Name: One-Pot Caribbean Jerk Chicken & Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: Protein: 6 chicken thighs or drumsticks; Seasoning: 2 tbsp jerk seasoning (homemade or store-bought); Cooking fat: 2 tbsp olive oil; Aromatics & Vegetables: 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 sprigs thyme; 2 green onions, sliced; Grains & Liquids: 1 ½ cups long-grain rice; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup coconut milk; Spices & Heat: 1 Scotch bonnet or habanero pepper (optional for extra heat); Salt and pepper, to taste; Citrus: Juice of 1 lime

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Short Description

One-Pot Caribbean Jerk Chicken & Rice is a flavorful, hearty dish that brings the vibrant tastes of the Caribbean to your kitchen with minimal effort. Spiced with traditional jerk seasoning, this dish delivers a perfect balance of heat, smokiness, and savory goodness. Cooked in one pot, the chicken remains juicy while the rice soaks up all the rich spices, creating a satisfying and convenient meal ideal for any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with flavor – The signature jerk seasoning infuses the chicken and rice with a delightful mix of heat, sweetness, and smokiness.
Easy one-pot meal – Minimal cleanup and simple preparation make this dish a winner for busy weeknights.
Customizable – Adjust the spice level, swap out proteins, or add vegetables to suit your taste.
Perfect for meal prep – Stores well for leftovers, making it a great option for make-ahead meals.
Authentic Caribbean taste – Brings the island flavors right to your home kitchen.

Ingredients

Chicken thighs or drumsticks
Jerk seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
Olive oil
Onion
Garlic
Bell peppers
Thyme
Green onions
Chicken broth
Coconut milk
Long-grain rice
Scotch bonnet or habanero pepper (optional for extra heat)
Lime juice
Salt and pepper

Directions

Season the Chicken: Rub the chicken pieces generously with jerk seasoning, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
Add Rice and Liquids: Stir in the rice, ensuring it absorbs the flavors. Pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk, stirring well.
Return the Chicken: Nestle the seared chicken back into the pot, along with thyme, green onions, and the optional Scotch bonnet pepper.
Simmer and Cook: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Finish with Lime Juice: Remove from heat and squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish for a burst of brightness.
Serve: Garnish with extra green onions and enjoy hot.

Variations

Protein Swap: Use shrimp, tofu, or another type of meat if preferred.
Vegetable Additions: Add carrots, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Different Rice Options: Substitute with brown rice (adjusting cooking time) or quinoa for a different texture.
Less Heat: Reduce or omit the Scotch bonnet pepper for a milder dish.
Extra Smokiness: Add a touch of smoked paprika to enhance the depth of flavor.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

How spicy is jerk seasoning?

Jerk seasoning can range from mild to very spicy depending on the blend. You can control the heat by adjusting the amount of Scotch bonnet pepper or choosing a milder store-bought seasoning.

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs or breasts work well, though bone-in pieces add extra flavor.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish is great on its own but pairs well with fried plantains, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the chicken first, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until done.

Is coconut milk necessary?

Coconut milk adds creaminess and depth, but you can substitute it with extra broth if needed.

Can I use instant rice?

Instant rice is not recommended as it may become too mushy. Stick to long-grain rice for the best texture.

What if my rice isn’t cooking evenly?

Make sure the lid is secure and avoid stirring too often. If necessary, add a bit more broth and continue simmering.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Use tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken and vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.

How do I get crispy skin on the chicken?

For crispy skin, broil the chicken for a few minutes after cooking.

What’s the best way to marinate the chicken?

Marinate overnight in a zip-top bag or airtight container for maximum flavor.

Conclusion

One-Pot Caribbean Jerk Chicken & Rice is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that delivers bold flavors in every bite. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, this meal brings the essence of the Caribbean to your table with minimal effort. Give it a try and enjoy the rich, spicy, and comforting flavors of this classic dish!

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