If you’re craving a burst of tropical flavor combined with smoky, tangy goodness, the Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Tacos Recipe is a must-try dish that brings sunshine to your dinner table. Imagine tender shredded chicken simmered in a vibrant BBQ sauce blended perfectly with juicy crushed pineapple, all wrapped up in soft flour tortillas. This recipe marries simplicity and bold taste effortlessly, making it an ideal choice for casual gatherings or a fun family meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these flavorful Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Tacos Recipe. Each component plays a key role: the shredded chicken offers a hearty base, the BBQ sauce delivers smokiness and depth, and the pineapple adds that signature tropical sweetness and moisture.
- 4 cups cooked and shredded chicken: Use leftover chicken or rotisserie for convenience and tender texture.
- 1 cup BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite tangy or sweet BBQ sauce to infuse rich flavor.
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (undrained): Adds juicy sweetness and a tropical twist that perfectly balances the BBQ sauce.
- Salt & ground black pepper (to taste): Enhances and rounds out all the flavors in the filling.
- 12 small soft flour taco shells: Opt for 5 to 6 inch tortillas for easy taco folding and serving.
- Fresh lime and cilantro (for serving): Lime brightens the dish with citrusy zest, while cilantro adds fresh herbal notes.
- Pineapple slaw (optional, for serving): Offers a crunchy, refreshing contrast that complements the warm filling.
How to Make Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Tacos Recipe
Step 1: Combine Chicken, BBQ Sauce, and Pineapple
Start by placing your cooked shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, and undrained crushed pineapple into a large skillet. This trio is at the heart of the Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Tacos Recipe, where sweetness and smokiness blend to create an irresistible filling. Season it generously with salt and ground black pepper to bring all the flavors together.
Step 2: Simmer Until Juicy and Flavorful
Turn the heat to medium or medium-high and stir the mixture well. Allow it to come to a gentle simmer, then let it cook for 5 to 10 minutes. Stir often to prevent sticking and to help the juices reduce slightly. As it thickens, the chicken absorbs all those wonderful flavors, becoming juicy and bursting with the signature BBQ and pineapple notes.
Step 3: Warm Taco Shells and Serve
While the chicken simmers, gently warm your flour tortillas until they are soft and pliable—this helps prevent any cracking or breakage when you assemble. When ready, spoon the luscious BBQ chicken mixture into each shell. Don’t forget to add your fresh lime wedges and cilantro on the side to brighten every bite. If you’re feeling adventurous, top with a crisp pineapple slaw for an added texture and flavor punch.
How to Serve Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Tacos Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing completes these tacos like fresh garnishes. A squeeze of lime brings a refreshing acidity that cuts through the sweet and smoky filling, while chopped cilantro adds vibrant green color and a fresh, slightly citrusy flavor. Pineapple slaw, if you use it, adds a crunchy texture and enhances the tropical theme of the dish perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Tacos Recipe with light and complementary sides such as a simple green salad, black beans, or even a coconut rice to keep with the island vibe. These sides balance the richness of the tacos and elevate your meal into a complete, satisfying feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests? Serve the tacos family-style with all the toppings laid out in colorful bowls so everyone can customize their own. Another fun idea is to place the chicken filling on mini tortilla chips for a taco-inspired appetizer. Using edible flowers or fresh herbs as decoration can also add a show-stopping touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Tacos Recipe filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save the filling longer, it freezes beautifully. Portion the chicken mixture into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken filling gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. To refresh the taco shells, wrap them in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes or microwave covered with a damp paper towel for about 20 seconds.
FAQs
Can I use grilled chicken instead of cooked shredded chicken?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken adds an extra smoky flavor that pairs excellently with the BBQ sauce and pineapple. Just shred the grilled chicken before adding it to the skillet.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the shredded chicken with shredded jackfruit or a plant-based chicken substitute. These alternatives absorb the BBQ and pineapple flavors wonderfully.
What kind of BBQ sauce works best?
Use a BBQ sauce you love—whether that’s smoky, sweet, or spicy. A sweeter sauce complements the pineapple well, but feel free to customize based on your taste preferences.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Definitely. You can make the chicken filling a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just reheat it gently before serving to maintain that juicy, flavorful texture.
What other toppings can I add to these tacos?
Try diced avocado, pickled red onions, shredded cheese, or jalapeños for added creaminess, tang, or heat. These toppings bring additional layers of flavor and texture to your Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Tacos Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly joyful about sharing the Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Tacos Recipe with friends and family. Its perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors makes it a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish. Whether you’re making it for a casual weeknight or a festive get-together, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and let these tacos bring a little island sunshine to your table!
Print
Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Tacos Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 small tacos
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Description
These Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Tacos combine tender shredded chicken simmered in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce with crushed pineapple, delivering a juicy and flavorful filling. Served in soft flour tortillas with fresh lime, cilantro, and optional pineapple slaw, they bring a tropical twist to classic tacos perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Filling
- 4 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (undrained)
- Salt & ground black pepper, to taste
For Serving
- 12 small soft flour taco shells (5 to 6 inch tortillas)
- Fresh lime wedges
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Pineapple slaw (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, and crushed pineapple along with their juice in a large skillet. Season the mixture with salt and ground black pepper to your taste preference.
- Simmer the Filling: Stir the contents well and bring the skillet to a simmer over medium to medium-high heat. Let it cook for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the juices thicken slightly and the chicken is juicy and infused with flavor.
- Assemble Tacos: Warm the flour taco shells as desired. Spoon the hot chicken filling into each shell and garnish with fresh lime wedges and cilantro. Add pineapple slaw on top if you like an extra layer of crunch and tropical flavor. Serve immediately for best taste.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save prep time.
- Adjust the amount of BBQ sauce and pineapple based on your sweetness preference.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling while simmering.
- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for a soft and pliable texture.
- Pineapple slaw adds a refreshing crunch but can be omitted if preferred.
