Name: Tasty Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa & Coconut Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (Tender and juicy); 2 tablespoons olive oil (For moisture and flavor); 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning (Key spice blend); 1 teaspoon garlic powder (Add savory depth); 1 teaspoon onion powder (Enhances flavor); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (For smoky undertone); 1 teaspoon ground allspice (Sweet and slightly peppery); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (Adds warmth); 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper (For extra heat); 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg (Enhances flavor); to taste salt and black pepper (Essential seasoning); 1 can coconut milk (Creamy texture); 1 cup jasmine rice (Fragrant base); 1 cup water (For cooking rice); 1 tablespoon coconut oil (Adds richness); 1 large mango (Sweet and juicy); 1 medium red bell pepper (Adds crunch); 0.25 medium red onion (For sharpness); 0.25 cup fresh cilantro (Herbaceous notes); 2 tablespoons lime juice (Brightens flavors); 1 tablespoon honey (Balances acidity)

Every now and then, I crave a dish that transports me straight to sun-soaked beaches and spirited marketplaces. Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice do just that! This recipe is a delightful Caribbean-inspired creation, featuring spicy, smoky chicken nestled atop creamy coconut rice, perfectly brightened by a zesty mango salsa. Not only is it a feast for the senses, but it’s also designed to fit seamlessly into your weeknight dinner routine—it’s quick to prep and equally satisfying for a family gathering. So, whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting to explore your culinary skills, get ready to savor the vibrant flavors and comforting textures of this dish. What’s your favorite way to embrace tropical flavors in your cooking?

Why You’ll Crave This Recipe!

Vibrant Flavors: The smoky jerk chicken pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy mango salsa, creating a taste explosion with every bite.

Quick Prep: In less than 30 minutes, you can have a delicious dinner ready, making it perfect for busy weeknights!

Coconut Creaminess: The fluffy coconut rice adds a rich and creamy base, ensuring a satisfying experience that balances the spicy chicken.

Tropical Twist: Each bowl evokes memories of sunny beach days and friendly gatherings, making it not just a meal, but an experience!

Versatile Options: Customize your bowls effortlessly! Consider swapping chicken for shrimp or tofu, or adding crispy fried plantains as a side for extra crunch.

For more exciting chicken recipes, try my Crockpot Chicken Dumplings or how about Dollys Chicken Stuffing for a comforting twist? Enjoy exploring those flavors!

Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The main protein, tender and juicy, building a flavorful base for the dish.
• Olive oil – Provides moisture and a rich flavor for the chicken.
• Jerk seasoning – The signature spice blend that gives this dish its bold Caribbean flavor.
• Garlic powder – Adds savory depth to complement the jerk seasoning.
• Onion powder – Offers subtle sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
• Smoked paprika – Infuses a smoky undertone that pairs beautifully with the spice.
• Ground allspice – Sweet and slightly peppery, amplifying the jerk profile.
• Ground cinnamon – Contributes warmth, balancing the spices perfectly.
• Cayenne pepper – For those seeking extra heat and a touch of excitement.
• Ground nutmeg – Adds depth and warmth, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Salt and black pepper – Essential for elevating the taste of the chicken.

For the Coconut Rice
• Coconut milk – Gives rice a creamy texture and subtle sweetness.
• Jasmine rice – A fragrant base for soaking up the delightful flavors.
• Water – Needed for cooking the rice, making it fluffy and tender.
• Coconut oil – Adds a touch of richness and tropical flavor to the rice.

For the Mango Salsa
• Large mango – Sweet and juicy, providing a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken.
• Red bell pepper – Crunchy texture and mild sweetness, enhancing the salsa.
• Red onion – Offers sharpness and vibrant color to the mix.
• Fresh cilantro – Delivers refreshing herbaceous notes to brighten the salsa.
• Lime juice – Brightens all the flavors in the salsa, making it pop.
• Honey – Balances the acidity, softening the flavors for a perfect harmony.

With these vibrant ingredients for your Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice, you’re set to create a culinary masterpiece that brings the warmth of the Caribbean right to your dinner table! Enjoy every tropical bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures that your jerk chicken cooks evenly and develops a beautiful golden crust. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients and prepare your cooking space. You’ll need a baking dish and a skillet to get started on this flavorful journey.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Drizzle boneless, skinless chicken breasts with olive oil and coat them generously with jerk seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and other spices. Make sure every piece is well-covered to lock in flavor, as this will be the key to delicious jerk chicken. Set the seasoned chicken aside as you heat up your skillet.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a touch of olive oil. Once hot, place the chicken in the skillet and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they’re beautifully browned. This step enhances the chicken’s flavor profile with a smoky char before transferring it to the oven for the final cooking.

Step 4: Roast the Chicken
Carefully transfer the skillet with the seared chicken to the preheated oven. Roast the chicken for 20-25 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You’ll know it’s done when the juices run clear and the chicken is no longer pink in the center, ensuring tender and juicy jerk chicken for your bowls.

Step 5: Cook the Coconut Rice
While the chicken roasts, rinse jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear, removing excess starch. In a saucepan, combine the rinse rice with coconut milk and water. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, until all liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 6: Fluff the Rice
After the coconut rice has cooked, remove it from the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in a spoonful of coconut oil for added creaminess and flavor. This step enhances the rice’s texture, making the perfect base for your vibrant Jerk Chicken Bowls.

Step 7: Make the Mango Salsa
To prepare the refreshing mango salsa, dice a large mango, red bell pepper, and red onion. In a mixing bowl, combine these ingredients with fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a touch of honey. Toss everything gently to blend the flavors, and set the salsa aside to allow the flavors to meld while the chicken finishes cooking.

Step 8: Rest the Chicken
Once the jerk chicken is out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period is crucial, as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite remains moist and flavorful. After resting, slice the chicken against the grain for optimal tenderness when serving.

Step 9: Assemble the Bowls
To create your Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice, start with a generous serving of the creamy coconut rice as your base. Top it with the sliced jerk chicken, followed by a generous spoonful of the zesty mango salsa. The colorful layers will not only look appetizing but also tantalize your taste buds with every bite.

Make Ahead Options

These Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice are fantastic for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate and season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; just ensure the chicken is well-coated in jerk seasoning and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain flavor. Additionally, the mango salsa can be prepared 3 hours ahead—simply combine all ingredients and refrigerate to enhance the flavors. When it’s time to serve, cook the chicken from the marinade directly in the oven, and prepare the coconut rice as directed. This method yields restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!

Expert Tips for Jerk Chicken Bowls

Maximize Flavor: Ensure chicken is thoroughly coated with jerk seasoning and spices for the most flavorful experience. This step is essential for delicious jerk chicken.

Don’t Rush Resting: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after roasting. This resting time boosts moisture retention, ensuring juicy chicken in your bowls.

Rinse Rice: Always rinse jasmine rice under cold water until it runs clear. This prevents stickiness and gives you fluffy coconut rice.

Taste Before Serving: Before assembling your bowls, taste the mango salsa. Adjust sweetness or acidity with more honey or lime juice as desired to ensure a perfect balance.

Customize Your Bowls: Feel free to mix up the ingredients! Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even grilled veggies for a delicious variation on your jerk chicken bowls with mango salsa and coconut rice.

What to Serve with Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice

Enhance your tropical feast with flavorful sides and drinks that perfectly complement this vibrant meal.

