Yaki Tacos from Islands Fine Burgers & Drinks feature tender grilled chicken marinated in a savory teriyaki sauce, topped with fresh shredded cabbage, juicy pineapple chunks, and a drizzle of creamy spicy mayo, all nestled in soft, warm corn tortillas for a flavorful fusion of sweet and tangy tastes with a satisfying crunch.
Equipments
- Grill (or Grill Pan)
- Mixing Bowls
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Tongs
- Spoon
- Small Saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Serving Plates
- Serving Spoon
- Squeeze Bottle (for mayo drizzle, optional)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon green onions (sliced, optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
When preparing the chicken for Yaki Tacos, marinate it in teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness. Fresh pineapple chunks are preferred for a juicy, sweet contrast, but canned drained pineapple can be a convenient substitute without compromising taste. Use soft corn tortillas that are warmed before assembling to prevent tearing and ensure a pleasant texture. Balanced seasoning with salt, black pepper, and the addition of sriracha-spiked mayo will give your tacos the signature creamy spiciness. Your homemade Yaki Tacos from Islands Fine Burgers & Drinks copycat menu will capture the perfect harmony of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors noted in the original dish.
Instructions
- Marinate chicken breasts in 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat; brush with vegetable oil.
- Grill marinated chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.
- Remove chicken from grill; let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sriracha, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar to make spicy mayo. Transfer to a squeeze bottle if desired.
- Warm corn tortillas on the grill or in a dry skillet, about 30 seconds per side.
- Place sliced grilled chicken onto each tortilla.
- Top with shredded green cabbage and pineapple chunks.
- Drizzle spicy mayo over fillings.
- Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds (if using).
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately on plates.
Substitution
Yaki Tacos from Islands Fine Burgers & Drinks can be recreated at home with flexible ingredient options to suit your pantry. If fresh pineapple is unavailable, canned pineapple chunks drained well can maintain the dish's signature sweet tang. When a grill or grill pan isn't accessible, broiling or sauteing the marinated chicken in a skillet delivers similar caramelization and flavor depth. For the spicy mayo drizzle, you can adjust sriracha to taste or substitute with another chili sauce you prefer. Your choice of tortillas can also vary, with flour tortillas providing a softer texture if corn tortillas are not on hand.
Tips
Ensure the chicken is marinated for at least 30 minutes to allow the teriyaki flavors to deeply penetrate the meat, enhancing its tenderness and taste. When grilling, preheat the grill or pan to medium-high and oil it well to prevent the chicken from sticking and to achieve appealing grill marks. Allow the chicken to rest after grilling before slicing to retain its juices and avoid dryness. Warm the corn tortillas briefly to make them pliable and easier to fold without cracking, improving your taco assembly and eating experience.
Nutritions
Yaki Tacos provide a balanced combination of protein, fiber, and healthy fats with tender grilled chicken breasts delivering around 30 grams of lean protein per serving, essential for muscle repair and satiety. The shredded green cabbage adds dietary fiber and vitamins C and K, supporting digestion and immune health, while pineapple chunks contribute natural sweetness along with vitamin C and manganese for antioxidant benefits. Corn tortillas offer a gluten-free source of carbohydrates to fuel your body, and the spicy mayo made with mayonnaise, sriracha, and sesame oil adds a moderate amount of healthy fats and flavor without excessive calories. Your meal delivers a flavorful fusion that balances macronutrients with vitamins and minerals to support overall nutrition.
Storage
Store leftover grilled chicken and prepared spicy mayo separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent cross-contamination. Wrap unused corn tortillas tightly in foil or plastic wrap and keep them in the fridge to avoid drying out. Your cabbage and pineapple toppings should be refrigerated in sealed containers and consumed within 1-2 days for optimal taste and texture.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the chicken breasts with thinly sliced flank steak or tofu for alternative protein options. Instead of corn tortillas, try using flour tortillas or lettuce leaves for a different texture or a low-carb twist. For a smoky flavor, grill the pineapple chunks alongside the chicken before adding them to the tacos. To enhance the mayonnaise, incorporate minced garlic or a splash of lime juice to customize the spicy mayo to your taste.
Allergies
Your Yaki Tacos contain common allergens such as soy, found in teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil, which can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Mayonnaise may include egg, and sesame seeds present a risk for those with sesame allergies. People with food allergies should carefully review all ingredients and consult with the restaurant to ensure safe consumption.
Why this recipe?
Yaki Tacos from Islands Fine Burgers & Drinks feature a unique blend of tender grilled meats, fresh vegetables, and savory Hawaiian-inspired sauces that deliver a burst of flavor in every bite. The balance of smoky, sweet, and spicy elements creates a memorable taste experience that stands out among traditional taco options. Making a copycat version allows you to recreate the bold, island-style flavors at home with customized ingredients. Your efforts result in an authentic dish that brings the vibrant spirit of Islands Fine Burgers & Drinks to your own kitchen.