Teriyaki Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Pear Salsa

Welcome to a delightful culinary journey with our Teriyaki Chicken Tacos featuring a vibrant Grilled Pineapple Pear Salsa. This recipe blends the rich, umami flavors of teriyaki sauce with the fresh, fruity notes of pineapple and pear, all wrapped in a soft taco shell.

(Source: USDA)

Why You’ll Love This

These tacos are not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy indoor dinners, they offer a unique twist on traditional tacos with their Asian-inspired flavors.

Ingredients

• 500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) teriyaki sauce
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon (5g) ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) honey
• 1 fresh pineapple, peeled and sliced
• 2 ripe pears, diced
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup (15g) fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small taco shells
• 1 cup (240g) shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 jalapeño, sliced

Ingredient Notes (What & Why)

• Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier tacos. (Source: FDA)
• Substitute teriyaki sauce with homemade if preferred. (Source: BBC Good Food)
• Fresh pineapple is ideal, but canned can be used in a pinch. (Source: Serious Eats)
• Choose ripe pears for the best flavor profile. (Source: Bon Appétit)
• Adjust jalapeño to taste for desired heat level.

Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowls
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Tongs
• Meat thermometer
• Spoon
• Basting brush
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Serving platter

Timing & Temperature Guide

• Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes.
• Grill chicken at 200°C (400°F).
• Cook chicken for 6-8 minutes per side.
• Grill pineapple for 2-3 minutes per side.
• Warm taco shells for 1 minute per side.
• Rest chicken for 5 minutes before slicing.
• Internal chicken temperature should reach 75°C (165°F).
• Assemble and serve tacos immediately.

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken thighs in a mixture of teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and honey. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 200°C/400°F).
3. Grill the marinated chicken thighs for 6-8 minutes per side, until fully cooked and slightly charred. Internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F).
4. Remove chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
5. While the chicken is grilling, place the pineapple slices on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until caramelized.
6. Dice the grilled pineapple and combine with diced pears, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper to make the salsa.
7. Warm the taco shells on the grill or in a dry skillet for about 1 minute on each side.
8. Assemble the tacos by layering shredded lettuce, sliced chicken, and grilled pineapple pear salsa in each shell.
9. Top with a dollop of sour cream, sliced avocado, and jalapeño slices.
10. Serve immediately, ensuring the tacos remain warm and crispy.

Culinary Science Notes

• Marinating chicken enhances flavor through osmosis.
• Grilling caramelizes natural sugars in pineapple, intensifying sweetness.
• Resting meat allows juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
• Acidic lime juice in salsa prevents enzymatic browning in pears.
• Using a meat thermometer ensures safe cooking temperatures.
• Grilling imparts a smoky flavor through Maillard reaction.
• Warm tortillas are more pliable and less likely to break.
• Combining fats from avocado and meat enhances flavor perception.

Pro Tips

• Ensure the chicken is fully marinated for maximum flavor absorption.
• Resting the grilled chicken keeps it juicy when sliced.
• Caramelize the pineapple for added sweetness.
• Warm taco shells enhance texture and flavor integration.
• Use a meat thermometer to check chicken doneness.

Variations

• Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
• Try a mango salsa instead of pineapple and pear.
• Add a drizzle of sriracha for extra spice.
• Include grilled bell peppers for more texture.
• Substitute chicken with grilled shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Use tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
• Add shredded cheese for a richer flavor.
• Top with crushed peanuts for crunch.
• Incorporate a squeeze of orange juice in the salsa for citrusy notes.
• Use a smoked paprika rub on the chicken before marinating for depth.
• Swap cilantro with basil for an aromatic change.

