Name: Jerk Chicken And Pineapple Skewers Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: 7 Scallions; 3 habanero peppers; 8 cloves garlic; 1 ginger; ⅓ cup dark brown sugar; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp ground allspice; 1 tsp Cinnamon; 1 tbsp dried thyme; 1½ lbs chicken breast; 8 oz pineapple juice; ¼ cup ketchup; kosher salt; 1 large red onion; 2 red bell peppers; 2 cups pineapple; lime wedge; ¼ cup cilantro; 8 bamboo skewers

Imagine the sweet tanginess of pineapple mingling with the robust spices of jerk chicken, all grilled to perfection. This is what our Jamaican jerk chicken and pineapple skewers recipe brings to your table. A dance of flavors in every bite, this recipe is a summertime favorite, perfect for backyard grilling, parties, or even a special dinner at home. Prepare yourself for an explosion of flavors, with the heat of habanero peppers, the sweetness of pineapple, and the savory jerk seasoning coming together harmoniously.

jerk chicken and pineapple skewers recipe

Photos of Jerk Chicken And Pineapple Skewers Recipe

Some of the ingredients in this recipe might be novel to some, particularly the habanero peppers, and the allspice. Habanero peppers are known for their heat but also have a fruity, citrus-like flavor that adds depth to dishes. They are significantly spicier than jalapenos, so handle them with care. Allspice, on the other hand, is a spice made from the dried berries of a plant known as Pimenta dioica. It has a flavor that is reminiscent of cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg all in one. These are essential ingredients in our Jamaican jerk chicken recipe, so make sure not to skip them when shopping.

Ingredients for Jamaican Jerk Chicken and Pineapple Skewers

Scallions: An essential in Jamaican cooking, these add a nice oniony flavor without being too overpowering.

Habanero peppers: These add heat and a unique fruity flavor to the jerk marinade.

Garlic: An all-around flavor enhancer, this adds a nice depth of flavor.

Ginger: This gives a fresh and zingy flavor to the marinade.

Brown sugar: This balances the heat and acidity in the marinade.

Soy sauce: Adds savory depth, known as umami, to the marinade.

Ground allspice: A key spice in jerk seasoning, it has a warm, sweet flavor profile.

Cinnamon: This adds a hint of warmth and sweetness to the marinade.

Dried thyme: This herb lends earthy and slightly minty tones.

Chicken breast: The star of the dish, it's lean and takes on the marinade really well.

Pineapple juice: Adds a tropical sweetness to the jerk sauce.

Ketchup: This gives the sauce some body and a hint of sweetness.

Salt: Brings out the flavors of all other ingredients.

Red onion: Provides a sharp flavor that pairs well with the sweet pineapple.

Red bell peppers: These add a sweet, slightly bitter flavor and a nice crunch.

Pineapple: Its sweetness perfectly balances the heat of the marinade.

Lime wedge: A squeeze of this adds freshness and brightness to the finished dish.

Cilantro: A garnish that adds a fresh and citrusy finish.

Bamboo skewers: Used to hold everything together on the grill.

One reader, Filippa Staten says:

This Jamaican jerk chicken and pineapple skewers recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are out of this world, and the combination of spices and pineapple juice creates a perfect balance. The chicken is tender, and the caramelized pineapple adds a delightful sweetness. It's a must-try for anyone who loves bold, tropical flavors!

Filippa Staten

Techniques Required for Jamaican Jerk Chicken and Pineapple Skewers

How to prepare the jerk paste: Combine scallions, habanero peppers, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, soy sauce, allspice, cinnamon, and thyme in a food processor and puree until it forms a thick paste.

How to marinate the chicken: Toss the chicken with 2 to 4 tablespoons of the jerk paste until well coated in a medium bowl. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.

How to make the jerk sauce: Combine 2 to 4 tablespoons of the jerk paste with pineapple juice and ketchup. Season to taste with salt.

How to assemble the skewers: Thread the skewers with 2 pieces each of the marinated chicken, red onion, bell pepper, and pineapple, alternating the ingredients.

How to roast the skewers: Arrange the skewers on prepared baking sheets, season with salt, and brush about ⅓ cup of the jerk sauce over the skewers. Roast for 22 to 25 minutes, turning halfway, until the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.

How to broil the skewers: Baste the skewers on all sides with the jerk sauce and broil for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables just begin to char and the sauce is slightly caramelized.

How to serve: Transfer the skewers to a platter, squeeze the lime wedges over the hot skewers, and garnish with cilantro. Enjoy!

How To Make Jerk Chicken And Pineapple Skewers

Experience tropical flavors by combining the smoky flavor of the chicken and the sweet, charred taste of the pineapple. Try these chicken skewers!

