Description
The Jerk Chicken Bowl is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring tender, spicy jerk-seasoned chicken served with a refreshing mix of tropical fruits, rice, black beans, and crisp vegetables. With its zesty marinade and perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy, this bowl is a delicious way to enjoy Caribbean-inspired flavors in a wholesome meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Jerk Chicken:
- 4–6 chicken breasts (about 1 ½ to 2 lbs)
- 2/3 cup hot sauce (such as Valentina Mexican hot sauce)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice (from about 3–4 limes)
- 2 tablespoons ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons thyme
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2–3 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons pepper
- 1 cup scallions, chopped (optional)
- ¼ cup oil (optional)
For the Bowl:
- White rice (cooked)
- Black beans (can be tossed with scallions, cilantro, and lime juice)
- Pineapple (cut into chunks)
- Mango (cut into chunks)
- Red, orange, and yellow peppers (sliced)
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the hot sauce, minced garlic, lime juice, ground allspice, cinnamon, thyme, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and chopped scallions (if using). Mix well.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken and seal the bag or cover the dish. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill pan, outdoor grill, or skillet over medium-high heat. If desired, drizzle a little oil on the grill or pan.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook the chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice it into strips or cubes.
- Prepare the Bowl: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the rice and black beans (tossed with a little lime juice, cilantro, and scallions if desired).
- Arrange a serving of rice in a bowl. Top with sliced jerk chicken, black beans, pineapple, mango, and sliced peppers. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful, tropical Jerk Chicken Bowl!
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of hot sauce or add some chopped fresh chilies to the marinade.
- You can substitute the white rice with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.
- For a vegetarian version, you can use grilled tofu or tempeh instead of chicken.
- This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can make the chicken ahead of time and assemble the bowls as needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes