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Cast Iron Skillet Pastor Tacos
MexicanEasy

Cast Iron Skillet Pastor Tacos

High-heat seared chicken strips with caramelized pineapple and onions.

Prep Time

15 min

Cook Time

10 min

Servings

3

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, sliced into thin strips
  • 1.5 cups fresh pineapple, diced into small chunks
  • 1 medium white onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons achiote paste
  • 0.25 cup pineapple juice
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 12 pieces small corn tortillas
  • 0.5 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 whole lime wedges

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large bowl, whisk together the achiote paste, pineapple juice, vinegar, oregano, and garlic powder until smooth.

  2. 2

    Add the chicken strips to the marinade, tossing to coat thoroughly, and let sit for at least 20 minutes.

  3. 3

    Heat a large cast iron skillet over high heat until it begins to smoke slightly, then add one tablespoon of oil.

  4. 4

    Add the diced pineapple and sliced onions to the skillet, searing for 3-4 minutes until they develop dark caramelized edges, then remove and set aside.

  5. 5

    Add the remaining oil to the hot skillet and spread the chicken strips in a single layer, letting them sear undisturbed for 3 minutes to get a deep char.

  6. 6

    Flip the chicken and cook for another 3 minutes until fully cooked through and crispy on the edges.

  7. 7

    Return the pineapple and onions to the skillet, tossing everything together for 1 minute to combine the flavors.

  8. 8

    Warm the corn tortillas on a separate griddle and serve the chicken mixture topped with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.

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