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 45 minutes

Total: 1 hour 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

7scallions,cut into 2-inch pieces
3habanero peppers,seeded
8clovesgarlic
1ginger,fresh, peeled and thinly sliced
⅓cupdark brown sugar,tightly packed
2tbspsoy sauce
1tbspground allspice
1tspcinnamon
1tbspdried thyme
1½lbschicken breast
8ozpineapple juice
¼cupketchup,plus 2 tbsp of ketchup
kosher salt,to taste
1large red onion
2red bell peppers
2cupspineapple
lime wedge,for serving
¼cupcilantro,fresh, finely chopped, for garnish
8bamboo skewers

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a food processor, combine the scallions, habanero peppers, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, soy sauce, allspice, cinnamon, and thyme. Puree until broken down into a into a thick paste, about 1 minute.
In a medium bowl, toss the chicken with 2 to 4 tablespoons of the jerk paste until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.
To make the jerk sauce, combine 2 to 4 tablespoons of the jerk paste with the pineapple juice and ketchup. Season to taste with salt.
Thread the skewers with 2 pieces each of the marinated chicken, red onion, bell pepper, and pineapple, alternating ingredients.
Arrange the skewers on the prepared baking sheets. Season with salt. Brush about ⅓ cup of the jerk sauce over the skewers. Reserve the remaining sauce.
Roast the skewers for 22 to 25 minutes, turning halfway, until the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
Remove the baking sheets from the oven and discard the parchment paper, then return the skewers to the pans. Turn the broiler to high.
Baste the skewers on all sides with the jerk sauce.
Broil for 3 to 4 minutes, until the vegetables just begin to char and the sauce is slightly caramelized.
Transfer the skewers to a platter. Squeeze the lime wedges over the hot skewers and garnish with the cilantro.
Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 511.16kcal
Fat: 16.68g
Saturated Fat: 4.72g
Trans Fat: 0.18g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.58g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.61g
Carbohydrates: 53.22g
Fiber: 6.35g
Sugar: 35.40g
Protein: 39.60g
Cholesterol: 108.86mg
Sodium: 1306.45mg
Calcium: 119.49mg
Potassium: 1087.94mg
Iron: 3.82mg
Vitamin A: 161.63µg
Vitamin C: 200.88mg

Helpful Technique for Preparing Jamaican Jerk Chicken Skewers

When marinating the chicken, ensure that all pieces are evenly coated with the jerk paste. This will allow the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Also, turning the skewers halfway through the roasting process ensures even cooking and browning. Lastly, when broiling, keep a close eye on the skewers to prevent them from burning. The goal is to achieve a slight char and caramelization without overcooking the ingredients.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Jerk Chicken Skewers

Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken and prepare the jerk paste the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-cut ingredients: Purchase pre-cut pineapple, bell peppers, and onions to minimize prep time.

Grill instead of roast: Consider grilling the skewers instead of roasting them in the oven for a quicker cooking process.

Invest in a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly blend the jerk paste ingredients, saving time and effort compared to chopping by hand.

Organize your workspace: Set up all the ingredients and tools in an organized manner before starting to cook to streamline the process.

Multi-task: While the chicken is marinating, prepare the jerk sauce and chop the vegetables to make the most of your time in the kitchen.

Substitute Ingredients For Jerk Chicken And Pineapple Skewers Recipe

scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives have a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a substitute for scallions in this recipe.
habanero peppers - Substitute with jalapeño peppers: Jalapeño peppers are milder than habanero peppers and can be used as a substitute to reduce the heat level in the dish.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a similar flavor without the need for mincing or chopping.
ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used as a substitute for fresh ginger, providing a convenient alternative with a similar flavor profile.
dark brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for dark brown sugar, adding a rich sweetness to the marinade.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
ground allspice - Substitute with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves mix: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves can be used as a substitute for ground allspice, providing a similar warm and aromatic flavor.
dried thyme - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano can be used as a substitute for dried thyme, providing a slightly different herbaceous flavor to the marinade.
chicken breast - Substitute with pork tenderloin: Pork tenderloin can be used as a substitute for chicken breast, offering a different texture and flavor while still pairing well with the marinade.
pineapple juice - Substitute with orange juice: Orange juice can be used as a substitute for pineapple juice, adding a citrusy sweetness to the marinade.
ketchup - Substitute with tomato paste: Tomato paste can be used as a substitute for ketchup, providing a concentrated tomato flavor to the marinade.
red onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onion can be used as a substitute for red onion, providing a similar pungent flavor to the skewers.
red bell peppers - Substitute with yellow bell peppers: Yellow bell peppers can be used as a substitute for red bell peppers, adding a slightly different color and flavor to the skewers.
pineapple - Substitute with mango: Mango can be used as a substitute for pineapple, providing a sweet and tropical flavor to the skewers.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, providing a fresh herbaceous flavor to the dish.
bamboo skewers - Substitute with metal skewers: Metal skewers can be used as a substitute for bamboo skewers, offering a reusable and sturdy alternative for grilling.

