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Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa Recipe

Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa Recipe

5 from 26 reviews

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean with this easy and delicious Caribbean Jerk Chicken topped with fresh pineapple salsa. The spicy, smoky jerk seasoning perfectly complements the sweet and tangy salsa, making it an ideal dish for grilling or skillet cooking. Perfect for a tropical-inspired meal that’s full of bold flavors and simple to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Jerk Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 23 tbsp Jamaican jerk seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt & pepper to taste

For the Pineapple Salsa

  • 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1 small jalapeño, minced (optional for heat)
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts or thighs evenly with Jamaican jerk seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
  2. Prepare the Pineapple Salsa: In a medium bowl, combine diced fresh pineapple, finely diced red onion, minced jalapeño (if using), chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken on the heat and cook for 6 to 8 minutes per side until the chicken is fully cooked through and has developed a slightly charred, smoky crust.
  4. Serve: Plate the cooked jerk chicken and generously spoon the pineapple salsa over the top. Pair with rice, a fresh salad, or other tropical sides for a complete meal. Enjoy the bold, sweet, and spicy Caribbean flavors!

Notes

  • For extra heat, leave the jalapeño seeds in the salsa or add more jalapeños.
  • If you prefer, substitute chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat.
  • Jerk seasoning can be store-bought or homemade depending on your preference.
  • Marinate longer for more intense flavor, but not more than 8 hours to avoid meat texture breakdown.
  • Use fresh pineapple for the best salsa taste; canned pineapple may introduce extra sweetness and moisture.
  • This recipe can be adapted for grilling outdoors or a stovetop skillet.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caribbean Jerk Chicken, pineapple salsa, jerk seasoning, grilled chicken, tropical recipe, spicy chicken, summer meal