Pear Salsa:

  • 1 cup fresh pineapple, peeled and diced
  • 1 pear, peeled, cored, and diced
  • 1 small red onion, finely diced
  • 1 jalapeño, deseeded and minced (optional, for heat)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Tacos:

  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • Avocado slices (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
  • Lime wedges (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Teriyaki Sauce: The combination of soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil gives the chicken a deliciously savory and slightly sweet flavor.
  • Grilled Pineapple and Pear: Grilling the fruit enhances the sweetness and adds a smoky element that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken.
  • Fresh Cilantro and Lime: These fresh ingredients bring brightness and balance to the tacos and salsa.
  • Tortillas: Soft, warm tortillas act as the perfect base for the flavorful chicken and salsa combination.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve cornstarch in 1 tablespoon of water and add it to the marinade.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour for more flavor.

Prepare the Grilled Pineapple Pear Salsa:

  1. Grill the Fruit: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the pineapple and pear slices for about 2-3 minutes per side until grill marks form and the fruit softens slightly.
  2. Chop the Salsa Ingredients: Once the fruit is grilled, dice it into small pieces. Combine the grilled pineapple, pear, red onion, jalapeño (if using), cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Cook the Chicken:

  1. Grill the Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  2. Slice the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

Assemble the Tacos:

  1. Warm the Tortillas: Heat the tortillas on the grill or in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side, just until warm and slightly charred.
  2. Assemble the Tacos: Place a few slices of teriyaki chicken on each tortilla. Top with a generous spoonful of grilled pineapple pear salsa. Optionally, add avocado slices, cilantro leaves, and a squeeze of lime juice.

How to Serve

  • Casual Taco Night: Serve these tacos with sides like Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh salad.
  • For a Lighter Meal: Enjoy the tacos on their own with a side of crispy tortilla chips or guacamole.
  • At a BBQ: These tacos are perfect for outdoor grilling and pair well with refreshing drinks like iced tea or margaritas.
  • With Extra Salsa: Serve the salsa on the side as a refreshing dip with tortilla chips for an appetizer.

Additional Tips

  • Marinate Longer for More Flavor: If you have time, marinate the chicken for up to 1 hour to allow the flavors to really soak in.
  • Grill the Fruit to Perfection: Keep an eye on the pineapple and pear while grilling to ensure they don’t burn. You want nice grill marks without overcooking the fruit.
  • Customize Your Salsa: Feel free to add other fruits like mango or peach to the salsa for extra sweetness or use different herbs like mint for a unique twist.
  • Add Heat to the Salsa: If you like your salsa spicy, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a pinch of chili flakes.
  • Use Leftover Chicken: The marinated and grilled chicken can be used in other dishes like salads, rice bowls, or sandwiches the next day.

Recipe Variations

  1. Mango Chicken Tacos: Swap out the pear for mango for a tropical twist.
  2. Spicy Teriyaki Tacos: Add extra sriracha to the teriyaki sauce for a spicy kick.
  3. Vegetarian Tacos: Replace the chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
  4. BBQ Chicken Tacos: Swap the teriyaki sauce for your favorite barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor.
  5. Pineapple Coconut Salsa: Add shredded coconut to the pineapple pear salsa for a tropical, creamy texture.
  6. Crispy Chicken Tacos: Coat the chicken in panko breadcrumbs and fry for a crispy texture.
  7. Avocado Crema Tacos: Top the tacos with a creamy avocado sauce instead of sliced avocado for extra richness.
  8. Tropical Slaw Tacos: Add a crunchy slaw made with cabbage, pineapple, and cilantro for added texture.
  9. Spicy Grilled Chicken: Marinate the chicken with a spicy chili marinade for extra heat.
  10. Lime Cilantro Rice Tacos: Serve the tacos with a side of lime cilantro rice for a full meal.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken (without the salsa) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat when ready to serve.
  • Storage: Store leftover salsa in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat chicken or serve it cold in salads or wraps.

Special Equipment

  • Grill or Grill Pan
  • Knife and Cutting Board
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Tongs
  • Meat Thermometer

FAQ

  1. Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?
    Yes, store-bought teriyaki sauce works just fine if you’re short on time. Just make sure to choose a good-quality sauce.
  2. Can I make the salsa ahead of time?
    Yes, you can prepare the salsa a few hours ahead and refrigerate it, but it’s best served fresh to preserve the texture of the grilled fruit.
  3. Can I make these tacos with fish?
    Absolutely! Grilled fish like mahi-mahi or salmon would pair wonderfully with the teriyaki sauce and salsa.
  4. Can I make the chicken in a skillet instead of grilling it?
    Yes, you can cook the chicken in a skillet on medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side.
  5. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
    Yes, feel free to use flour tortillas if you prefer a softer, chewier texture.

Conclusion

Teriyaki Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Pear Salsa are a fun and flavorful twist on traditional tacos. The savory teriyaki chicken pairs perfectly with the smoky sweetness of the grilled fruit salsa, creating a unique and delicious flavor combination. These tacos are perfect for a summer dinner, taco night, or any time you want to enjoy a tropical-inspired meal that’s sure to impress.

The grilled pineapple and pear salsa adds a fresh, vibrant touch, balancing the richness of the teriyaki chicken. Wrapped in a soft tortilla, these tacos are a feast for the senses—tender, juicy chicken combined with the juicy fruit salsa and a hint of smoky char.

I can’t wait to see how you make these Teriyaki Chicken Tacos your own! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see your creations. Don’t forget to share your twist on this recipe in the comments. Happy cooking!

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