Presentation Ideas for Jamaican Jerk Chicken Skewers

Elevate the skewers on a bed of coconut rice: Create a visually stunning presentation by serving the Jamaican jerk chicken and pineapple skewers on a bed of fragrant coconut rice, adding a touch of elegance and complementing the flavors of the dish.
Garnish with vibrant microgreens: Add a pop of color and freshness to the dish by delicately garnishing the skewers with vibrant microgreens, such as cilantro or arugula, enhancing the visual appeal and providing a subtle contrast to the rich flavors.
Incorporate edible flowers: Elevate the presentation by incorporating edible flowers, such as orchids or nasturtiums, to add a touch of sophistication and a visually captivating element to the dish, impressing the culinary professionals with a refined and artistic touch.
Arrange the skewers in a geometric pattern: Showcase your attention to detail by arranging the skewers in a precise and visually appealing geometric pattern on the plate, demonstrating precision and artistry in the presentation.
Accent with a drizzle of jerk sauce: Use a fine drizzle of the jerk sauce to create an artistic and appetizing accent on the plate, adding a touch of complexity and tying the dish together with a visually appealing finishing touch.
Serve on handcrafted ceramic plates: Present the skewers on handcrafted ceramic plates to add a rustic yet elegant touch to the presentation, showcasing an appreciation for artisanal craftsmanship and enhancing the overall dining experience.
Utilize bamboo serving boards: For a more casual yet sophisticated presentation, serve the skewers on bamboo serving boards, adding a touch of natural charm and creating a visually appealing display that resonates with the dish's tropical flavors.
Incorporate smoke infusion: Impress the culinary professionals by incorporating a subtle smoke infusion presentation, using a cloche to unveil the aromatic skewers, adding an element of surprise and sensory experience to the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Jerk Chicken and Pineapple Skewers

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, pureeing, and mixing ingredients. It's perfect for creating the jerk paste in this recipe.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for tossing the chicken with the jerk paste and marinating it. It's also useful for combining ingredients and ensuring even coating.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Jerk Chicken and Pineapple Skewers

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for Jamaican jerk chicken and pineapple skewers:

Let the skewers cool completely before storing. Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
To reheat, place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the texture may become slightly soggy.
For longer storage, freeze the cooled skewers in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 2-3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil first to prevent freezer burn.
To reheat frozen skewers, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Then, follow the reheating instructions above. Alternatively, you can reheat them directly from frozen in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
If you have extra jerk sauce, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can also freeze the sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before using.
For best quality, consume the skewers within the recommended storage times. Always reheat them until they are steaming hot throughout to ensure food safety.

How To Reheat Leftover Jerk Chicken Skewers

To reheat leftover Jamaican jerk chicken and pineapple skewers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Brush the skewers with a little bit of reserved jerk sauce or some olive oil to prevent them from drying out. Cover the skewers loosely with foil and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Alternatively, you can reheat the skewers on a grill or grill pan. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the chicken is heated through and the vegetables and pineapple are lightly charred. Brush with additional jerk sauce during the last minute of cooking for extra flavor.
For a quick and easy option, you can also reheat the skewers in the microwave. Place the skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Be careful not to overcook the skewers in the microwave, as this can cause the chicken to become tough and rubbery.
If you have leftover jerk sauce, you can warm it up in a small saucepan over low heat or in the microwave for a few seconds. Drizzle the warm sauce over the reheated skewers for an extra burst of flavor.
To prevent the skewers from drying out during reheating, you can also wrap them in foil before placing them in the oven or on the grill. This will help to lock in the moisture and keep the chicken and vegetables tender and juicy.

Interesting Fact About Jamaican Jerk Chicken

The Jamaican jerk chicken and pineapple skewers recipe is a delicious fusion of sweet and spicy flavors. The combination of the jerk marinade and the caramelized pineapple creates a unique and mouthwatering taste. This dish is perfect for grilling and is a great option for a summer barbecue. The marinade's blend of scallions, habanero peppers, and spices gives the chicken a bold and flavorful kick. It's a fantastic way to add a taste of the Caribbean to your menu.

Is Making Jerk Chicken and Pineapple Skewers at Home Cost-Effective?

This Jamaican jerk chicken and pineapple skewers recipe is relatively cost-effective for a household. The key ingredients, such as chicken breast, pineapple, and bell peppers, are generally affordable and widely available. The use of pantry staples like garlic, soy sauce, and brown sugar adds depth of flavor without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30, making it a budget-friendly option for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Overall Verdict: 9.

