Some purists say pineapple on Al Pastor is non-negotiable. Others argue it’s a sweet distraction. I say: ignore the haters. That grilled pineapple slice, all hot and juicy, is the secret weapon. It cuts through the smoky spice like a tiny tropical ninja. Plus, it makes your tacos look Instagram-worthy, which is 50% of the experience.
Fun fact: The enzymes in pineapple (bromelain) can actually break down proteins so aggressively that if you marinate too long, your chicken turns into chicken-flavored pudding. True story. So keep it to 2-4 hours, or you’ll be eating taco soup.
Chipotle Mexican Grill Chicken Al Pastor Copycat Recipe
How to eat it like a pro
You must eat Chicken Al Pastor in a taco. Double up on corn tortillas (because they’ll try to tear from joy). Add diced onions, fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and a dangerous drizzle of salsa verde. If you skip the salsa, you’re basically refusing free flavor. Don’t do that.
But wait—there’s more! You can also stuff it into quesadillas, on top of tostadas, or even in a burrito the size of a small dog. Some maniacs put it on pizza. I won’t judge, but the pineapple-on-pizza crowd already has enough to defend.