Irresistible Jerk Chicken Pasta Recipe – A Fusion of Flavors

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this sensational Jerk Chicken Pasta recipe. Combining the bold and vibrant flavors of Jamaican jerk seasoning with the comfort of pasta, this dish is a delightful fusion of cultures. The tender and juicy jerk chicken, paired with al dente pasta, creates a harmonious balance that will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re a fan of Caribbean cuisine or simply looking to spice up your pasta game, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and ignite your culinary adventure.

• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Serving: 4
• Yield: 4 servings
• Calories: 550 per serving

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (225g) penne pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tablespoons jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment:

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Tongs or spatula
• Whisk

Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

1. In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with the jerk seasoning, ensuring they are well coated.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3

1. In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for a few minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened and fragrant.
2. Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Whisk the sauce until smooth and simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4

1. Add the cooked penne pasta and the cooked jerk chicken to the skillet. Toss gently to coat the pasta and chicken with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.

Step 5

1. Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the jerk chicken pasta in bowls or on plates, garnished with sliced green onions and freshly chopped cilantro. Get ready to savor the burst of flavors!

Tips and Tricks:

• Adjust the amount of jerk seasoning according to your spice tolerance. Increase or decrease the quantity to suit your preference.
• For an extra kick, you can add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to amp up the nutritional value and add more color to the dish.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt for a creamy yet healthier alternative.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 550
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Protein: 33g
• Fiber: 4g

Final Thoughts:

Jerk Chicken Pasta is a delightful fusion of Caribbean flavors and classic pasta comfort. This recipe brings together the smoky, spicy, and savory notes of jerk seasoning with the creamy goodness of pasta, creating a unique and unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a satisfying meal, this dish will transport you to the sunny shores of the Caribbean, all from the comfort of your own kitchen.

FAQ:

1. Can I use bone-in chicken pieces instead of boneless chicken breasts?
   • Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces, but the cooking time will be longer. Ensure that the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   • Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli, farfalle, or spaghetti. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the pasta shape you choose.
3. Can I make the jerk seasoning athome?
   • Yes, you can make your own jerk seasoning by combining ingredients like allspice, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, paprika, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. There are various homemade jerk seasoning recipes available online that you can customize to your taste preferences.
4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
   • Certainly! You can substitute the chicken with tofu or a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant to create a delicious vegetarian version of jerk pasta. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
5. How can I make the dish spicier?
   • If you prefer a spicier kick, you can increase the amount of jerk seasoning or add additional spices like cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to intensify the heat.
6. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
   • Yes, you can make this recipe dairy-free by substituting the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream. Ensure the alternative has a creamy consistency.
7. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
   • While it’s best to enjoy the dish fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat the sauce gently before adding it to the cooked pasta and chicken.
8. How can I store leftovers?
   • If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the creaminess.