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BBQ Chicken Tacos with Pineapple Salsa

Name: BBQ Chicken Tacos with Pineapple Salsa
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 lb. chicken breasts (boneless, skinless); 1 tsp cayenne pepper; 2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp paprika; 1 tbsp coconut sugar or brown sugar; salt & pepper to taste; 1/2 cup barbecue sauce; 2 cups frozen pineapple (defrosted); 1 jalapeño pepper (deseeded and chopped); 2 avocados (diced); 1/2 lime (juiced); 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped); Corn tortillas; Lime wedges

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These BBQ Chicken Tacos with Pineapple Salsa are made in the Instant Pot or slow cooker. They are sweet and spicy and perfect for busy nights!

bowl of lime wedges, bowl of pineapple salsa

What you need for this taco & pineapple salsa recipe

Chicken

Chicken breasts
Cayenne pepper
Garlic powder
Paprika
Coconut sugar or brown sugar
Salt & pepper
Barbecue sauce- I used this one from Trader Joe’s, but any kind will work

Pineapple Salsa

Pineapple- I used frozen pineapple and defrosted it, but fresh will work great in this recipe
Jalapeño pepper
Avocados
Lime
Cilantro

How to make bbq chicken

The chicken can be made in a pressure cooker (Instant Pot) or slow cooker.

Pressure cooker

If you are using a pressure cooker you will add chicken breasts, spices and barbecue sauce to the pot, then cover it, seal the vent and cook on high pressure for 30 minutes or low pressure for 1 1/2 hours. When done, release the pressure and shred chicken with two forks or a handheld mixer. Stir in additional barbecue sauce if needed.

Slow cooker

If you are using a slow cooker you will add chicken breasts, spices and barbecue sauce to the pot, then cover it and cook on low for 6 hours and high for 4 hours. When chicken is done, shred with two forks or a handheld mixer. Stir in additional barbecue sauce if needed.

How to make pineapple salsa

I used frozen pineapple chunks for this recipe. I defrosted them by placing a strainer over a bowl, to catch the liquid, on the counter for a few hours. You can use freshly diced pineapple, however, I find frozen pineapple to be easier because it cuts down on prep time.

I added the pineapple to a bowl along with a seeded and chopped jalapeño (devein the jalapeño for less spice), peeled and diced avocado, juice from 1/2 of a lime and chopped cilantro. I then mixed the salsa together using a spoon. Super simple!

Additionally, you can add in a diced red bell pepper or red onion for different flavor and color.

three bbq chicken tacos with pineapple avocado salsa on a plate

How to heat tortillas

I love heating corn tortillas over an open flame (medium heat) for about 15 seconds per side until slightly charred.

Additional ways to heat tortillas:

Place tortillas in a lightly oiled skillet then heat for 30 sec-1 minute per side
Wrap tortillas in foil then cook in the oven at 350 degrees for 5-10 minutes
Place tortillas on a plate, top with a damp paper towel then cook in the microwave for 30 sec-1 minute

I hope you enjoy this recipe. Serve it with my Spicy Watermelon Margaritas and enjoy the perfect taco night!

Check out these other taco recipes:

Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos

Korean Steak Tacos

If you make this recipe, comment below and tag me on Instagram! xo, Sarah

3 tacos with pineapple salsa on plate with bowl of lime wedges

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