One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that packs a punch of flavor without the fuss, you’re in for a treat! My One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe is a vibrant combination of spices and tropical goodness that will make your taste buds dance. It’s one of those meals that always impresses, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering. The best part? It all cooks together in one pan, saving you from the dreaded pile of dishes!

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it brings together my love for Caribbean flavors and comforting rice dishes. The juicy chicken thighs absorb the spicy jerk seasoning beautifully, while the coconut rice with sweet pineapple adds a delightful contrast. Trust me; once you try it, it will become a favorite in your kitchen too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just one pan to clean, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: The flavors are bold yet approachable, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the chicken and marinade ahead of time, so all you need to do is throw everything together when you’re ready to eat.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of jerk seasoning and coconut rice creates an irresistible harmony that transports your taste buds straight to the tropics.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet wholesome, giving you everything needed to create this delicious meal. Here’s what you’ll gather:

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:
* Scotch bonnet peppers (or habaneros): 3-4, stemmed and roughly chopped (use fewer for less heat)
* Onion: 1 medium, quartered
* Scallions (green onions): 4-6, roughly chopped
* Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
* Ginger: 1-inch piece, peeled and grated
* Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free): 1/4 cup
* Lime juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed
* Olive oil or avocado oil: 2 tablespoons
* Brown sugar (optional): 1 tablespoon for balance
* Thyme: 1 tablespoon dried (or 2 tablespoons fresh)
* Ground allspice: 1 teaspoon
* Ground nutmeg: 1/2 teaspoon
* Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon
* Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
* Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon

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 can be substituted)
• Red Bell Pepper: 1 medium, deseeded and diced
• Scallions (Green Onions): 3-4, thinly sliced (whites and greens separated)
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Thyme Sprigs: 2-3 (or use 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 offers plenty of flexibility based on your tastes and what you have on hand! Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use boneless chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian twist!
• Change up the veggies: Add in other colorful vegetables like zucchini or carrots for extra nutrition.
• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of jerk seasoning or use sweet bell peppers.
• Try different grains: Substitute quinoa or brown rice if you’re looking for an alternative grain option.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by mixing together your jerk seasoning ingredients in a blender until smooth. This step is crucial because marinating allows those bold flavors to penetrate the chicken thighs deeply. If you’re using store-bought seasoning, simply toss it with the chicken in a bowl.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In your trusty large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs. Searing them creates a lovely golden crust that locks in moisture and flavor. Cook until browned on both sides—about five minutes per side should do it!

Step 3: Cook the Aromatics

After searing the chicken, remove it from the pan but keep those drippings! Add scallion whites along with garlic and ginger into the same skillet. Sautéing these aromatics brings out their wonderful sweetness which forms a great base for our rice.

Step 4: Combine Rice and Liquids

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Stir in rinsed rice along with coconut milk and broth. Scrape any flavorful bits from the bottom of your pan as this will enhance your dish’s overall flavor.

Step 5: Add Chicken Back In

Nestle your seared chicken back into the skillet along with diced pineapple and red bell pepper. Topping it all off with thyme sprigs makes everything smell divine! Cover your skillet and let everything simmer gently until rice is tender—about twenty minutes.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Once cooked through and fragrant—remove from heat! Let this one-pan treasure sit covered for about five minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh scallion greens before diving in! This dish is so good; I guarantee it’ll be gone before you know it!

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

Creating a delicious One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice is all about the little details that elevate your dish! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your meal is bursting with flavor.

• Marinate for maximum flavor: Letting the chicken marinate in the jerk seasoning for at least one hour (or overnight if you can) allows the spices to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more flavorful and aromatic dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices release more oils and flavors compared to dried ones. Whenever possible, opt for fresh thyme, scallions, and ginger to enhance the taste of your dish.

• Don’t skip rinsing the rice: Rinsing helps remove excess starch, which can cause your rice to become gummy. This simple step ensures fluffy, perfectly cooked grains that complement your chicken beautifully.

• Adjust spice levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less jerk seasoning or use milder peppers in your homemade mix. You can always add more spice later but it’s hard to take it away once it’s in!

• Let it rest before serving: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender pieces of chicken.

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

Serving this dish is an opportunity for creativity! The vibrant colors and tropical flavors make it a feast for both the eyes and palate. Here’s how you can present your meal beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro or parsley: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lime wedges: Placing lime wedges on the side allows everyone to squeeze fresh juice over their portion, enhancing the tropical flavors.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and corn tossed in olive oil and grilled until charred make a great addition that complements the jerk chicken well.
• Avocado Salad: A refreshing salad made with diced avocado, tomatoes, cucumber, and lime juice provides a creamy texture that balances out the spiciness of the chicken.
• Black Beans: Seasoned black beans offer protein and fiber while pairing nicely with both the jerk chicken and coconut rice for a complete meal.
• Mango Salsa: A sweet mango salsa brings a delightful contrast to savory dishes. Combine diced mango with red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeño for a refreshing topping.

By following these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create a dinner experience that’s not only satisfying but also truly memorable. Enjoy your culinary adventure in Caribbean flavors!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice recipe is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! Not only does it save cooking time during busy weekdays, but the flavors also deepen and improve when stored. Here’s how to handle leftovers and maintain their deliciousness.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken and rice in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, covering it to retain moisture, or on the stove over low heat until warmed through.
• Add a splash of chicken broth or coconut milk if needed to loosen the rice.

FAQs

Have questions about making this delightful dish? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use a different type of chicken in the One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute boneless chicken thighs with boneless chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may dry out slightly faster. Adjust cooking time as needed.

What can I serve with the One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe?

This dish is quite filling on its own. However, you can pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for added freshness and crunch!

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

The spice level depends on your choice of jerk seasoning. If you prefer less heat, adjust the amount of Scotch bonnet peppers or choose a milder blend.

Final Thoughts

I hope this One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice recipe becomes a new favorite in your home! The vibrant flavors and comforting textures are sure to delight everyone at the table. Enjoy every step of making this dish, and don’t hesitate to share your experience! Happy cooking!