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One Pot Caribbean Jerk Chicken & Rice

One Pot Caribbean Jerk Chicken & Rice

A flavorful and easy one pot recipe combining tender, spicy Caribbean jerk chicken with fluffy seasoned rice and colorful vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal that captures the vibrant tastes of the islands with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 46 Chicken Thighs or Breasts (thighs recommended for juiciness)

Spices and Seasonings

  • 23 tablespoons Jerk Seasoning (adjust to taste)
  • 1 Scotch Bonnet Pepper (optional, for authentic heat)

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 medium Onion, chopped
  • 34 Garlic cloves, minced
  • 12 Bell Peppers, chopped (any color)
  • 12 fresh thyme sprigs (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • Tomatoes or 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste

Grains and Liquids

  • 1 ½ cups Long Grain Rice
  • 2 ½ cups Chicken Broth

Oils

  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil or Vegetable Oil

Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces thoroughly with jerk seasoning, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear them until golden brown on all sides to lock in juices and deepen flavor. Remove chicken from the pot.
  3. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: In the same pot, add chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté until soft and fragrant to build a flavorful base for the dish.
  4. Add Rice and Liquids: Stir in the long grain rice, coating it with the oil and vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth and add tomatoes or tomato paste. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
  5. Return Chicken to the Pot and Simmer: Nestle the seared chicken pieces on top of the rice mixture. Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer gently until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through, about 20-25 minutes.
  6. Finish with Fresh Herbs and Serve: Once cooked, sprinkle fresh thyme or other herbs on top. Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving to mix the flavors beautifully.

Notes

  • Use bone-in chicken thighs for richer flavor and juiciness.
  • Always sear the chicken first to develop caramelized flavor.
  • Adjust jerk seasoning and Scotch bonnet pepper to control spiciness.
  • Use fresh herbs like thyme to brighten the dish’s aroma.
  • Let the dish rest off heat for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caribbean, jerk chicken, one pot meal, chicken and rice, spicy, easy dinner, island flavors