Substitutions

• Replace teriyaki sauce with soy sauce and brown sugar mix.
• Swap sesame oil with olive oil if unavailable.
• Use canned pineapple if fresh isn’t available.
• Substitute lime juice with lemon juice.
• Replace red onion with shallots for a milder taste.
• Use iceberg lettuce instead of shredded lettuce.
• Choose vegan sour cream for a plant-based option.
• Substitute jalapeño with serrano peppers for more heat.
• Use canned pears if fresh is out of season.
• Try whole wheat tortillas for a healthier base.
• Replace avocado with guacamole for a creamier texture.
• Opt for chicken breast if you prefer leaner meat.

Dietary Adaptations

• Opt for gluten-free tortillas for a gluten-free meal.
• Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt content.
• Select dairy-free sour cream for lactose intolerance.
• Replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan option.
• Use tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian adaptation.
• Choose avocado oil for a paleo-friendly version.
• Avoid tortillas for a low-carb bowl option.
• Add more veggies like zucchini to increase fiber.

Serving Suggestions & Menu Ideas

• Serve with a side of Mexican-style rice.
• Pair with a fresh green salad.
• Offer additional lime wedges for squeezing.
• Provide hot sauce for those who enjoy extra heat.
• Serve alongside a bowl of tortilla chips and salsa.
• Pair with a light lager or iced tea.
• Include a side of refried beans.
• Offer pickled jalapeños as a topping.
• Serve with corn on the cob for a complete meal.
• Garnish with extra cilantro for freshness.

Menu Ideas

• Include in a taco bar for a party.
• Serve as part of a summer barbecue spread.
• Pair with Asian-inspired dishes for a fusion meal.
• Include in a weekend family dinner lineup.
• Serve with tropical cocktails for a themed night.
• Pair with grilled vegetables for a healthy option.
• Include in a potluck for a crowd-pleasing dish.
• Add to a game-day menu for a unique twist.

Seasonal Variations

• Use mango when in season for the salsa.
• Incorporate kiwi for a winter variation.
• Add fresh corn kernels in summer.
• Use pomegranate seeds for a festive look during holidays.
• Try butternut squash for an autumn twist.
• Use strawberries in spring for a sweet contrast.
• Include asparagus during spring grilling.
• Add watermelon for a refreshing summer touch.

Troubleshooting & Common Mistakes

• If chicken is dry, reduce grilling time.
• Salsa too watery? Drain excess juice before serving.
• Tacos breaking? Warm them properly to increase pliability.
• Chicken lacks flavor? Increase marinating time.
• Salsa too sweet? Add more lime juice to balance.
• Chicken undercooked? Ensure internal temperature is 75°C (165°F).
• Pineapple not caramelizing? Increase grill heat slightly.
• Avocado browning? Add more lime juice to prevent oxidation.
• Tacos too spicy? Reduce jalapeño or remove seeds.
• Salsa bland? Add more cilantro and lime juice.
• Chicken sticking to grill? Ensure grill is well-oiled.
• Taco shells too soft? Warm them less time or use a dry skillet.
• Skipping marinade reduces flavor depth.
• Overcooking chicken leads to dryness.
• Using cold ingredients leads to uneven cooking.
• Neglecting taco warming causes breakage.
• Overloading tacos can make them messy to eat.
• Using unripe fruit results in less flavorful salsa.
• Ignoring resting period causes juice loss.
• Using low-quality tortillas affects texture.
• Neglecting to taste salsa before serving.
• Forgetting to clean grill grates affects taste.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating

You can prepare the salsa up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor.

Warm the tacos and assemble just before serving for best results.

Store leftover chicken and salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep tortillas in a sealed bag to prevent drying out.

Reheat chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds.

Assemble tacos just before serving.

Freezing, Leftovers & Scaling

Freeze chicken and salsa separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Creative Leftover Ideas

• Use leftover chicken in a salad.
• Add to a stir-fry for a quick meal.
• Make a chicken and cheese quesadilla.
• Top a baked potato with chicken and salsa.
• Create chicken and rice bowls.
• Add to a soup for extra protein.
• Use as a filling for enchiladas.
• Serve in a wrap with fresh veggies.

