Are you ready to ignite your taste buds and transport yourself to the islands? Look no further! Jerk chicken, a staple of Jamaican cuisine, has become a global phenomenon, with its bold flavors and aromas winning hearts everywhere. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering spicy jerk chicken recipes that will take you on a culinary journey from classic comfort food to innovative twists.
From traditional jerk chicken dishes like grilled skewers and slow cooker stews, to fusion creations like jerk chicken tacos and pizza, these recipes showcase the versatility of jerk seasoning. Whether you’re a spice lover or just looking for a flavor boost, we’ve got you covered with a range of heat levels and cooking methods to suit every taste.
So go ahead, get ready to sweat, and let’s dive into the world of spicy jerk chicken!
Classic Jamaican Jerk Chicken
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this iconic jerk chicken recipe. With a blend of aromatic spices and a hint of sweetness, this dish is sure to transport your taste buds to the Caribbean.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning (see note)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and rub the jerk mixture all over the meat, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Jerk Chicken Skewers
Add a Caribbean twist to your backyard barbecue with these flavorful grilled jerk chicken skewers. Perfect for a summer gathering or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together jerk seasoning and olive oil. Add chicken, lime juice, onion, and red bell pepper. Toss to combine.
3. Thread chicken mixture onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Jerk Chicken Tacos with Pineapple Salsa
Elevate your taco game with the bold flavors of Jamaica and the sweetness of Hawaii. This recipe combines spicy jerk chicken, crunchy slaw, and tangy pineapple salsa for a unique and delicious twist on traditional tacos.
Ingredients:
For the Jerk Chicken:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
For the Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
For the Tacos:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded lettuce
– Diced tomatoes
– Crumbled queso fresco (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil. Brush mixture on both sides of chicken breasts.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine pineapple salsa ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine.
5. Assemble tacos by slicing grilled chicken, adding slaw and pineapple salsa, and topping with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Jerk Chicken
Slow Cooker Jerk Chicken Recipe
Summary:
Elevate your mealtime with this aromatic and flavorful slow cooker jerk chicken recipe, perfect for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine the chicken, jerk seasoning, garlic, and olive oil. Mix well.
2. Add the sliced onion on top of the chicken mixture.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and pineapple juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time:
Low setting: 6-8 hours
High setting: 3-4 hours
Jerk Chicken Wings with Mango Dip
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this mouth-watering Caribbean-inspired treat!
Ingredients:
For the Jerk Chicken Wings:
– 2 lbs chicken wings
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup lime juice
For the Mango Dip:
– 3 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1/4 tsp salt
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, soy sauce, and lime juice.
3. Add chicken wings to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove wings from marinade, pat dry with paper towels.
5. Bake wings in preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
6. For the Mango Dip, combine diced mango, Greek yogurt, honey, and salt in a bowl. Stir well to mix.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes (wings) + 10 minutes (dip prep)
Enjoy your delicious Jerk Chicken Wings with Mango Dip!
Jerk Chicken Pizza with Plantain Crust
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica on this unique pizza, featuring jerk chicken, plantain crust, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe plantains
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the plantains and slice into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the plantain slices in a single layer.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the plantains, sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Meanwhile, season chicken breast with jerk seasoning and cook according to package instructions.
7. Assemble the pizza by spreading mozzarella cheese on a baking sheet, topping with cooked chicken, and sprinkling with cilantro.
8. Place the plantain crust on top of the pizza and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jerk Chicken Salad with Avocado Dressing
This Caribbean-inspired salad combines the bold flavors of jerk chicken with creamy avocado dressing and crunchy mixed greens. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with jerk seasoning and cook according to package instructions (or grill for 5-6 minutes per side).
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced avocado, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add to the salad.
5. Top with cherry tomatoes and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jerk Chicken and Rice Bowl
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Jamaican jerk seasoning with tender chicken and flavorful rice, all in one delicious bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together chicken, jerk seasoning, and olive oil.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
5. Heat remaining 1/2 cup of water in a separate pan over medium heat. Add sliced bell peppers and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
6. Serve chicken on top of rice, with sautéed bell peppers on the side.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Jerk Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Add a Caribbean twist to your stir-fry with this flavorful recipe that combines the bold flavors of jerk seasoning with tender chicken and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp jerk seasoning
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite stir-fry sauce
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add jerk seasoning and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, carrot, and broccoli. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Return chicken to the pan and stir-fry with vegetables until combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jerk Chicken Sliders with Coleslaw
Elevate your slider game with the bold flavors of jerk seasoning and a refreshing coleslaw. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 slices of American cheese (optional)
– Coleslaw ingredients:
+ 1 cup shredded cabbage
+ 1/2 cup shredded carrots
+ 2 tbsp mayonnaise
+ 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and chicken breasts. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
4. Assemble sliders by placing grilled chicken on each bun, followed by cheese (if using).
5. Prepare coleslaw by mixing all ingredients together and refrigerating for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve sliders with a dollop of coleslaw on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Jerk Chicken Pasta with Coconut Cream Sauce
Experience the Caribbean flavors of jerk seasoning paired with rich coconut cream sauce and tender pasta. This unique fusion will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 cup pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups coconut cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken with jerk seasoning for 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add coconut cream, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer and let thicken slightly.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the sauce and stir to combine.
