How to Make Jerk Chicken Pasta
Introduction
If you’re a fan of bold and flavorful dishes, then this jerk chicken pasta recipe is for you! Combining the heat of jerk seasoning with the creamy richness of pasta, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking to try something new, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to tantalize your senses with every bite!
Ingredients
To make this delicious jerk chicken pasta, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
- 8 ounces of pasta (your choice of shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Directions
Follow these simple steps to whip up this tasty jerk chicken pasta:
- Begin by marinating the chicken breasts in the jerk seasoning. Coat the chicken evenly and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent.
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the marinated chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
If desired, mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry, then stir it into the skillet to thicken the sauce.
Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly in the sauce.
Serve the jerk chicken pasta in individual bowls or plates, and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Dig in and enjoy this flavorful and satisfying jerk chicken pasta!
FAQ
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are commonly used for this recipe, you can substitute bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks if you prefer. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Is jerk seasoning very spicy?
A: Jerk seasoning does have a kick of heat, but you can control the spiciness based on your personal preference. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount of jerk seasoning used or opt for a milder version.
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can! Simply omit the chicken and use your favorite vegetables instead. Consider adding mushrooms, zucchini, or even plant-based protein alternatives like tofu or tempeh.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While this jerk chicken pasta tastes best when freshly made, you can prepare some components in advance. Marinate the chicken in the jerk seasoning and chop the vegetables ahead of time, then assemble and cook the dish when you’re ready to serve.
Q: What can I serve with jerk chicken pasta?
A: Jerk chicken pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread for a more substantial spread. And don’t forget a refreshing drink to cool off the heat!
Now that you have the recipe and some additional tips, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking. Try out this jerk chicken pasta recipe and bring some Caribbean-inspired flavors to your dinner table!
