One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with flavor and brings a taste of the tropics to your kitchen, then this One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe is just what you need! This recipe has become a favorite in my home, not only for its vibrant and spicy notes but also for its simplicity. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

What I love most is how everything cooks together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. The juicy chicken pairs beautifully with the sweet and creamy coconut rice, creating a delicious balance that everyone will enjoy. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it’ll find a regular spot on your dinner rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• One Pan Wonder: Less time spent cleaning means more time relaxing after dinner.
• Family-Friendly: The flavors are appealing to both kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family dinners.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time for even more flavor!
• Tropical Flavor Explosion: The combination of jerk seasoning and pineapple offers a delightful escape to the Caribbean.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken

• Chicken: 1.5 lbs (about 680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed of excess fat
• Jerk Seasoning (Store-bought or Homemade): 1/4 cup (approx. 60ml). If using a very spicy blend, adjust to taste.

If making homemade, blend:
* 3-4 Scotch bonnet peppers (or habaneros), stemmed and roughly chopped (use fewer for less heat)
* 1 medium onion, quartered
* 4-6 scallions (green onions), roughly chopped
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* 1-inch piece of ginger, peeled and grated
* 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
* 2 tablespoons lime juice, freshly squeezed
* 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
* 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for balance)
* 1 tablespoon dried thyme (or 2 tablespoons fresh)
* 1 teaspoon ground allspice
* 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
* 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Rice

• Olive Oil or Avocado Oil: 1 tablespoon (for searing)
• Long Grain White Rice: 1.5 cups (e.g., Jasmine or Basmati), rinsed thoroughly
• Full-Fat Coconut Milk: 1 can (13.5 oz / 400ml)
• Chicken Broth or Water: 1 cup (240ml) – adjust if coconut milk is very thick
• Fresh Pineapple: 1 cup, diced into 1/2-inch pieces (canned, drained pineapple chunks can be substituted, but fresh is best)
• Red Bell Pepper: 1 medium, deseeded and diced
• Scallions (Green Onions): 3-4, thinly sliced (whites and greens separated)
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Fresh Thyme Sprigs: 2-3 (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• Bay Leaf: 1
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste
• Butter or Coconut Oil (optional): 1 tablespoon for sautéing aromatics

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the Protein: Try using chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
• Add More Veggies: Toss in some snap peas or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice it Up: If you love heat, consider adding more Scotch bonnet peppers or serving with hot sauce.
• Go Grain-Free: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice if you’re looking for a low-carb option.

How to Make One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by preparing your jerk marinade. If you’re using homemade seasoning, blend all those vibrant ingredients until smooth. Marinating the chicken allows those bold flavors to infuse deeply into the meat. Let it sit while you prepare the rest of your ingredients—this step is key for maximum flavor!

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In your large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs to sear them until they’re browned on both sides. This step locks in juices and gives your chicken that beautiful color we all love.

Step 3: Cook the Aromatics

After removing the chicken from the pan temporarily, toss in some butter or coconut oil along with the scallion whites and garlic. Sauté them until fragrant; this builds an aromatic base that enhances every bite of rice.

Step 4: Add Rice and Liquid

Next up is adding rinsed rice along with coconut milk and broth or water into your skillet. Stir well to combine everything! The liquid will create a creamy texture as it cooks down.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Place the seared chicken back into the skillet along with diced pineapple and bell pepper. Sprinkle in thyme sprigs and bay leaf while seasoning with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer before covering.

Step 6: Simmer Away

Let your dish cook on low heat until rice is tender and most of the liquid has absorbed—about 20-25 minutes. Patience during this step will yield fluffy rice infused with all those delicious flavors!

Step 7: Serve Up Your Dish

Once cooked through, remove from heat and let it sit covered for about five minutes before serving. This resting period allows all those lovely flavors to meld beautifully together!

And there you have it—a vibrant One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe that’s not only easy but packed full of tropical goodness! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe

Cooking this vibrant dish is a breeze when you keep these helpful tips in mind!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs, spices, and produce enhance the flavors significantly. Freshness ensures your jerk chicken bursts with authentic Caribbean taste.

• Marinate the chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes—or even overnight—lets the flavors penetrate deeply. This step will create a more flavorful and succulent dish.

• Control the heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less jerk seasoning and gradually increase until it suits your palate. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish without overwhelming heat.

• Let it rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite juicy and tender.

• Experiment with veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini or carrots to the rice. They not only boost nutrition but also add color and texture to your meal.

How to Serve One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe

When it comes to serving this delightful dish, presentation is key! Here are some ideas that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro or parsley: A sprinkle of chopped herbs adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the spices beautifully.
• Lime wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side allows everyone to squeeze fresh juice over their portions, enhancing flavor and brightness.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who love extra heat, offering sliced jalapeños makes it easy to customize each plate.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Plantains: Sweet fried plantains provide a wonderful contrast in flavor and texture. Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the spicy jerk chicken.
• Mango Salsa: A refreshing mango salsa made from diced mangos, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro adds a fruity element that brightens every bite.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: The smokiness of grilled corn enhances the tropical vibe of this meal while providing a satisfying crunch.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette offers a crisp complement that balances out the richness of the coconut rice.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice will not only taste amazing but also look like a chef’s masterpiece! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe is a fantastic choice for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious flavors throughout the week without the hassle of daily cooking.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the chicken and rice into freezer-safe containers.
• Label each container with the date for easy tracking.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that may help you on your culinary journey!

Can I prepare the One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in jerk seasoning the night before and store it in the fridge. This allows the flavors to develop even more!

What can I substitute if I can’t find jerk seasoning for the One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe?

If you don’t have jerk seasoning, try using a mix of spices like cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. You can also create your own blend using spices from your pantry.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use tamari instead of soy sauce when preparing your jerk seasoning and ensure all other ingredients are labeled gluten-free.

Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to add or substitute with other veggies such as zucchini or corn based on what you have on hand or prefer.

How spicy is this One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe?

The spiciness largely depends on how many Scotch bonnet peppers you use. Adjust according to your heat preference by starting with fewer peppers and tasting as you go!

Final Thoughts

This One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe is truly special, bringing vibrant flavors and a touch of tropical sunshine to your table. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Whether it’s for a family dinner or meal prep for the week, it’s sure to impress. Happy cooking, and may every bite transport you straight to a sunny Caribbean getaway!