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Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa

Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa
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Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa is a vibrant and flavorful dish combining the smoky, spicy essence of authentic Jamaican jerk seasoning with a refreshing, sweet and tangy pineapple salsa. This recipe is easy to prepare using simple, fresh ingredients and can be grilled, baked, or pan-seared. Perfect for family meals or entertaining guests, it delivers a perfect balance of bold island flavors and bright freshness.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs
  • 2 tbsp jerk seasoning blend
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Pineapple Salsa

  • 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, diced
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Jerk Marinade: Combine the jerk seasoning, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix until you create a smooth marinade that will cling to the chicken, imparting the signature spicy aroma and flavor.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the boneless chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish, then pour in the jerk marinade. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors deeply permeate the meat.
  3. Make the Pineapple Salsa: Dice the fresh pineapple, red bell pepper, and red onion into small, uniform pieces. In a bowl, toss them together with chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Chill the salsa to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Grill, bake, or pan-sear the marinated chicken over medium-high heat. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken has a nicely charred exterior.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Plate the juicy Caribbean Jerk Chicken topped generously with pineapple salsa or serve it alongside. The combination adds freshness and a zingy burst of flavor with every bite.

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper, more intense jerk flavor.
  • Use fresh pineapple and herbs for brighter, more vibrant salsa.
  • Don’t skip the char on the chicken; it adds authentic smoky complexity.
  • Adjust the heat by varying or substituting the type of peppers used in the jerk seasoning.
  • Allow cooked chicken to rest a few minutes before slicing to retain juices and tenderness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caribbean, jerk chicken, pineapple salsa, spicy, sweet, gluten free, grilled chicken, tropical recipe

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/caribbean-jerk-chicken-with-pineapple-salsa/