Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 20 mouth-watering spicy jerk chicken recipes! Jerk seasoning, a blend of spices and herbs that originated in Jamaica, adds a depth of flavor to this popular dish. Whether you’re looking for classic jerk chicken recipes or creative twists, we’ve got you covered.
From tender grilled skewers to hearty slow-cooked stews, these recipes showcase the versatility of jerk seasoning. And don’t worry if you’re not feeling adventurous – we’ve included some timeless favorites that are sure to please even the most skeptical palates.
In this article, we’ll take a culinary journey through the flavors and spices of Jamaica, exploring different ways to use jerk seasoning in your cooking. From traditional dishes like jerk chicken tacos and jerk chicken pizza to unique creations like jerk chicken empanadas and jerk chicken pot pie, you’ll find inspiration for every meal.
So grab your apron and get ready to spice up your life with these 20 delicious spicy jerk chicken recipes!
Classic Jamaican Jerk Chicken with Scotch Bonnet Peppers
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this aromatic and spicy chicken dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the pungent heat of scotch bonnet peppers with the warm spices of jerk seasoning to create an unforgettable taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 Scotch bonnet peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, scotch bonnet peppers, and garlic.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush with olive oil. Sprinkle the jerk mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Jerk Chicken Skewers with Pineapple Salsa
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these flavorful and easy-to-make grilled jerk chicken skewers, served with a sweet and tangy pineapple salsa. Perfect for summer barbecues or casual dinners!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lime juice
– 8 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
– Pineapple Salsa (see below)
Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 ripe pineapple, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together jerk seasoning, olive oil, and lime juice. Add chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine pineapple salsa ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine.
6. Serve grilled jerk chicken skewers with warm pineapple salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow-Cooked Jerk Chicken with Allspice and Thyme
Transform tender chicken into a flavorful Jamaican-inspired dish with this easy, slow-cooked recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground allspice
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to Low.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together jerk seasoning, olive oil, allspice, and thyme. Add chicken and toss until coated.
3. Add onion and bell pepper to the bowl and mix well.
4. Transfer mixture to the slow cooker and cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Jerk Chicken Tacos with Mango Slaw
Get ready to spice up your taco Tuesday with this flavorful and refreshing recipe! Jerk chicken, crunchy mango slaw, and crispy tacos come together for a Caribbean-inspired twist on traditional tacos.
Ingredients:
For the jerk chicken:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the mango slaw:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the mango slaw by combining all ingredients in a medium-sized bowl. Stir to combine.
5. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by slicing cooked chicken and placing it onto a warmed tortilla, followed by a spoonful of mango slaw.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Oven-Baked Jerk Chicken with Garlic and Ginger
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful oven-baked jerk recipe, infused with the warmth of garlic and ginger.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle the jerk mixture evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jerk Chicken Wings with Spicy Honey Glaze
Elevate your wing game with this sweet and spicy fusion of Caribbean and American flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together jerk seasoning and olive oil.
3. Add chicken wings and toss until evenly coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange wings in a single layer.
5. Bake for 30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the wings are baking, combine honey, Dijon mustard, and hot sauce in a small bowl.
7. After 20 minutes of baking, brush the spicy honey glaze all over the wings.
8. Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Jerk Chicken Pizza with Caramelized Onions
A flavorful twist on classic pizza, this recipe combines the bold flavors of jerk seasoning with the sweetness of caramelized onions and the spiciness of pepper jack cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 1 lb boneless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz pepper jack cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. In a bowl, mix jerk seasoning with chicken pieces; set aside.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, caramelize onions by cooking them in the same skillet over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Assemble pizza by spreading caramelized onions on dough, followed by cooked chicken, and topped with pepper jack cheese.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Jerk Chicken Salad with Avocado and Lime Dressing
This Caribbean-inspired salad combines the bold flavors of jerk chicken, creamy avocado, and tangy lime dressing for a refreshing twist on traditional greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Lime juice dressing (see below)
Lime Dressing:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Brush mixture on chicken breast.
3. Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare salad by combining mixed greens, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro in a large bowl.
5. Slice cooked chicken into strips and add to the salad.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
7. Drizzle dressing over the salad and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jerk Chicken Stir-Fry with Bell Peppers and Onions
Add a Caribbean twist to your stir-fry game with this flavorful Jerk Chicken Stir-Fry! This recipe combines the bold flavors of jerk seasoning, crunchy bell peppers, and savory onions for a deliciously easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together jerk seasoning and chicken pieces. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp oil. Add bell peppers and onions; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Return chicken to the pan and stir in garlic. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jerk Chicken Burgers with Jerk Mayo
Elevate your burger game with the bold flavors of Jamaica! This recipe combines tender jerk chicken patties with a creamy jerk mayo, all nestled between a toasted bun.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, jerk seasoning, breadcrumbs, and egg. Form into 4 patties.
