Mediterranean Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple-Pear Salsa
These vibrant Mediterranean chicken tacos are bursting with flavor and texture, featuring juicy, herb-marinated chicken tucked into soft tortillas and topped with a sweet and tangy grilled pineapple-pear salsa. With a bright lemony yogurt sauce and fresh herbs, these tacos deliver the perfect mix of savory, sweet, and citrusy Mediterranean flair in every bite.
Time Required
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
For the Mediterranean Chicken:
500g boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into strips
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt & pepper to taste
For the Grilled Pineapple-Pear Salsa:
1 cup fresh pineapple slices
1 ripe pear, sliced
1 small red onion, finely chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1 tbsp chopped fresh mint or cilantro
1 small red chili or pinch of chili flakes (optional)
Salt to taste
For Assembly:
6 small flour or corn tortillas (warmed)
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/2 cup Greek yogurt or lemon-garlic yogurt sauce
Fresh arugula or chopped romaine
Extra chopped herbs or chili flakes for garnish
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine chicken with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 1 hour in the fridge).
Grill the Pineapple & Pear:
Brush the pineapple and pear slices lightly with olive oil. Grill on a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly charred. Let cool slightly, then dice.
Make the Salsa:
In a bowl, combine the diced grilled pineapple and pear with chopped red onion, lemon juice, mint/cilantro, and chili (if using). Season with a pinch of salt. Set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
Grill or pan-sear the marinated chicken over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and golden. Let rest for a few minutes, then slice if needed.
Assemble the Tacos:
Warm the tortillas and layer with arugula or romaine, sliced chicken, a spoonful of grilled pineapple-pear salsa, a dollop of Greek yogurt, and crumbled feta. Garnish with extra herbs or chili flakes.
Serve Immediately:
Serve tacos warm with lemon wedges on the side for a final zesty touch!
Tips & Variations
Flavor Boosters
Add za’atar or sumac to the chicken marinade for a deeper Mediterranean profile.
A drizzle of balsamic glaze or pomegranate molasses over the tacos adds a tangy finish.
Protein Swaps
Replace chicken with grilled shrimp, lamb strips, or spiced chickpeas for a different protein base.
Use falafel balls for a vegetarian version—pair wonderfully with the sweet salsa.
Tortilla Choices
Opt for whole wheat, gluten-free, or lettuce wraps depending on your preference or dietary needs.
Toast the tortillas slightly for extra structure and flavor.
Salsa Variations
Mix in diced avocado, cucumber, or cherry tomatoes for added freshness.
Swap the pear with apple, nectarine, or mango based on what’s in season.
Yogurt Sauce Options
Flavor the Greek yogurt with lemon zest, garlic, and dill or tahini for extra richness.
Use tzatziki, hummus, or labneh if Greek yogurt isn’t available.
Spicy Kick
Add pickled jalapeños, harissa, or a dash of hot sauce if you like heat.
Grill a mild chili with the fruit for a subtle smoky heat in the salsa.
Q&A
Q: Can I make the chicken ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can marinate and grill the chicken in advance. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently before assembling.
Q: What if I don’t have a grill?
A: No worries! Use a grill pan or a cast-iron skillet on the stovetop. Broiling the fruit in the oven for a few minutes also works well.
Q: Can I serve this cold?
A: Definitely. These tacos taste great at room temperature and can even be packed as a cold lunch option if using sturdy tortillas.
Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A: Yes! Kids tend to love the sweet grilled fruit and the soft tortillas. Just skip the chili for a milder version.
Q: Can I prep this for a party?
A: Absolutely! Grill the chicken and fruit ahead of time, then set up a taco bar with all the components for guests to build their own.
Nutrition
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420–450 kcal |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Sugars | 9g (natural from fruit) |
| Fat | 18g (mostly healthy fats) |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 520mg |
Nutrition varies depending on tortilla size, toppings, and dairy used.
Conclusion
These Mediterranean Chicken Tacos with Grilled Pineapple-Pear Salsa are a bold, fresh, and creative fusion meal. The savory-spiced chicken pairs beautifully with the sweet, charred salsa, while creamy yogurt and tangy feta tie everything together in a soft tortilla wrap. It’s a dish that balances health, flavor, and texture—and it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, summer meals, or even taco-themed parties.
Whether you’re a fan of Mediterranean cuisine or just looking to upgrade your taco night, this recipe brings something unique and vibrant to the table.