6. Combine pasta with the jerk chicken mixture and toss to coat.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jerk Chicken Kebabs with Bell Peppers
Add a Caribbean twist to your grilling routine with these flavorful jerk chicken kebabs, paired with sweet and crunchy bell peppers. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together jerk seasoning and olive oil. Add chicken and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Thread chicken, onion, bell peppers, and garlic onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Jerk Chicken Nachos with Cheese Sauce
Elevate your nacho game with the bold flavors of jerk seasoning and creamy cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 8-10 tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add jerk seasoning, onion, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet. Top with cooked chicken mixture, shredded cheese, and half-and-half or heavy cream.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Jerk Chicken Soup with Dumplings
This Caribbean-inspired soup combines the bold flavors of jerk seasoning with tender chicken and fluffy dumplings, perfect for a warm and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp jerk seasoning
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Dumpling mixture (see below)
Dumpling Mixture:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add chicken, jerk seasoning, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook until chicken is browned.
3. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
4. In a separate bowl, mix dumpling ingredients until a dough forms. Drop by spoonfuls into the pot and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until dumplings are fluffy.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Jerk Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this twist on traditional stuffed peppers. Sweet bell peppers are filled with spicy jerk chicken, creamy rice, and melted cheese for a mouthwatering main dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken, onion, and jerk seasoning; cook until chicken is browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Stuff each pepper with cooked chicken mixture, followed by rice and cheese.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Jerk Chicken Flatbread with Tzatziki
Elevate your snack game with this unique flatbread recipe, combining the bold flavors of jerk chicken and tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce (see below for recipe)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix jerk seasoning and olive oil. Brush both sides of the chicken breast with the mixture.
3. Grill or bake the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm the tortilla in the oven for 2-3 minutes.
5. Assemble the flatbread by spreading tzatziki sauce on the tortilla, topping with shredded chicken, feta cheese, and cilantro or scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jerk Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaican jerk seasoning and creamy coconut milk in this aromatic curry dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for sautéing
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the jerk seasoning, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the coconut milk and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the curry sauce. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jerk Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo
Elevate your burger game with this flavorful twist on a classic, featuring the bold flavors of Jamaican jerk seasoning and spicy mayo.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce
– Tomato
– Red onion
– Spicy mayo (see below)
Spicy Mayo:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1-2 tbsp sriracha sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil. Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with the mixture.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast the hamburger buns on the grill.
5. Assemble the burgers by spreading spicy mayo on the bottom bun, followed by a chicken breast, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and finishing with the top bun.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Jerk Chicken Quiche with Sweet Potato Crust
Elevate your brunch game with this Caribbean-inspired quiche, featuring jerk chicken and a sweet potato crust that’s both crispy and indulgent.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the filling:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix grated sweet potatoes, flour, salt, and pepper. Add olive oil and stir until combined.
3. Press the mixture into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. In a skillet, cook chicken, jerk seasoning, onion, and garlic until chicken is cooked through.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and eggs. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Pour the filling mixture over the sweet potato crust.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the quiche is set.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Jerk Chicken Empanadas with Mango Chutney
Elevate your empanada game with the bold flavors of jerk chicken and sweet mango chutney. Perfect for a Caribbean-inspired snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon jerk seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix chicken with olive oil, jerk seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Roll out empanada dough to desired thickness.
4. Place a spoonful of chicken mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a small border.
5. Fold the other half over the filling and press edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for glaze.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Meanwhile, combine mango, honey, and lime juice in a bowl for chutney.
9. Serve empanadas warm with mango chutney on the side. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these irresistibly flavorful jerk chicken recipes! From classic Jamaican-style dishes to creative twists like jerk chicken tacos and pizza, this collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of grilled skewers, slow-cooked comfort food, or bold fusion flavors, these 20 mouth-watering recipes are sure to tantalize your taste buds. With ingredients ranging from mango and coconut to avocado and sweet potatoes, you’ll find the perfect jerk chicken dish to satisfy your cravings.
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