What does jerk chicken go well with?

Jerk chicken pairs well with a variety of sides that balance its bold, smoky heat. Traditional options include rice and peas, fried plantains, and steamed cabbage. For something lighter, fresh salads or avocado slices help cool the spice. If you're serving jerk chicken pasta, a slice of garlic bread or a fresh cucumber salad works great to round out the meal.

What is Rasta pasta sauce made of?

Rasta pasta sauce is typically a creamy blend made with heavy cream or coconut milk and infused with jerk seasoning. The seasoning usually includes spices like allspice, garlic, thyme, and hot peppers. This combination creates a rich, slightly spicy sauce that complements the pasta and vegetables in jerk chicken pasta beautifully.

Why do they call it Rasta pasta?

The name “Rasta pasta” comes from the colors of the dish—usually featuring red, yellow, and green bell peppers, which reflect the colors associated with Rastafarian culture. Although it’s not a traditional Rastafarian meal (especially since many Rastas follow a vegan diet), the nickname stuck. Today, many people refer to jerk chicken pasta as Rasta pasta when it includes those bright peppers and jerk flavors.

Is jerk chicken considered healthy?

Yes, jerk chicken can be part of a healthy meal, especially when it's grilled or baked. The seasoning itself is made from herbs and spices, which add flavor without added fat or sugar. For jerk chicken pasta, the overall health factor depends on your ingredients. You can lighten the dish by using chicken breast, a lighter cream or coconut milk, and whole grain pasta. It’s easy to customize the dish to fit different dietary needs.

Healthy Jerk Chicken Pasta: Caribbean-Inspired and Delicious

Name: Jerk Chicken Pasta: The Creamy, Spicy Comfort Food You Didn’t Know You Needed
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Caribbean-American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken thighs or breasts; 2 tbsp jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 1 small onion, sliced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk; 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional); 8 oz penne or rigatoni pasta, cooked and drained; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish

Description

This jerk chicken pasta blends spicy Caribbean flavors with creamy pasta comfort in a one-skillet dinner perfect for weeknights or guests.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb boneless chicken thighs or breasts

2 tbsp jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)

2 tbsp olive oil

1 red bell pepper, sliced

1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

1 green bell pepper, sliced

1 small onion, sliced

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk

1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)

8 oz penne or rigatoni pasta, cooked and drained

Salt and black pepper to taste

Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish

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Instructions

1. Season chicken with jerk seasoning and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; reserve 1/4 cup pasta water.

3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, sauté bell peppers and onion for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.

5. Pour in cream or coconut milk and add an extra teaspoon of jerk seasoning. Simmer until sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.

6. Stir in parmesan (if using), then return chicken and cooked pasta to the pan. Toss everything to coat, adding pasta water as needed.

7. Simmer for 2 more minutes, adjust seasoning, and garnish with herbs.

8. Serve hot with lime wedges or your favorite sides.

Notes

Use thighs for juicier meat; breast for a leaner option.

For dairy-free, use coconut milk and skip parmesan.

Adjust spice level by adding or reducing jerk seasoning.

Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Caribbean-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 620
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 820mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 36g
Cholesterol: 115mg