One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe

If you’re looking for a meal that’s bursting with flavor and simplicity, you’ve come to the right place! The One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe is one of my all-time favorites. It brings together the warmth of Caribbean spices with the sweetness of pineapple and coconut, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, it’s all made in one pan—meaning less cleanup and more time to savor delicious moments.

This recipe isn’t just about great taste; it’s also about the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this dish will surely impress everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Clean-Up: With everything cooked in one pan, you save time on washing dishes while enjoying a fantastic meal.
• Flavorful Fusion: The spicy jerk chicken paired with creamy coconut rice creates a mouthwatering combination that’s hard to resist.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, allowing for a delightful family dinner experience.
• Customizable: You can tweak the spice levels or swap ingredients based on what you have at home.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare part of the dish in advance for an even quicker mealtime solution.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful dish. You’ll find everything you need for both the jerk chicken and the tropical rice here!

For the Chicken and Marinade

• 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 (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

Feel free to play around with this recipe! It’s super flexible and can adapt to your preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use boneless skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs if you prefer leaner meat.
• Add more veggies: Toss in any seasonal vegetables like zucchini or snap peas for added nutrition.
• Change up the rice: Try quinoa instead of rice for a different texture and flavor.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add extra peppers or a dash of hot sauce when cooking.

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

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating your chicken thighs in either store-bought or your homemade jerk seasoning. This step is crucial as it allows those bold flavors to infuse into the meat. Let it sit for at least an hour—overnight is even better if you have time!

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add some olive oil. Once hot, add your marinated chicken thighs and sear them until they’re golden brown on both sides. This step locks in moisture and gives your chicken that beautiful color.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Once your chicken is nicely seared, remove it from the pan temporarily. In the same skillet, add butter or coconut oil along with scallion whites, garlic, ginger, and red bell pepper. Sauté until fragrant—this builds an aromatic base for our rice!

Step 4: Add Rice and Liquids

Now it’s time to add your rinsed rice into the pan along with coconut milk and chicken broth (or water). Stir everything together gently so that every grain gets coated with those wonderful flavors.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Nestle your seared chicken back into the pan along with thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Bring everything to a gentle simmer then reduce heat to low. Cover tightly and cook until rice is tender—this will take about 20 minutes.

Step 6: Fluff & Serve

Once cooked through, remove from heat but keep covered for an additional few minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving. Garnish with fresh pineapple pieces and sliced scallion greens for that vibrant finish!

And there you have it! A warm dish filled with rich flavors that captures the spirit of Caribbean cuisine right in your kitchen! Enjoy every bite!

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

Cooking can be a joyful experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken to a whole new level!

• Choose the right chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs ensures tender, juicy meat that absorbs the jerk flavors beautifully. This cut is more forgiving than chicken breasts, making it perfect for this flavorful dish.

• Marinate for maximum flavor: If you have time, marinate the chicken in the jerk seasoning for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. The longer it sits, the more intense the flavors will become.

• Adjust heat levels: If you prefer milder flavors, start with fewer Scotch bonnet peppers in your homemade jerk seasoning. You can always add more spice later if desired!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh pineapple adds a burst of sweetness and acidity that balances the spiciness of the jerk seasoning. This fresh touch elevates the dish and enhances its tropical flair.

• Don’t rush the cooking process: Allowing the rice to simmer undisturbed helps it absorb all the coconut milk and broth flavors. Stirring too much can lead to mushy rice – we want fluffy grains here!

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

Serving this vibrant dish is all about showcasing its colors and flavors! Here are some ideas to impress your guests or family.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro or parsley: A sprinkle of chopped herbs adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens each bite.
• Lime wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for an extra squeeze of citrus that complements the jerk seasoning beautifully.
• Chopped scallions: Scatter some green parts of scallions on top just before serving for an added crunch and flavor boost.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or corn lightly grilled add a smoky flavor and pair well with the jerk chicken.
• Mango Salsa: A refreshing mango salsa made with diced mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice brings a sweet contrast to the spicy chicken.
• Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad dressed in lime juice and a pinch of salt offers a crisp texture that balances out the meal’s warmth.
• Black Beans: Seasoned black beans provide protein and fiber while complementing the Caribbean theme; they add heartiness without overshadowing your main dish.

Now you’re ready to serve up this delightful One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store and keep your leftovers fresh!

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 best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, on medium power until heated through (about 2-3 minutes).
• Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in the One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs. However, they may cook faster, so adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid drying them out.

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

The spiciness largely depends on the jerk seasoning you choose. If using homemade seasoning, adjust the number of Scotch bonnet peppers to suit your taste preferences.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Certainly! Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas and adjust cooking times as necessary. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

This flavorful dish pairs well with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables if you want something light and refreshing.

How long does it take to prepare the One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe?

With preparation and cooking time combined, you can expect to spend about 45 minutes from start to finish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to try this One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice recipe! It’s packed with vibrant flavors that bring a taste of the tropics right into your kitchen. Whether enjoyed as a cozy family dinner or meal-prepped for busy weekdays, this dish is sure to delight. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to experience all its deliciousness!