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One Pot Caribbean Jerk Chicken & Rice

One Pot Caribbean Jerk Chicken & Rice

A vibrant and easy one-pot Caribbean Jerk Chicken & Rice recipe packed with bold, spicy flavors, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice. Ideal for weeknight meals, this dish combines authentic Caribbean zest with convenience and balanced nutrition.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 4 chicken thighs or breasts, skin-on for extra flavor

Spices and Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning blend (allspice, thyme, garlic, chili)
  • 1 Scotch bonnet pepper or 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional, for heat)

Grains

  • 1 ½ cups long grain white rice

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids

  • 2 ½ cups chicken broth (gluten-free if needed)

Garnish

  • Chopped fresh herbs (cilantro or parsley)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken generously with jerk seasoning and set aside for at least 10 minutes to let the flavors soak in, ensuring every bite is bursting with Caribbean zest.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides until golden to lock in juices. Remove and set aside while you cook the aromatics.
  3. Cook Aromatics and Vegetables: Add chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers to the same pot. Sauté until soft and fragrant, scraping up browned bits from the bottom to build savory layers.
  4. Add Rice and Liquids: Stir in the rice, coating it in the flavorful base. Pour in chicken broth and add any additional seasoning like hot sauce or crushed Scotch bonnet pepper for authentic heat.
  5. Combine Chicken and Simmer: Return the chicken to the pot, nestling it into the rice mixture. Cover and simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes until the rice is fluffy and chicken is cooked through.
  6. Finish and Garnish: Fluff the rice gently with a fork, discard any whole Scotch bonnet pepper used, and sprinkle chopped fresh herbs on top to brighten flavors before serving.

Notes

  • Use bone-in chicken for extra richness and juiciness.
  • Toast jerk seasoning briefly before mixing to enhance aroma.
  • Adjust the quantity of Scotch bonnet pepper to control heat level.
  • Keep pot covered during simmering to steam rice properly and prevent drying.
  • Let the cooked dish rest off-heat with lid closed for 5 minutes to settle flavors and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: one pot meal, jerk chicken, Caribbean recipe, chicken and rice, easy dinner, spicy chicken, gluten free