Is Jamaican Jerk Chicken and Pineapple Skewers Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Jamaican jerk chicken and pineapple skewers recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish that offers some health benefits, but also has room for improvement. Here's a breakdown of the recipe's healthiness:

Positives:

The recipe includes lean protein from the chicken breast, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, and maintaining muscle mass.
The use of fresh ingredients like scallions, garlic, ginger, and bell peppers provides a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Pineapple is a good source of vitamin C, which supports immune function and aids in the absorption of iron from the chicken.

Negatives:

The jerk paste contains a significant amount of brown sugar, which adds extra calories and sugar to the dish.
The recipe calls for habanero peppers, which can be very spicy and may not be suitable for everyone.
The use of ketchup in the jerk sauce adds additional sugar and sodium to the recipe.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of brown sugar in the jerk paste, or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Use a milder pepper, such as jalapeño, instead of habanero to make the dish more accessible to those with lower spice tolerance.
Replace the ketchup in the jerk sauce with a low-sugar or sugar-free alternative, or use tomato paste for a similar flavor without the added sugar.
Serve the skewers with a side of fresh, leafy greens or a colorful salad to increase the overall nutrient content of the meal.
Opt for whole grain or cauliflower rice instead of traditional white rice as an accompaniment to boost the fiber content.

Editor's Opinion on This Jerk Chicken and Pineapple Skewers Recipe

This Jamaican jerk chicken and pineapple skewers recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The aromatic jerk paste infuses the chicken with a perfect balance of heat and sweetness, while the pineapple adds a refreshing tropical twist. The vibrant colors of the skewered ingredients make for a visually stunning dish. The cooking method ensures that the chicken is tender and juicy, and the caramelized jerk sauce adds a mouthwatering finish. Overall, this recipe promises a tantalizing culinary experience that is sure to impress both your palate and your guests.

Enhance Your Jerk Chicken And Pineapple Skewers Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Coconut Rice and Peas: Try serving the Jamaican jerk chicken and pineapple skewers with a side of creamy coconut rice and peas for a taste of the Caribbean.

Mango Salsa: Add a refreshing twist to the meal by serving a vibrant mango salsa on the side, featuring ripe mangoes, red onion, cilantro, and a hint of lime juice.

Plantain Chips: For a crunchy and flavorful accompaniment, whip up a batch of crispy plantain chips to complement the spicy and sweet flavors of the skewers.

Similar Recipes to Jamaican Jerk Chicken and Pineapple Skewers

Spicy Shrimp Tacos: These spicy shrimp tacos are a perfect combination of heat and flavor, with a delicious mix of spices and fresh ingredients.

Mango BBQ Pork Ribs: These mango BBQ pork ribs are a sweet and savory twist on classic BBQ ribs, with a tropical mango glaze that will have your taste buds singing.

Coconut Curry Vegetable Stir-Fry: This coconut curry vegetable stir-fry is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy a variety of colorful vegetables, all cooked in a flavorful coconut curry sauce.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Jamaican Jerk Chicken and Pineapple Skewers

Appetizers:

Caprese Salad Skewers: Impress your guests with these elegant and refreshing Caprese Salad Skewers. The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil drizzled with balsamic glaze is a perfect way to start any meal.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of Stuffed Mushrooms. These bite-sized appetizers are filled with a delicious mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection. They are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner at home.

Banana Foster: Savor the sweet and caramelized flavors of bananas foster, served warm over a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of ripe bananas, brown sugar, and rum creates a decadent and irresistible dessert that is sure to impress your guests.

Why trust this Jerk Chicken And Pineapple Skewers Recipe:

This recipe is a delicious fusion of Jamaican jerk flavors and succulent pineapple. The marinade is packed with aromatic scallions, fiery habanero peppers, and fragrant thyme, ensuring an explosion of Caribbean taste. The use of pineapple juice in the jerk sauce adds a sweet and tangy element, perfectly complementing the savory chicken and vibrant bell peppers. The combination of these fresh, high-quality ingredients promises a tantalizing dish that will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise.

Want to share your own twist on this Jerk Chicken And Pineapple Skewers Recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum to discuss and swap ideas with fellow cooking enthusiasts!

FAQ:

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken for this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Can I substitute the habanero peppers with a milder pepper?

Absolutely! If you prefer a milder heat, you can substitute the habanero peppers with jalapeños or another milder pepper of your choice.

Can I grill the skewers instead of roasting them in the oven?

Of course! Grilling the skewers will add a delicious smoky flavor. Just be sure to preheat the grill and cook the skewers over medium heat, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked.

How long can I marinate the chicken for?

You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor. However, if you're short on time, even 30 minutes of marinating will still infuse the chicken with the jerk seasoning.

Can I make the jerk sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the jerk sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before using it on the skewers.