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, then you’re in for a treat with this One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth, spice, and a touch of sweetness from the pineapple. I love making this dish for busy weeknights when I want something quick yet delicious, or for family gatherings where everyone can enjoy the festive flavors together.

What makes this recipe truly special is how simple it is to prepare while still delivering big on flavor. Plus, everything cooks in one pan! That means less time cleaning up and more time enjoying good food and great company. So let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just one pan needed, this recipe simplifies dinner time and minimizes cleanup.
• Family-Friendly Flavors: The sweet and spicy jerk seasoning paired with pineapple is a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time for delicious leftovers that taste even better the next day!
• Versatile Ingredients: Use fresh or canned ingredients based on what you have available; it’s flexible and forgiving.
• Nutritious Comfort Food: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish warms your heart and fills your stomach.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local store. Here’s what you’ll need to create your delicious One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice:

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 One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced zucchini or carrots for added nutrition and color.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute chicken with hearty chickpeas or tofu marinated in jerk seasoning.
• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of Scotch bonnet peppers used in the marinade.

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. This step is crucial because it infuses every bite with those bold Caribbean flavors. If you’re making homemade seasoning, blend all those fresh ingredients until smooth and coat the chicken well. Let it sit while you prepare other components.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large pan over medium-high heat, add olive oil or avocado oil. Sear the marinated chicken thighs until golden brown on both sides—this locks in moisture and flavor! Remove them from the pan once done.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In that same pan, add butter or coconut oil if desired. Sauté garlic and scallion whites until fragrant. This step builds a flavor base that enhances your rice.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

Now add rinsed rice along with coconut milk and broth into the pan. Stir well! Add back in your seared chicken thighs along with bay leaf and thyme sprigs. This will allow your rice to absorb all those wonderful flavors as it cooks.

Step 5: Add Fresh Ingredients

When rice is nearly done—about five minutes remaining—stir in diced pineapple and red bell pepper. This adds brightness and sweetness that perfectly balances out the spicy jerk seasoning.

Step 6: Finish Cooking

Cover your pan tightly and let everything simmer until rice is cooked through and liquid has absorbed completely. Give it a gentle fluff before serving!

Enjoy your One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice Recipe hot from the stove—it’s perfect for sharing around the table!

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

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken to delicious new heights!

• Marinate Ahead: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the jerk seasoning for at least an hour (or overnight) enhances the flavor, making every bite truly irresistible.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and spices when possible; they pack more flavor compared to dried versions, ensuring your dish is vibrant and aromatic.
• Adjust Heat Level: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with fewer Scotch bonnet peppers or habaneros in the marinade. You can always add more later to customize the heat of your dish.
• Don’t Rush the Searing: Giving the chicken time to sear properly creates a beautiful crust and locks in moisture. This step is essential for maximizing flavor and texture.
• Let it Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy pieces of chicken.

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

Serving this vibrant dish can be just as fun as cooking it! Consider these ideas to wow your family or guests during mealtime.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Cilantro: Adds a pop of color and a refreshing contrast that complements the spicy jerk flavors beautifully.
• Sliced Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice right before eating enhances the dish’s brightness and balances out the richness of the coconut milk.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette provides a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the rich flavors of jerk chicken.
• Fried Plantains: Sweet fried plantains offer a delightful contrast in texture and sweetness, making them an excellent accompaniment.
• Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw with a hint of lime can add crunch and creaminess that complements the spiciness of the chicken.
• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add color and nutrition while enhancing the tropical vibe of your meal.

With these serving suggestions and tips, your One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice is sure to impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice is perfect for meal prep! It stays deliciously flavorful after a day in the fridge, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights. Here’s how to store it properly to maintain its taste and texture.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container or divide into meal prep containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool to room temperature.
• Transfer the chicken and rice to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• For best results, consume within one month.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
• Alternatively, microwave individual portions until heated through (about 2-3 minutes).

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I make the One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice in advance?

Yes! This dish is great for meal prep as it can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. Follow the storage instructions above to keep it fresh.

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

You can use boneless skinless turkey thighs or even chickpeas for a plant-based option. Adjust cooking times accordingly!

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

The spiciness depends on your choice of jerk seasoning. You can control the heat by using fewer Scotch bonnet peppers or opting for a milder blend.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?

Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Make sure to adjust accordingly!

What’s a good side dish to serve with One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice?

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables pairs beautifully with this dish, balancing out its rich flavors.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to try this One Pan Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple-Coconut Rice recipe! It’s a delightful mix of flavors that transports you straight to a tropical paradise. Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself, this hearty dish will surely impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!