Chicken Al Pastor Kebab

If you’re craving bold, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors, this Chicken Al Pastor Kebab is your ultimate answer. Juicy, marinated chicken slices are perfectly cooked with caramelized pineapple, giving a delicious balance of savory and sweet. Paired with Mexican street rice, beans, tortillas, and fresh toppings, it’s a fiesta in every bite that’s perfect for family dinners or weekend gatherings.

Behind the Recipe

Inspired by the classic Mexican street tacos al pastor, this recipe brings the essence of the bustling streets of Mexico right into your kitchen. Traditionally cooked on a vertical rotisserie, we’ve recreated that rich, smoky flavor by marinating the chicken and grilling it, then layering with pineapple for that authentic touch. It’s vibrant, fun, and full of personality.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Tacos al pastor originated from Lebanese immigrants in Mexico who introduced spit-roasted meat. Over time, the dish evolved using pork marinated in achiote and pineapple, and served with tortillas, onions, and cilantro. Our chicken adaptation keeps the sweet and smoky notes while making it accessible for a home-cooked feast.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Al Pastor Kebab

These kebabs are irresistible for so many reasons:

Versatile: Serve on tortillas, over rice bowls, or with salad.

Budget-Friendly: Chicken and canned or jarred toppings make it affordable.

Quick and Easy: Marinate, cook, and assemble within an hour.

Customizable: Add extra pineapple, peppers, or cheese to taste.

Crowd-Pleasing: Sweet, smoky, and tender—everyone loves it.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Marinate chicken a few hours ahead for deep flavor.

Great for Leftovers: Reheat chicken for tacos, bowls, or salads the next day.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

1. Marinate thoroughly: At least 30 minutes, ideally overnight, for maximum flavor.
2. High heat sear: Use a grill or skillet for a nice char without drying out the chicken.
3. Caramelize pineapple: Brush with avocado oil and sear for added sweetness.
4. Rest before slicing: Keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
5. Assemble last: Keep sides fresh and vibrant by adding just before serving.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Mixing Bowl: To marinate chicken.

Grill or Skillet: For cooking the chicken and pineapple.

Cutting Board: For chopping pineapple, avocado, and toppings.

Knife: Sharp for slicing chicken and pineapple.

Tongs: To turn chicken while cooking and for serving.

Serving Platter: For an eye-catching presentation.

Ingredients in Chicken Al Pastor Kebab

1. Chicken Breast: 2 lbs. Tender protein base that soaks up the marinade.
2. SOMOS Al Pastor Taco Simmer Sauce: ½ jar. Brings bold, smoky flavor with subtle sweetness.
3. Salt: 1 tsp. Enhances all flavors.
4. Pineapple: 1 whole, sliced. Adds caramelized sweetness and balances the savory chicken.
5. Avocado Oil: 2 tablespoons. Used for searing chicken and pineapple.

To Serve:

6. SOMOS Mexican Street White Rice: 1 cup. Adds a comforting, fluffy base.
7. SOMOS Mexican Street Corn Pinto & Black Beans: 1 cup. Adds creamy, savory richness.
8. Tortillas: As needed. For assembling tacos or wraps.
9. Cheese: As desired. Melty or crumbled for texture.
10. Lettuce: Fresh and crisp.
11. Avocado: Sliced for creamy richness.
12. Cilantro: Chopped, for bright herb flavor.
13. SOMOS Mexican Chili Crisp: Optional, for heat and crunch.

Ingredient Substitutions

Chicken Breast: Thighs for extra juiciness.

Pineapple: Canned rings in juice work too.

Al Pastor Sauce: Use a homemade adobo or marinade with achiote and chili powder.

Rice & Beans: Substitute with quinoa or black beans only.

Tortillas: Use corn, flour, or lettuce wraps.

Ingredient Spotlight

Al Pastor Simmer Sauce: Infuses chicken with smoky, sweet, and spicy layers that define this dish.

Pineapple: Its acidity and caramelization cut through richness, giving a balanced bite every time.

Instructions for Making Chicken Al Pastor Kebab

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Brush with avocado oil.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a mixing bowl, coat chicken with SOMOS Al Pastor Taco Simmer Sauce and salt. Let marinate at least 30 minutes.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Ensure skillet or grill is hot and lightly oiled.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Simultaneously sear pineapple slices until caramelized.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Remove chicken, let rest, then slice thinly. Stack on a serving platter with pineapple interspersed.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Arrange sides like rice, beans, lettuce, avocado, tortillas, and cheese around the platter. Drizzle with chili crisp if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Let everyone build their own tacos or enjoy a rice bowl topped with the sweet and smoky kebab slices.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The chicken is juicy and smoky, contrasted by caramelized pineapple. Rice and beans add creaminess, while fresh avocado and cilantro add crunch and brightness. Layers of sweet, spicy, and savory keep every bite dynamic.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Slice pineapple thin for even caramelization.
• Rest chicken before slicing for juiciness.
• Use tongs to evenly sear each side.
• Add a pinch of extra chili crisp for heat lovers.

What to Avoid

• Don’t overcook chicken—it dries quickly.
• Avoid adding pineapple too early; it caramelizes best near the end.
• Don’t assemble sides too early; keep fresh and crisp.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 480

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Marinate chicken up to 24 hours ahead. Store cooked slices and sides separately. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat chicken gently in a skillet or oven to retain juiciness.

How to Serve Chicken Al Pastor Kebab

Serve as tacos, rice bowls, or with warm tortillas and fresh toppings. Pair with lime wedges or extra chili crisp for added zest.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Kebab Wraps: Roll chicken, pineapple, and toppings in tortillas for lunch.
• Quesadillas: Add leftover chicken and cheese to a tortilla and toast.
• Salad Topper: Slice chicken over greens with beans and avocado.

Additional Tips

• Slice chicken thinly for easy layering.
• Use fresh cilantro and avocado for color contrast.
• For smoky depth, add a touch of smoked paprika to the marinade.

Make It a Showstopper

• Serve on a large wooden board with pineapple slices interspersed.
• Arrange sides in bowls around the platter.
• Sprinkle fresh herbs on top before serving.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Version: Add extra chili crisp to the sauce.
• Vegetable Mix: Include sautéed peppers and onions.
• Street Style Bowls: Layer chicken over rice and beans for a bowl.
• Grilled Chicken Option: Cook on outdoor grill for authentic flavor.
• Cheese Lovers: Add crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese on top.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

A1: Yes, thighs stay juicier and are excellent for this recipe.

Q2: Can I prep the marinade ahead?

A2: Absolutely—marinate for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.

Q3: Can I use canned pineapple?

A3: Yes, drain well and pat dry before searing.

Q4: Are these tacos gluten-free?

A4: Use corn tortillas to make the dish gluten-free.

Q5: Can I make this spicy?

A5: Add extra SOMOS Mexican Chili Crisp or chili powder to the marinade.

Q6: Can I serve it as a rice bowl?

A6: Yes, layer chicken, pineapple, rice, beans, and toppings.

Q7: How long should I cook chicken on the skillet?

A7: About 5–7 minutes per side depending on thickness.

Q8: Can I bake the chicken instead of skillet?

A8: Yes, bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Q9: Can this be meal-prepped?

A9: Yes, keep chicken and toppings separate for fresh assembly.

Q10: How do I store leftovers?

A10: Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

Chicken Al Pastor Kebab is bold, sweet, smoky, and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for tacos, rice bowls, or a full Mexican feast, it brings restaurant-level flavor right to your home. Each bite is juicy, flavorful, and unforgettable.

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