Jerk chicken pasta is a fusion recipe combining two iconic comfort foods pasta and jerk chicken. The jerk component hails from Jamaica, featuring a bold spice blend made of Scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, thyme, garlic, and more.
I’m ready to stir up a pasta dish that’s bursting with the vibrant, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors of Jamaican jerk. We’re talking about tender, marinated chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a creamy sauce infused with that signature jerk spice, all tangled up with perfectly cooked pasta. Get ready for a taste of the Caribbean!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to build a bold and creamy jerk chicken pasta at home:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless chicken breast or thighs
- 2 tbsp jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Juice of ½ lime
For the Pasta & Sauce:
- 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 1 cup red, yellow, and green bell peppers, julienned
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated parmesan
- Salt, pepper, red chili flakes (optional)
Pro Tip from Marcus Samuelsson: “Sear jerk chicken in a cast iron pan to lock in flavor and get that perfect crust before tossing it into creamy sauce.”
Step-by-Step Jerk Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Season & Cook the Chicken
Rub jerk seasoning, lime juice, and a touch of olive oil all over the chicken. Let marinate at least 30 minutes (overnight if possible). Sear or grill the chicken over medium heat until fully cooked and slightly charred. Let rest, then slice.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter. Add garlic, onions, and peppers. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until soft but still vibrant.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Pour in cream and chicken broth. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in parmesan and a splash of pasta water to emulsify. Adjust salt and pepper.
Pro Tip from Ainsley Harriott: “Add a touch of nutmeg or allspice to your cream sauce — it echoes the jerk spice and deepens the Caribbean flavor.”
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add sliced jerk chicken to the skillet, followed by the cooked pasta. Toss to coat everything in that creamy, spicy goodness. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
What to Serve with Jerk Chicken Pasta
This spicy and creamy pasta deserves the right sides to complete the meal. Here are some quick, tasty ideas:
- Simple Green Salad with lime vinaigrette to cool down the spice
- Garlic Bread or crusty baguette for dipping into the creamy sauce
- Mango Salsa on the side for a tropical, sweet contrast
- Coconut Rice (for extra Caribbean flair)
- Pineapple Mojito or Ginger Beer to sip between bites
Why You’ll Love This Pasta Jerk Chicken Recipe
This dish is a true fusion-spicy, creamy, and loaded with color and texture. It’s easy to adapt for gluten-free or dairy-free diets, and you can make it as mild or fiery as you like. It’s a one-pan meal that brings the spirit of the Caribbean to your kitchen.
Final Thoughts
This Jerk Chicken Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the taste of the Caribbean to your kitchen. The tender, jerk-marinated chicken, colorful vegetables, and creamy, spice-infused sauce create a pasta experience that’s both comforting and exciting. Get ready for a culinary journey to the tropics!
I hope you like the recipe, try it at your home and let us know in the comment section.
FAQS
Q1: What does Jerk Chicken go well with?
Jerk Chicken pairs well with rice and peas, plantains, coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or coconut rice.
Q2: Do chicken and pasta go together?
Yes, chicken and pasta are a classic combination, often served in dishes like Alfredo, pesto, or tomato-based sauces.
Q3: What Flavour is Jerk Chicken?
Jerk Chicken has a bold, spicy, and smoky flavor with hints of allspice, thyme, garlic, and Scotch bonnet peppers.
Q4: Is Jerk Chicken considered healthy?
Yes, when grilled and served with vegetables or whole grains, Jerk Chicken can be a healthy, high-protein meal.