Crispy Fried Plantains: These sweet and savory bites add a delightful crunch, pairing beautifully with the spicy jerk chicken and creamy rice.
Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado brings a cooling element, balancing the heat from the jerk seasoning while adding smooth texture to your bowls.
Black Bean Salad: A zesty black bean salad with lime and cilantro offers extra protein and a colorful contrast to the dish.
Roasted Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn enhances the Caribbean vibe, providing a fun finger-food side that everyone will love.
Tropical Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of pineapple, kiwi, and berries brightens your meal, echoing the mango salsa’s sweetness and tang.
Simple Green Salad: Crisp greens with a lemon vinaigrette add a light, fresh touch, balancing the richness of the coconut rice.
Sparkling Water with Lime: Lightly sparkling water or a zesty mojito mocktail keeps the meal refreshing, echoing those tropical flavors without overpowering the dish.
Chocolate Coconut Macaroons: For dessert, these sweet bites echo the coconut rice’s creaminess, rounding off your meal with a delightful treat that’s hard to resist.

How to Store and Freeze Jerk Chicken Bowls

Fridge: Store leftover jerk chicken bowls in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Keep components separate to maintain the best texture; the chicken, rice, and salsa can last well in the fridge.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and coconut rice in separate freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat chicken and rice in the microwave or an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. The mango salsa should be added fresh for the best flavor.

Component Storage: To retain freshness, keep mango salsa stored in a separate container and consume within 2 days. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of your jerk chicken bowls at their best!

Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own! Each variation highlights new flavors and textures that complement the original recipe beautifully.

Brown Rice: Substitute jasmine rice with brown rice for a nuttier, heartier flavor. It offers an extra chewiness that pairs well with the spicy chicken.
Shrimp or Tofu: Replace the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a seafood twist or a plant-based option. Both will absorb the jerk seasoning’s vibrant flavors perfectly.
Extra Heat: If you crave more spice, add extra cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the mango salsa. The additional heat will wake up your taste buds and add a fiery kick.
Coconut Flakes: Boost the coconut flavor by adding toasted coconut flakes to the rice or as a topping. They add crunch and enhance that tropical vibe.
Pineapple Salsa: Swap mango for fresh pineapple in the salsa for a tangier twist. The sweetness of pineapple complements the jerk chicken wonderfully, creating a refreshing balance.
Plantain Slices: Serve crispy fried plantains on the side for added texture. They provide a delightful crunch and contrast to the softness of the rice and chicken.
Avocado Slices: For a creamy addition, include avocado slices with your bowls. The rich, buttery texture balances the spiciness of the jerk chicken beautifully.
Honey Variations: Experiment with different sweeteners in the mango salsa, such as agave nectar or maple syrup, to find the perfect balance of flavors for your palate.

With these ideas, your Jerk Chicken Bowls can become a delightful culinary celebration each time you make it. For more exciting chicken recipes, don’t miss out on my Crockpot Thai Coconut Chicken Soup or dive into Caramelised Soy Chicken for an entirely different flavor adventure!

Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best mango for the salsa?
Absolutely! Look for a mango that’s slightly soft to the touch, which indicates ripeness. The skin should have a beautiful, vibrant color free from dark spots. If it’s too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a couple of days until it ripens perfectly.

What is the best way to store leftover jerk chicken bowls?
Very simple! Store your leftover jerk chicken bowls in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend keeping the chicken, coconut rice, and mango salsa separate to maintain their textures and flavors. Just remember to reheat them gently when you’re ready to dig in!

Can I freeze the components of the jerk chicken bowls?
Absolutely! For freezing, I suggest placing the cooked jerk chicken and coconut rice in freezer-safe bags or containers, where they can last up to 2 months. Make sure to label them with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy, defrost them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What should I do if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly?
If you find your jerk chicken isn’t cooking evenly, it might be due to varying thickness in the pieces. For consistent cooking, you can pound the chicken to an even thickness before seasoning. Alternatively, ensure your oven is properly calibrated. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! These jerk chicken bowls are naturally gluten-free, making them a great option for gluten-sensitive diets. Always double-check your jerk seasoning for any hidden gluten. If you’re cooking for pets or have allergies, be mindful of the spices used and opt for milder alternatives if necessary.