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Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa Recipe

Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 22 reviews

A vibrant and flavorful Caribbean Jerk Chicken recipe paired with a refreshing homemade pineapple salsa. Perfectly marinated chicken thighs or breasts are grilled to juicy perfection and topped with a sweet and tangy pineapple salsa, creating a delightful balance of spicy, sweet, and zesty flavors. This dish is ideal for a light dinner served with rice or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken

  • 1.5 lb (680 g) chicken thighs or breasts
  • 2–3 tbsp Jamaican jerk seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • Salt, to taste

For the Pineapple Salsa

  • 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
  • ¼ cup red bell pepper, diced
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Pinch of salt

For Serving (Optional)

  • Rice or salad

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken: Rub the chicken thighs or breasts thoroughly with Jamaican jerk seasoning, olive oil, lime juice, and salt. Cover and let it marinate for at least 20–30 minutes; for a deeper, more intense flavor, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
  2. Cook the chicken: Preheat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken on the hot surface and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken develops a slightly charred exterior.
  3. Make the pineapple salsa: In a mixing bowl, combine diced fresh pineapple, red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently until all ingredients are well mixed and the flavors meld together.
  4. Serve: Arrange the cooked jerk chicken on plates and generously top with the fresh pineapple salsa. Serve alongside steamed rice or a crisp salad for a complete and refreshing meal.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor profile but is optional if short on time.
  • For a spicier dish, add extra jerk seasoning or include fresh chopped scotch bonnet peppers to the salsa.
  • This recipe works well with both chicken thighs and breasts; thighs provide more juiciness and flavor.
  • Leftover pineapple salsa can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor, but it can also be cooked on a stovetop if a grill is unavailable.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caribbean Jerk Chicken, Pineapple Salsa, Jamaican seasoning, grilled chicken, tropical salsa, summer recipe, spicy chicken, healthy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://maicook.com/caribbean-jerk-chicken-with-pineapple-salsa-recipe-2/