Jerk Chicken Bowl Pineapple Salsa (Print Version)
Spicy jerk chicken, pineapple salsa, rice, avocado and cabbage come together in a bright, tropical bowl.
# What You Need:
→ Jerk Chicken
01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
02 - 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
04 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
05 - 2 teaspoons brown sugar
06 - Juice of 1 lime
07 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Pineapple Salsa
08 - 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
09 - 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
10 - 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
11 - 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
12 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
13 - Juice of 1 lime
14 - Salt, to taste
→ Bowls & Garnishes
15 - 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
16 - 1 cup shredded red cabbage
17 - 1 avocado, sliced
18 - 1/4 cup scallions, sliced
19 - Lime wedges, for serving
# Directions:
01 - Whisk together jerk seasoning, olive oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, and minced garlic in a mixing bowl until well combined.
02 - Add chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring even coating. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
03 - Combine pineapple, red onion, red bell pepper, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. Toss thoroughly and set aside.
04 - Preheat grill pan or large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear marinated chicken thighs for 6 to 7 minutes per side until cooked through and slightly charred. Rest chicken for 2 to 3 minutes, then slice.
05 - Divide cooked rice evenly among four bowls. Top each with shredded red cabbage, sliced avocado, and grilled chicken. Spoon pineapple salsa over chicken and garnish with scallions and lime wedges.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- This bowl balances spicy, sweet, and fresh flavors in every bite—like a party in your mouth only you know the secret to.
- It’s ridiculously customizable and impressively colorful, making it a go-to when you want to wow guests or just treat yourself.
02 -
- Don’t rush the chicken—taking it off the heat too early means missing out on those irresistible crispy edges.
- Resting the cooked chicken is non-negotiable if you want slices that stay juicy and tender.
03 -
- Letting the pineapple salsa sit for 10 minutes intensifies the flavors and tames the onion.
- Slice the cooked chicken against the grain for the most tender pieces—a trick that always gets compliments.