Name: Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Tacos with Pineapple Avocado Salsa Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breasts; 1 1/2 tablespoons Tajin seasoning (or chili lime seasoning); 3 tablespoons olive oil; 6 pineapple spears; Olive oil, for brushing or spraying; Kosher salt and pepper, to taste; 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and diced; 1 avocado, diced; ¼ cup diced red onion; ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro; 2 to 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice; Pinch of kosher salt and pepper; 8 to 12 flour tortillas (or corn tortillas if preferred); Crumbled cotija cheese; Pickled red onions

↓ Jump to Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that brings together smoky, tangy, and fresh flavors in every bite. The Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Tacos with Pineapple Avocado Salsa Recipe is a vibrant and irresistible way to enjoy tacos like never before. Tender chicken marinated in zesty chili lime seasoning meets the sweet and creamy pineapple avocado salsa, creating an explosion of tastes that will have you reaching for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, this recipe promises a fun, colorful, and delicious meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to prepare.

Ingredients You'll Need

A metal tray holds four grilled soft white tortillas with brown grill marks on the bottom right, three pieces of grilled chicken with a golden-brown color and dark grill lines on the bottom left, and six thick pieces of grilled pineapple with yellow color and dark grill marks placed along the top half of the tray. The tray is placed on a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe shines because of its simple yet intentional ingredients, each chosen to build the perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and freshness. From the bold chili lime seasoning to the creamy avocado, every element plays a key role in the flavor, texture, and visual appeal of these tacos.

Chicken breasts (1 pound): The lean protein base that grills up juicy and flavorful.

Tajin seasoning or chili lime seasoning (1 ½ tablespoons): For that signature tangy, spicy kick that defines the dish.
Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Helps marinate and keeps the chicken tender while grilling.
Pineapple spears (6): Adds natural sweetness and a charred smokiness when grilled.

Kosher salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and highlighting flavors.
Jalapeño pepper (1, seeded and diced): Adds a fresh, mild heat to the salsa.
Avocado (1, diced): Brings creaminess and balances the spice perfectly.

Red onion (¼ cup, diced): Adds a crisp, slightly sharp bite to the salsa.
Fresh cilantro (¼ cup, chopped): Brings a bright, herbal freshness that lifts the whole dish.
Freshly squeezed lime juice (2 to 3 tablespoons): Adds acidity to brighten flavors and marry the salsa ingredients.

Flour or corn tortillas (8 to 12): Your taco foundation; warming them on the grill adds delightful smoky undertones.
Crumbled cotija cheese: A salty, crumbly topping that enriches each taco bite.
Pickled red onions: Offers tang and a pop of color to finish the tacos.

How to Make Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Tacos with Pineapple Avocado Salsa Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by tossing your chicken breasts in the Tajin or chili lime seasoning until evenly coated. Adding olive oil helps the marinade cling to the chicken and keeps it moist while grilling. Let it rest and absorb those vibrant flavors for at least 30 minutes or, for maximum deliciousness, pop it in the fridge overnight. This rest time is where the magic starts.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

About 30 minutes before you're ready to cook, remove the chicken from the fridge so it can come to room temperature. Preheat your grill on high for about 10 minutes to get those perfect searing temperatures that create beautiful char marks and seal in the juices.

Step 3: Prepare Pineapple for Grilling

While the grill heats, brush the pineapple spears lightly with olive oil, then sprinkle with a little salt and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness. Setting them aside on a baking sheet keeps the prep neat and ready for the grill.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken directly on the hot grates and let it cook for roughly five minutes on each side. Look for a gorgeous golden, slightly charred appearance and check that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. When the chicken is done, set it aside to rest for about 10 minutes — this keeps it ultra juicy.

Step 5: Grill the Pineapple and Tortillas

Place your pineapple spears on the grill alongside the tortillas to get enticing grill marks and add a smoky layer of flavor. Grill the pineapple for just a few minutes per side until caramelized. For the tortillas, a quick minute or two on each side is enough to warm and add subtle char — then keep them wrapped in foil or on a low heat until serving.

Step 6: Make the Pineapple Avocado Salsa

Chop the grilled pineapple into bite-sized pieces and combine it in a bowl with diced jalapeño, creamy avocado, red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything gently, allowing the flavors to meld into a colorful, fresh salsa that perfectly complements the smoky chicken.

Step 7: Assemble Your Tacos

Chop the rested chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces and pile it onto the warmed tortillas. Top generously with the pineapple avocado salsa, then finish with crumbled cotija cheese and a few pickled red onions for extra zing and texture. Serve immediately for the best experience!

How to Serve Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Tacos with Pineapple Avocado Salsa Recipe

Two small soft white tortillas are folded and placed side by side on a white plate over a white marbled surface. Each tortilla holds a layer of grilled, lightly browned chicken pieces at the bottom. On top, there are bright yellow pineapple chunks mixed with finely chopped green herbs and small pieces of red onion. Thin loops of pickled pink onions rest on each taco, and a light dusting of white crumbly cheese is sprinkled over everything and on the plate. A wedge of lime sits near the edge of the plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Beyond the main toppings, feel free to add a sprinkle of extra cilantro or a drizzle of fresh lime juice right before serving. A dollop of sour cream or a few slices of radish can add coolness and crunch, lifting the dish even higher.

Side Dishes

Pair these tacos with simple sides like Mexican street corn (elote), black bean salad, or a light green salad tossed with lime vinaigrette. These sides complement the bold flavors without overpowering the star of the show.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, try serving the tacos on a wooden board with small bowls of salsa, cheese, and pickled onions on the side. Alternatively, turn this recipe into a taco bar where everyone can customize their own, making it perfect for casual get-togethers or family meals.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the grilled chicken separately from the salsa and tortillas in airtight containers. This will keep each component tasting fresh and prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy or the salsa from wilting.

Freezing

The cooked chicken can be frozen for up to two months. Just cool it completely before sealing it in a freezer-safe bag or container. The salsa is best made fresh, so avoid freezing it to preserve its vibrant texture and flavor.

Reheating

Gently reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or microwave it until just warmed through to prevent drying out. Warm the tortillas on a skillet or in the oven wrapped in foil. Add fresh salsa after reheating for the best taste.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a bit more forgiving on the grill and stay juicy, but you may need to adjust cooking time slightly since thighs can be thicker and fattier.

What if I don’t have a grill? Can I cook the chicken another way?

Yes, you can cook the chicken on a grill pan, cast-iron skillet, or even under the broiler. Just watch closely for charring and make sure the chicken reaches a safe 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Is this recipe spicy? Can I adjust the heat level?

The recipe has a gentle heat from the Tajin seasoning and jalapeño, but you can easily adjust by adding less jalapeño or choosing a milder seasoning blend. For more spice, add some chipotle powder or extra diced jalapeño.

Can I make the salsa ahead of time?

You can prepare the salsa a few hours in advance and refrigerate it, but it’s best to add the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and prevent browning.

Can I use hard corn tortillas instead of flour?

Yes! Hard corn tortillas work beautifully and add a wonderful crunch. Just be gentle when assembling to keep them from breaking.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the way the flavors come together in this Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Tacos with Pineapple Avocado Salsa Recipe. It’s a celebration of bold, fresh ingredients combined in the simplest way to create a meal that feels festive and satisfying. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own — whether it’s a midweek treat or the star of your next get-together, these tacos are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Tacos with Pineapple Avocado Salsa Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need