Flavorful Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa & Rice

Catch a whiff of smoky spices dancing through the air as you envision a plate of Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice. Picture tender chicken marinated in bold flavors, topped with a zesty mango salsa that brightens every bite, all nestled on a fluffy bed of coconut rice. Strawberry Chicken Salad This dish doesn’t just satisfy hunger; it throws a flavor party that your taste buds won’t forget anytime soon.

Now, let me take you back to a sun-soaked afternoon when I first discovered the magic of jerk chicken. It was at a lively street fair, surrounded by laughter and music, where the aroma of grilled chicken mingled with the sound of steel drums. That unforgettable experience inspired me to recreate this vibrant dish at home, making it perfect for casual family dinners or festive gatherings. The anticipation of digging into these flavor-packed bowls is enough to make anyone do a happy dance in the kitchen.

Ingredients for Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice

For more inspiration, check out this one-pot chicken meals recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
• Jerk Seasoning: A blend of spices like allspice, thyme, and cayenne pepper gives that authentic kick.
• Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds acidity and balances out the rich flavors.
• Fresh Ginger: Grated ginger brings warmth and depth to your marinade.
• Mango: Use ripe mangoes for sweetness and vibrant color in your salsa.
• Red Onion: Chopped red onion provides crunch and a mild bite to the salsa.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro not only brightens up the salsa but also adds an earthy note.
• Coconut Milk: Creamy coconut milk is essential for making rich and flavorful coconut rice.
• Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice pairs perfectly with your jerk chicken and coconut milk.

For the Sauce:

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for moisture without overwhelming saltiness in your dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by mixing together jerk seasoning, lime juice, grated ginger, and olive oil in a bowl. Coat your boneless, skinless chicken breasts thoroughly with this mixture. Allow them to marinate for at least one hour—overnight is even better if you have patience!

Step 2: Prepare Coconut Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine jasmine rice, coconut milk, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low heat. Cover tightly and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until all liquid is absorbed.

Step 3: Make Mango Salsa

While the rice cooks, dice your ripe mangoes and chop red onion and cilantro. In a bowl, mix together these ingredients along with a splash of lime juice. Set aside so that those flavors can mingle while you finish cooking!

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each marinated chicken breast for about six to seven minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Let them rest before slicing.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

Fluff your coconut rice with a fork before serving it as the base in each bowl. Top with sliced jerk chicken and spoon generous amounts of mango salsa over everything.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Transfer to plates or bowls! Drizzle any remaining juices from cooking over top for extra flavor explosion—it’s like hitting the jackpot! Enjoy every bite as you savor those Caribbean vibes right from your kitchen.

This recipe brings together an array of flavors that will leave everyone begging for seconds! Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping throughout the week or impressing guests during gatherings. Happy cooking!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken for at least an hour, so the flavors truly sink in. While it’s soaking up goodness, prepare your coconut rice and mango salsa. Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, serve it all together for a delightful experience.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for turkey or even beef if you’re feeling adventurous. Add some extra spices like cumin or paprika to kick things up a notch, or toss in some black beans for added protein and texture.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep everything moist and flavorful, or pop it in the microwave for convenience.

It’s funny how cooking can turn into a family bonding experience. One time, while making these Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice, my niece decided to “help” by tossing way too much chili powder into the mix. The result? A fiery adventure that had us all laughing and reaching for glasses of milk!

FAQs

What ingredients are needed for Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice?

To prepare Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice, you will need chicken thighs, a blend of jerk spices, mango, red onion, lime juice, cilantro, coconut milk, jasmine rice, and bell peppers. For the jerk marinade, spices like allspice, thyme, and cayenne pepper work well. You can also add fresh vegetables to your bowls for added nutrition and flavor. The combination of these ingredients creates a deliciously vibrant dish that bursts with tropical flavors.

How do I cook the chicken for the Jerk Chicken Bowls?

Start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of jerk spices. Allow it to sit for at least an hour or overnight for deeper flavor. Grill or pan-sear the marinated chicken over medium-high heat until it’s fully cooked and has a nice char on the outside. This method ensures that the chicken remains juicy while infusing it with the bold flavors of the jerk seasoning. Let it rest briefly before slicing it to serve on top of your bowl.

Can I make a vegetarian version of Jerk Chicken Bowls?

Yes, you can easily create a vegetarian version of Jerk Chicken Bowls by substituting chicken with grilled vegetables or plant-based protein options like tofu or tempeh. Marinate your choice of protein in the same jerk seasoning to maintain that signature flavor profile. Pair it with the mango salsa and coconut rice for a refreshing bowl that is both satisfying and nutritious. This way, you can cater to various dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.

What pairs well with Jerk Chicken Bowls?

Jerk Chicken Bowls pair beautifully with sides like fresh salads, steamed vegetables, or even corn on the cob. You might also consider adding avocado slices or pickled onions for extra flavor and texture. For a complete meal experience, serve your bowls with a tangy dressing or additional lime wedges to enhance the dish’s brightness. Asian Sesame Chicken Salad These pairings complement the bold flavors of jerk seasoning while keeping your meal balanced and delicious.

Conclusion for Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice

Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice offer an explosion of flavor and freshness in every bite. The marinated chicken brings a spicy kick that pairs perfectly with the sweet mango salsa. Meanwhile, creamy coconut rice adds richness to balance out the dish. Bang Bang Chicken Bowl This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to cater to different dietary needs. Honey Garlic Chicken Enjoy this delightful bowl as a weeknight dinner or meal prep option that satisfies both taste buds and nutritional goals!

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Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice

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Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice are a vibrant culinary delight that combines the smoky, spicy flavors of jerk-marinated chicken with the refreshing sweetness of mango salsa, served over creamy coconut-infused rice. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, offering a tropical escape right at your dining table. Each bite bursts with flavor and texture, making it a memorable meal for family and friends.

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions

1. 1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix jerk seasoning, lime juice, ginger, and olive oil. Coat chicken breasts thoroughly and marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
2. 2. Prepare Coconut Rice: In a saucepan, combine jasmine rice, coconut milk, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
3. 3. Make Mango Salsa: Combine diced mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl. Set aside.
4. 4. Cook the Chicken: Preheat grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let rest before slicing.
5. 5. Assemble Bowls: Fluff coconut rice and serve as the base in bowls. Top with sliced chicken and generous amounts of mango salsa.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Caribbean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: For extra flavor in your mango salsa, add jalapeño for heat or avocado for creaminess. Substitute chicken with grilled vegetables or tofu for a vegetarian option.