One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean right to your kitchen, you’ll love this One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe. This recipe is close to my heart because it combines tender chicken marinated in zesty jerk seasoning with the sweetness of pineapple and creamy coconut rice. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen, or for family gatherings where everyone will gather around for seconds (and thirds!).

This dish is not only packed with flavor but also incredibly easy to make. With just one pan, you can create a meal that feels like a special occasion. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One Pan Wonder: Effortlessly prepare everything in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet and spicy flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time! The leftovers are just as tasty (if not better) the next day.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of jerk seasoning, coconut milk, and fresh pineapple creates a tropical taste that transports you to paradise.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the heat level of the jerk seasoning to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of what makes this recipe so special. You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store! 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! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option. You could even use tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some snap peas or corn for an extra crunch and color.
• Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add more Scotch bonnets or jalapeños to kick up the heat!
• Switch up the grains: Use quinoa or brown rice instead of white rice for an alternative grain option.

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

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating your chicken in jerk seasoning. Whether you choose store-bought or whip up your own homemade blend, let the chicken soak up those bold flavors for at least an hour—overnight is even better! This step ensures that every bite is packed with deliciousness.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large pan over medium heat, add olive oil or avocado oil. Once hot, sear the marinated chicken thighs until browned on both sides—about 5 minutes per side. This step not only locks in moisture but also adds incredible depth to your dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Aromatics

Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, sauté onions and garlic until they become fragrant and translucent—this will sweeten them up beautifully! Stir in red bell pepper and cook until tender.

Step 4: Add Rice and Liquids

Stir in rinsed rice along with coconut milk and chicken broth or water. Toss in diced pineapple along with thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Nestle seared chicken back into the pan with rice mixture. Cover with a lid and let it cook on low heat until rice is tender—about 20 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully!

Step 6: Final Touches

Once cooked through, remove from heat and let it sit covered for about five minutes before serving. Fluff up that rice with a fork while removing bay leaf—then garnish with fresh scallions before diving in!

And there you have it—a delightful One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe that’s sure to impress anyone at your table! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

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

Cooking can be such a joyful journey, especially when you’re creating something as vibrant and flavorful as this dish! Here are some tips to ensure your meal turns out amazing.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs, spices, and produce can elevate the flavors significantly. Opt for fresh thyme and ginger when possible, as they provide a more robust flavor profile.

• Adjust the heat level: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount of jerk seasoning or peppers. You can always add more later, but it’s tough to tone down the heat once it’s in!

• Let it marinate: For even deeper flavors, consider marinating the chicken in the jerk seasoning for a few hours or overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat beautifully.

• Cook rice properly: Rinse your rice thoroughly before cooking. This removes excess starch and helps achieve fluffy grains rather than clumpy ones.

• Don’t skip the aromatics: Sautéing onions, garlic, and peppers before adding them to the pan releases their essential oils and enhances their flavors, making your dish even more delectable.

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

Presenting your dish beautifully can make all the difference at mealtime! This vibrant one-pan meal is perfect for impressing family or guests. Serve it right from the pan for a casual gathering or plate it elegantly for a special occasion.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro or parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs adds a pop of color and freshness that cuts through the richness of the dish.
• Lime wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their portions for an extra zesty kick.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus tossed with olive oil and grilled until tender enhance the meal’s tropical vibe.

• Avocado Salad: A refreshing salad made with diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of jerk chicken beautifully.

• Plantain Chips: Crispy fried plantain chips are not only delicious but also add texture and sweetness that pairs well with spicy jerk chicken.

• Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw with cabbage and carrots dressed in a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm spices in this dish.

With these serving suggestions, you’re all set to create a delightful dining experience that showcases your One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice recipe is perfect for meal prep! It’s easy to make in advance, and the flavors only get better as it sits.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Portion the chicken and rice into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best texture, avoid freezing if possible but it’s still safe!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
• Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish until heated through, stirring midway.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use different types of chicken for the One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe?

Yes! While boneless, skinless thighs are recommended for their juiciness, you can also use chicken breasts. Just be aware that they may cook faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

What can I substitute for coconut milk in the One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe?

If you prefer not to use coconut milk, you can substitute it with a mixture of unsweetened almond milk and a bit of extra oil or creaminess from cashews blended into a smooth consistency.

How spicy is the jerk seasoning in this recipe?

The spiciness can vary significantly based on the type of jerk seasoning used. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with a smaller amount and adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I add vegetables to the One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies like zucchini, carrots, or snap peas during cooking. Just ensure they have similar cooking times so they become tender without losing their crunch.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! If you use tamari instead of soy sauce, this dish will be gluten-free. Always check labels on any packaged ingredients for potential gluten content.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with vibrant flavors that bring a taste of the tropics into your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or meal prepping for busy weeks ahead, it’s sure to become a favorite. Dive into this delightful dish and savor every bite—happy cooking!