I’m a huge fan of bold, tropical flavors—and these Jerk Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Slaw are everything I crave in the summer.

Spicy jerk-marinated chicken is grilled to perfection and tucked into warm tortillas, then topped with a sweet-and-tangy grilled pineapple slaw and finished with a drizzle of cooling lime crema.

It’s a tropical flavor explosion in every bite—and a feast for the eyes, too.

These Jerk Chicken Tacos are a vibrant blend of flavors and textures that will elevate your taco night.

Made with juicy boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs marinated in a tantalizing jerk spice mix, these tacos are not just a meal, they are an experience.

The addition of grilled pineapple slaw adds a refreshing crunch that perfectly complements the spicy chicken.

Imagine biting into a warm tortilla filled with succulent jerk chicken, topped with a sweet and tangy grilled pineapple slaw.

The combination of spices like smoked paprika and cayenne pepper brings the heat, while the honey in the slaw balances it with a touch of sweetness.

This dish is sure to impress your family and friends.

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Here’s Why You’ll Love My Jerk Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Slaw

The contrast is what makes these tacos shine—fiery, aromatic jerk chicken cooled by juicy grilled pineapple and crisp cabbage slaw.

A hint of lime and a touch of creaminess from the crema tie it all together. These tacos are easy enough for a weeknight but festive enough for a summer gathering.

Flavorful Jerk Chicken Tacos

Jerk chicken tacos offer a vibrant fusion of flavors that will surely enhance your taco night.

Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, these tacos are marinated in a mouthwatering blend of olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, and a medley of spices including garlic powder, onion powder, ground allspice, thyme, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.

The result is a juicy chicken that is both spicy and aromatic, setting the stage for an exciting meal. Each bite brings a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the fresh ingredients in the tacos.

Refreshing Grilled Pineapple Slaw

The grilled pineapple slaw adds an essential contrast to the spicy jerk chicken. Diced fresh pineapple is combined with shredded red cabbage and thinly sliced red onion, creating a colorful, crunchy topping that balances the heat of the meat.

A drizzle of honey and lime juice ties the slaw together, enhancing its sweet and tangy profile.

Chopped cilantro adds an herbal note, making each taco not just a meal but a delightful experience. This slaw is a vital component that elevates the overall dish.

Assembling the Tacos

To bring everything together, warm your tortillas on the grill just until they are pliable. Layer the grilled jerk chicken and the vibrant pineapple slaw directly on the soft tortillas.

Adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt provides a creamy finish that complements the spiciness.

Finally, garnish with extra cilantro for a pop of color and flavor, making the tacos even more enticing.

The combination of ingredients creates a visually appealing dish that is just as satisfying to eat as it is to look at.

Perfect Pairings

Serve with coconut rice, grilled corn on the cob, or crispy plantain chips for a full island-inspired spread.

A side of mango salsa or black bean salad also pairs beautifully. For drinks, think pineapple mojitos, Jamaican ginger beer, or ice-cold sparkling water with lime.

You can also serve these jerk chicken tacos with lime wedges on the side for an added zing. The acidity of the lime juice enhances the flavors and cuts through the richness of the chicken and slaw.

The vibrant colors and flavors of the dish will impress your guests and make any gathering feel festive.

Nutritional Benefits

Each taco delivers not only delicious flavor but also significant nutritional value. With about 420 calories per serving, these tacos provide a satisfying meal without overindulging.

The protein from the chicken contributes to muscle health, while the fresh vegetables ensure you’re getting a hearty dose of vitamins and minerals.

Using wholesome ingredients like olive oil and fresh produce enhances the overall health profile of your meal, making these jerk chicken tacos a fantastic choice for both flavor and nutrition.

The Experience of Enjoying Tacos

Eating jerk chicken tacos is not just about the flavors; it’s about the experience. The act of assembling your own taco and customizing it with your favorite toppings adds an interactive element to your meal.

The rustic wooden table setting, paired with the lively colors of the tacos and toppings, creates an inviting atmosphere that encourages sharing and enjoyment.

Whether for a casual family dinner or a lively gathering with friends, jerk chicken tacos are sure to be a hit.

Tips for the Best Jerk Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Slaw

  • Marinate your chicken for at least 1 hour—overnight is even better.
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  • Grill the pineapple until lightly charred to enhance its sweetness.
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  • Use soft flour or corn tortillas and warm them before filling.
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  • Don’t skip the crema—it cools the heat and adds richness.
Spicy Jerk Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Slaw
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Spicy Jerk Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple Slaw

Recipe by JoanneCourse: MainCuisine: Caribbean / FusionDifficulty: Moderate
Servings (makes 8 tacos)

4

servings
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

40

minutes
Calories

300

kcal

These tacos are a delightful fusion of spicy and sweet, featuring jerk-seasoned chicken paired with a colorful slaw. The tacos are bursting with flavor from the marinade infused with olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, and aromatic spices like thyme and cinnamon. The grilled pineapple slaw, made with diced fresh pineapple, shredded red cabbage, and chopped cilantro, adds a bright and refreshing element to each bite.

Ingredients

  • For the Jerk Chicken

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

  • 1 tablespoon lime juice

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1 teaspoon ground allspice

  • 1 teaspoon thyme

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • One-half teaspoon cinnamon

  • One-half teaspoon cayenne pepper

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • For the Grilled Pineapple Slaw

  • 1 cup diced fresh pineapple

  • 1 cup shredded red cabbage

  • One-third cup thinly sliced red onion

  • 1 tablespoon lime juice

  • 1 tablespoon honey

  • 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro

  • Pinch of salt

  • For the Lime Crema

  • One-third cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

  • Juice of one lime

  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro

  • Salt to taste

  • For Assembly

  • 8 small flour or corn tortillas

  • Extra chopped cilantro for garnish

  • Lime wedges

Directions

  • Marinate the Chicken
  • Combine olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, and all jerk seasonings in a bowl. Add chicken and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
  • Make the Crema
  • Mix sour cream, lime juice, cilantro, and salt in a small bowl. Refrigerate until ready to use.
  • Grill the Chicken
  • Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken for 6–7 minutes per side or until fully cooked. Let rest, then slice or chop.
  • Grill the Pineapple
  • Grill pineapple slices for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly charred. Dice and toss with cabbage, red onion, lime juice, honey, cilantro, and salt.
  • Warm the Tortillas
  • Toast tortillas on the grill or a dry skillet until soft and pliable.
  • Assemble the Tacos
  • Fill each tortilla with jerk chicken, a scoop of pineapple slaw, and a drizzle of lime crema. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Notes

  • You can substitute rotisserie chicken and toss it in jerk seasoning and sauce for a shortcut.
  • For extra heat, add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
  • These work great as sliders too—use Hawaiian rolls instead of tortillas!

Storage & Warming

  • Store components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
    .
  • Reheat chicken in a skillet or microwave.
    .
  • Slaw is best fresh, but can be stored for 1 day.
Easy Jerk Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple and Crema