Al pastor is all about bold marinade, high heat, and that perfect balance of savory and sweet. This chicken version delivers everything you love—deep chili flavor, tender meat, and juicy pineapple—ready in a fraction of the time. It’s perfect for tacos, bowls, or straight off the pan.
Al Pastor Chicken with Pineapple 🌮
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
3 dried guajillo chiles (seeds removed)
2 cloves garlic
¼ cup pineapple juice
2 tbsp white vinegar
2 tbsp achiote paste
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp oregano
½ tsp cumin
Salt & pepper to taste
For Cooking:
1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
½ white onion, sliced
2 tbsp oil
For Serving:
Small tortillas
Chopped cilantro
Diced onion
Lime wedges
Instructions
Soften the Chiles:
Place dried guajillo chiles in hot water for 5–10 minutes until softened.
Make the Marinade:
Blend softened chiles, garlic, pineapple juice, vinegar, achiote paste, paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Marinate the Chicken:
Coat chicken thoroughly and let marinate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best flavor).
Cook the Chicken:
Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until charred and fully cooked. Remove and let rest before slicing.
Caramelize the Pineapple:
In the same pan, add pineapple and onion. Cook until lightly charred and caramelized.
Slice & Combine:
Thinly slice chicken and toss back into the pan with pineapple and onions for extra flavor.
Assemble:
Serve on warm tortillas topped with cilantro, onion, and a squeeze of lime.
Why This Recipe Works
The guajillo-based marinade brings depth and mild heat, while pineapple juice tenderizes the chicken and adds natural sweetness. Cooking at high heat creates those signature crispy, caramelized edges that define great al pastor.
Pro Tips for Authentic Flavor
Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful results
Don’t skip the achiote—it gives that classic color and earthy taste
Let the chicken char slightly for true street-style texture
Cook pineapple in the same pan to absorb all the flavor
Smoky, sweet, and packed with bold flavor—this al pastor chicken brings street-style tacos straight to your kitchen.
Explore our professional-grade cast iron pan to achieve perfectly charred chicken and caramelized pineapple every time.
