Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean with these Jerk Chicken Bowls featuring spicy marinated chicken, tropical mango salsa, and creamy coconut rice. This easy and colorful meal brings a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and creaminess for a satisfying weeknight dinner or meal prep option.
Ingredients
Scale
For the jerk chicken:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into strips
- 2 tbsp jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lime juice
For the coconut rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 cup coconut milk (unsweetened)
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the mango salsa:
- 1 large ripe mango, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Salt to taste
Optional toppings:
- Lime wedges
- Extra cilantro
- Sliced avocado
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, toss chicken strips with jerk seasoning, olive oil, and lime juice until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, or for best flavor, overnight.
- Cook the coconut rice: In a saucepan, combine the rice, coconut milk, water, and salt. Bring mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
- Prepare the mango salsa: In a separate bowl, mix diced mango, red onion, red bell pepper, cilantro, lime juice, and salt to taste. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Cook the chicken: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken strips and cook for 4-6 minutes per side until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through. Remove from heat and let the chicken rest before slicing if needed.
- Assemble the bowls: Divide the fluffy coconut rice into four bowls. Top each bowl with sliced jerk chicken, a generous scoop of mango salsa, and optional toppings such as lime wedges, extra cilantro, and sliced avocado. Serve immediately and enjoy a flavorful Caribbean-inspired meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor significantly.
- Use either chicken thighs for juicier meat or breasts for leaner protein.
- Adjust the jerk seasoning amount based on your spice preference.
- For a gluten-free meal, ensure your jerk seasoning and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Leftover components store well and make great meal prep for up to 3 days.
