Teriyaki Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Pear Salsa

When you’re craving something sweet, savory, and irresistibly fresh, there’s nothing quite like Teriyaki Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Pear Salsa. These tropical-inspired tacos are a fun twist on a classic weeknight meal—bold, juicy, and packed with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re planning Taco Tuesday, a summer dinner party, or just want something different and delicious, these tacos deliver.

This version takes tender teriyaki-glazed chicken and pairs it with a smoky-sweet pineapple pear salsa, creating the perfect fusion of Asian and tropical flair. Wrapped in soft tortillas and topped with your favorite garnishes, it’s comfort food with a gourmet edge.

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Why You’ll Love This Recip

Sweet & Savory Combo – Teriyaki glaze + grilled fruit = flavor perfection.
Easy to Make – Marinate, grill, toss in tortillas. Simple steps, big payoff.
Colorful & Fresh – Bright fruit salsa and crisp toppings make every bite pop.
Customizable – Add slaw, sriracha mayo, or avocado to make it your own.
Great for Meal Prep – Cook the chicken ahead and build your tacos on demand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Teriyaki Chicken:

• 1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• ½ cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Grilled Pineapple Pear Salsa:

• 1 cup diced fresh pineapple rings
• 1 ripe pear, diced
• ½ red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• Juice of 1 lime
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Pinch of salt

To Assemble:

• 6–8 small tortillas (flour or corn)
• Shredded cabbage or lettuce (optional)
• Sriracha mayo or creamy dressing (optional)
• Extra lime wedges for serving
• Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Tools You’ll Need

• Grill pan or outdoor grill
• Knife & cutting board
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs
• Citrus juicer (optional)
• Small skillet (if toasting tortillas)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine chicken, teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
Marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to overnight for best flavor).

Step 2: Grill the Pineapple

Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Grill pineapple slices for 2–3 minutes per side until charred with grill marks.
Let cool, then dice and mix with pear, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, cilantro, and salt. Set salsa aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Grill chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and caramelized.
Let rest for a few minutes, then slice into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Warm the Tortillas

In a dry skillet or over the grill, warm tortillas for 30 seconds per side until soft and pliable.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

Fill each tortilla with a few strips of chicken, a spoonful of pineapple pear salsa, and your desired toppings.
Drizzle with sauce and sprinkle with sesame seeds if using.

Tips for Perfect Teriyaki Chicken Tacos

Use Thighs for Juicier Chicken – They hold flavor and moisture better than breasts.
Char the Pineapple – That smoky-sweet caramelization is a game changer.
Prep Ahead – Marinate the chicken and make the salsa in advance for easy weeknight dinners.
Balance the Heat – Adjust jalapeño in the salsa to your spice level.
Don’t Skip the Lime – The zing from fresh lime ties all the flavors together beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

With a Side of Rice or Slaw – Great as part of a larger taco night spread.
Taco Bar Style – Set up all toppings and let guests build their own.
Pair with a Tropical Drink – Like pineapple juice, coconut water, or a fruity margarita.
Make It a Bowl – Skip the tortillas and serve over rice or greens for a fresh take.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Store grilled chicken and salsa separately in airtight containers. Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
Warm chicken gently in a skillet or microwave. Do not reheat the salsa—serve it fresh and cold.

Freezing:
Cooked chicken can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?
Absolutely—it’s a time-saver and works great.

Can I grill the pear too?
Yes! Grilled pear adds another layer of smoky sweetness if desired.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Try teriyaki-marinated tofu or grilled mushrooms instead of chicken.

What tortillas work best?
Flour tortillas are soft and flexible, while corn adds authentic flavor—either works!

Can I double the salsa?
Yes! It also tastes amazing with grilled fish or over rice bowls.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Tropical-Inspired

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