To scale the recipe, simply multiply the ingredients by the desired number of servings. Adjust grilling time slightly if cooking larger batches at once.

Budget Notes & Substitutions

Using seasonal fruits and vegetables can reduce costs. Chicken thighs are generally more affordable than breasts.

Buying in bulk can also lower expenses.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approx. 450 per serving
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 15g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 820mg
• Vitamin C: 35mg
• Calcium: 100mg
• Iron: 3mg
• Potassium: 700mg
• Vitamin A: 400IU
• Magnesium: 50mg

Background & Origins

Tacos are a traditional Mexican dish, but fusion tacos have gained popularity worldwide. The blend of teriyaki chicken with tropical fruits is a modern twist, showcasing global culinary influences.

Teriyaki sauce, originating from Japan, adds an umami-rich flavor that balances well with the sweetness of fruits.

Glossary of Terms

Teriyaki Sauce

A Japanese sauce made with soy sauce, sake, and sugar, used for marinating and glazing.

Marinade

A seasoned liquid used to soak foods before cooking to enhance flavor and tenderness.

Caramelization

The browning of sugars, a process used in cooking to enhance flavor.

Umami

A taste category associated with savory, meaty flavors.

Maillard Reaction

A chemical reaction between amino acids and sugars that gives browned foods their distinctive flavor.

Resting Meat

Allowing cooked meat to sit before slicing to retain juices.

Pliability

The quality of being flexible or easily bent, important for tortillas.

Enzymatic Browning

A chemical process which occurs in fruits, causing them to turn brown.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but be cautious as breasts can dry out more quickly. Monitor the internal temperature closely.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free tortillas and ensure your teriyaki sauce is gluten-free.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Greek yogurt or a vegan sour cream are great substitutes.

Is there a non-spicy alternative to jalapeños?

You can omit jalapeños or use bell peppers for a mild flavor.

How can I make the salsa less sweet?

Add more lime juice and a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

Can I prepare the chicken in advance?

Yes, marinate the chicken overnight for more flavor and grill just before serving.

How do I keep the tortillas from breaking?

Warm them on a skillet or grill before filling to make them more pliable.

What if I don’t have a grill?

You can use a grill pan or oven broiler to achieve similar results.

Can I freeze the salsa?

Freezing salsa is not recommended as it can become watery upon thawing.

How do I prevent the avocado from browning?

Toss avocado slices with lime juice to slow down oxidation.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, the components can be prepared in advance and assembled when ready to eat.

Can I add cheese to these tacos?

Absolutely, shredded cheddar or crumbled queso fresco would complement the flavors well.

Teriyaki Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Pear Salsa

Print

Servings4

Prep30m

Cook20m

Total50m

Calories450

Ingredients

• 500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) teriyaki sauce
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon (5g) ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) honey
• 1 fresh pineapple, peeled and sliced
• 2 ripe pears, diced
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup (15g) fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small taco shells
• 1 cup (240g) shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 jalapeño, sliced

Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken thighs in a mixture of teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and honey. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 200°C/400°F).
3. Grill the marinated chicken thighs for 6-8 minutes per side, until fully cooked and slightly charred. Internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F).
4. Remove chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
5. While the chicken is grilling, place the pineapple slices on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until caramelized.
6. Dice the grilled pineapple and combine with diced pears, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper to make the salsa.
7. Warm the taco shells on the grill or in a dry skillet for about 1 minute on each side.
8. Assemble the tacos by layering shredded lettuce, sliced chicken, and grilled pineapple pear salsa in each shell.
9. Top with a dollop of sour cream, sliced avocado, and jalapeño slices.
10. Serve immediately, ensuring the tacos remain warm and crispy.

Notes:

• Ensure the chicken is fully marinated for maximum flavor absorption.
• Resting the grilled chicken keeps it juicy when sliced.
• Caramelize the pineapple for added sweetness.
• Warm taco shells enhance texture and flavor integration.
• Use a meat thermometer to check chicken doneness.