One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that brings the taste of the Caribbean right into your kitchen, then you’ve found it! This One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe is a true treasure in our family. It’s vibrant, flavorful, and so easy to prepare—all in one pan! Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds (or thirds!).

What I love most about this recipe is how the spicy jerk chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy coconut rice and sweet pineapple. The combination is not only delicious but also comforting. Trust me; once you try this dish, it might just become a new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The spicy jerk chicken balanced by sweet pineapple makes it appealing to all ages.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time for even more flavor.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Fresh ingredients mean you’re serving up something nutritious and satisfying.
• Versatile Dish: This recipe allows for easy substitutions based on what you have at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe is half the fun! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully.

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
* Dried thyme (or fresh): 1 tablespoon dried thyme (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 Pineapple-Coconut 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 pineapple 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
• 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 One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe is incredibly flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use boneless skinless chicken breasts or even tofu for a plant-based option.
• Change up the veggies: Add your favorite vegetables like zucchini or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of jerk seasoning or use sweet bell peppers instead of hot peppers.
• Try different grains: Substitute long grain rice with quinoa or brown rice for a heartier option.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by marinating your chicken in jerk seasoning. This step infuses your meat with fantastic flavors! Combine the jerk seasoning ingredients—whether store-bought or homemade—mix well to ensure every piece of chicken is coated. Let it marinate while you prep the rest.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large pan over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once it’s hot, add your marinated chicken thighs. Searing creates that beautiful caramelized crust that adds depth to your dish. Cook until golden brown on both sides; this should take about five minutes per side. Once done, remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Cook Your Aromatics

In the same pan where you cooked your chicken, add more olive oil if needed and toss in garlic and scallion whites. Sauté them gently until fragrant—about two minutes. This step builds amazing flavor foundations for your rice.

Step 4: Add Rice and Liquids

Next up! Add rinsed rice into the pan along with coconut milk and broth. This combo gives your rice its creamy texture and delicious coconut flavor. Stir well to combine everything before bringing it to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Nestle in Chicken

Now it’s time to put everything back together! Place your seared chicken on top of the rice mixture. Add diced pineapple and red bell pepper around it all. Cover your pan and let it simmer until the rice is tender and has absorbed all those wonderful flavors—about twenty minutes.

Step 6: Finish Up

Once everything is cooked through and fragrant, give it a gentle fluff with a fork before serving. Garnish with scallion greens and fresh thyme sprigs for an extra pop of color!

And there you have it—a delightful One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe that’s sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every bite!

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

Cooking is all about having fun and experimenting, so here are some helpful tips to make your dish even more delicious!

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less jerk seasoning and gradually add more as you cook. This way, you can control the spiciness to suit your taste.
• Marinate Ahead of Time: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken in the jerk seasoning for at least 1 hour or overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat fully, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh thyme and pineapple. Fresh herbs enhance the dish’s aroma and flavor, while fresh pineapple adds a juicy sweetness that complements the jerk chicken beautifully.
• Keep an Eye on Cooking Liquid: Depending on how thick your coconut milk is and how much moisture is released from the chicken and vegetables, you may need to adjust the amount of chicken broth or water. Aim for a creamy consistency without making it too soupy.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps retain juices and ensures each bite is tender and succulent.

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

Serving this vibrant dish can turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary feast! Here are some delightful ideas for presentation.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Cilantro: Adding a sprinkle of cilantro not only enhances the visual appeal but also offers a fresh flavor that brightens up the whole plate.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime just before eating adds a zesty brightness that balances the richness of the coconut rice and chicken.
• Sliced Red Chili: For those who enjoy an extra kick, thinly sliced red chili can be scattered over the top as a colorful garnish.

Side Dishes

• Green Salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the jerk chicken.
• Plantain Chips: Crispy plantain chips add a delightful crunch and tropical flair that pairs perfectly with Caribbean cuisine.
• Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Lightly steamed green veggies offer a nutritious balance to your meal while keeping things colorful on your plate.
• Mango Salsa: A sweet and spicy mango salsa made from diced mangoes, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro will bring an extra layer of tropical flavor that complements your main dish beautifully.

Enjoy every bite of your One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice—it’s sure to transport you straight to a sun-kissed beach!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time, making your weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store your delicious leftovers and keep the flavors intact.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Ensure that the chicken and rice are mixed together to maintain moisture.

Freezing

• Portion out the cooled chicken and rice in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, try to remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed, until heated through.
• You can also microwave in a covered bowl, stirring occasionally for even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this dish!

Can I make One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice without chicken thighs?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

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

The spice level depends on the jerk seasoning used. If you’re sensitive to heat, you can reduce the amount of Scotch bonnet peppers or choose a milder blend of jerk seasoning.

Can I use canned pineapple in this recipe?

Yes! While fresh pineapple adds a great flavor and texture, you can definitely use canned pineapple chunks. Just be sure to drain them well before adding them to your dish.

What type of rice works best for this recipe?

For the best results, long grain white rice such as Jasmine or Basmati is recommended. It cooks perfectly and absorbs all those wonderful flavors!

How do I customize this One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice recipe?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as peas or carrots, or swap out the herbs according to your taste preferences. This recipe is versatile!

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 transport you straight to the Caribbean. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy weeknight or serving it at a gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking and savor every bite!