3. Grill chicken patties for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and cilantro in a bowl. Set aside.
5. Assemble burgers by spreading jerk mayo on the bottom bun, followed by a chicken patty, lettuce, tomato, cheese (if using), and top bun.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Jerk Chicken and Rice with Coconut Milk
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this mouth-watering recipe, combining spicy jerk chicken with creamy coconut milk-infused rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup jerk seasoning (contains ingredients like allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers)
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken and jerk seasoning until well-coated.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a separate pot, combine rice and coconut milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
5. Serve the jerk chicken atop the creamy coconut rice, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Jerk Chicken Soup with Sweet Potatoes and Kale
Warm up on a chilly day with this aromatic and flavorful soup that combines the bold spices of jerk seasoning with sweet potatoes, kale, and tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
3. Add the chicken, jerk seasoning, and cumin. Cook for 5 minutes or until browned.
4. Add the sweet potatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Jerk Chicken Kebabs with Mango Chutney
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean with this mouthwatering combination of jerk chicken kebabs and sweet mango chutney.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat; let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving space between each piece.
5. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Grill kebabs for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
7. Meanwhile, combine diced mango and chopped cilantro (if using) in a small bowl; serve as chutney alongside grilled kebabs.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jerk Chicken Nachos with Black Beans and Cheese
Jerk Chicken Nachos with Black Beans and Cheese – A flavorful twist on traditional nachos that combines the bold flavors of jerk seasoning, tender chicken, creamy cheese, and nutritious black beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp jerk seasoning
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 8-10 nacho chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and jerk seasoning; cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Set aside.
3. Arrange nacho chips in a single layer on a baking sheet. Top with cooked chicken, black beans, and shredded cheese.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Sprinkle with cilantro, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Jerk Chicken Pasta with Creamy Jerk Sauce
This Caribbean-inspired pasta dish combines the bold flavors of jerk seasoning with the comfort of creamy sauce and tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp. jerk seasoning
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp. olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in jerk seasoning and cook for an additional minute.
5. In a large saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Add cooked chicken mixture to the creamy sauce and stir until coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Toss cooked pasta with the creamy jerk chicken sauce. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jerk Chicken Flatbread with Arugula and Feta
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica on a crispy flatbread, topped with peppery arugula, creamy feta, and spicy jerk chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 flatbread (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 oz arugula
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken breast and jerk seasoning.
3. Place the mixture on the flatbread, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken.
5. Roll up the flatbread and slice into 1-inch thick pieces.
6. Spread arugula and crumbled feta cheese on top of the chicken.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the flatbread is crispy.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Jerk Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
This recipe combines the warmth of Jamaican jerk seasoning with the comfort of a classic chicken pot pie, all wrapped up in a flaky crust. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic until cooked through.
3. Add jerk seasoning, frozen vegetables, flour, chicken broth, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Fill pie crust with chicken mixture and dot with butter.
6. Roll out remaining pie crust and use to cover pie. Crimp edges to seal.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Jerk Chicken Stuffed Peppers with Quinoa
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the bold flavors of jerk chicken with the nutty goodness of quinoa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon jerk seasoning
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in jerk seasoning; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with cooked quinoa, chopped cilantro, and jerk chicken mixture.
5. Place peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Jerk Chicken Empanadas with Spicy Dipping Sauce
Elevate your snack game with these flavorful empanadas, filled with jerk-seasoned chicken and wrapped in a flaky pastry crust. Serve with a side of spicy dipping sauce for an added kick.
Ingredients:
– 1 package empanada wrappers (about 12-15 wrappers)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Dipping Sauce:
+ 1 cup mayonnaise
+ 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
+ 1 tbsp lime juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, jerk seasoning, cilantro, and cheese (if using).
3. Lay an empanada wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a triangle or a square shape, and press the edges together to seal.
5. Fry the empanadas for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
7. Serve with Spicy Dipping Sauce (mix all ingredients together in a bowl).
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes (includes frying time)
Jerk Chicken Fried Rice with Scallions and Peas
Elevate your meal game with this flavorful fusion of Caribbean and Asian cuisine. This recipe combines tender jerk chicken, savory fried rice, and crunchy scallions and peas for a mouthwatering experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked jerk chicken, diced
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (scallions and peas)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in cooked jerk chicken, mixed vegetables, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked rice to the mixture and stir-fry until combined and heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 20 spicy jerk chicken recipes! From classic Jamaican jerk chicken to innovative twists like jerk chicken tacos and pizza, this collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine or impress your friends with a unique dish, these recipes are sure to satisfy. With a variety of cooking methods and flavor combinations, you’ll be exploring the Caribbean cuisine in no time.