Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice

If you’re looking for a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean to your table, look no further than these Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice. This recipe is a family favorite in my home because it combines tender, spicy jerk chicken with the refreshing sweetness of mango salsa. The creamy coconut rice ties everything together, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights or festive family gatherings. Every bite is an explosion of flavor that feels like a mini vacation!

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare without sacrificing any taste. You can whip up these bowls in just over an hour, and they are sure to impress everyone at your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknight dinners when time is short but flavor is a must.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the delicious combination of flavors.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the components ahead of time for a stress-free meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients that are good for you and satisfy hunger.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you can find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need to create these mouthwatering Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice:

For the Jerk Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon ground thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Coconut Rice

• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil

For the Mango Salsa

• 1 large mango, diced
• 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon honey
• 1/2 cup corn kernels

Additional Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking chicken)
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using grilled shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
• Add extra veggies: Incorporate bell peppers or zucchini into your bowl for added nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add some diced jalapeños to your mango salsa.
• Switch up the grains: Substitute quinoa or brown rice for coconut rice for a hearty twist.

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

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by preheating your grill or stovetop grill pan to medium-high heat. In a small bowl, mix together the jerk seasoning, allspice, thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This spice blend gives our chicken that signature jerk flavor! Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and coat them evenly with this mixture. Letting them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes allows those spices to infuse into the meat.

Step 2: Prepare the Coconut Rice

While your chicken marinates, rinse the rice under cold water until it runs clear—this helps remove excess starch and keeps the rice from getting gummy. In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the rinsed rice and coconut milk. Once boiling, reduce to low heat, cover it up, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes. This step creates creamy coconut rice that perfectly complements our jerk chicken!

Step 3: Make the Mango Salsa

Next up is our refreshing mango salsa! Start by peeling and dicing your mango into small cubes—this juicy fruit adds sweetness that balances out the spice of our chicken. Combine it in a bowl with finely chopped red onion and cilantro. Add lime juice and honey to bring everything together beautifully. For an extra burst of flavor, sauté corn kernels in olive oil until slightly charred before mixing them into your salsa.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Now it’s time to cook our marinated chicken! Preheat a grill or large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Place those flavorful chicken breasts onto the grill or skillet and cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures they are juicy but well-cooked!

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

Once everything is cooked and ready to go, let your chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips. To assemble your bowls, start with a generous scoop of coconut rice as your base. Top it off with sliced jerk chicken and spoon over that luscious mango salsa. If you’re feeling fancy, serve with extra cilantro and lime wedges on the side!

And there you have it—a delightful dish bursting with flavor that’s easy enough for any day but special enough for occasions! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice

Creating a delicious and vibrant bowl of jerk chicken is easier than you think! Here are a few tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes (or even up to 24 hours in the fridge) helps the spices penetrate deeply, giving you that amazing jerk flavor.

• Rinse Your Rice: Rinsing the rice under cold water not only removes excess starch but also prevents it from becoming gummy. This ensures that your coconut rice remains fluffy and light.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh herbs and ripe mangoes. Fresh ingredients can significantly enhance the flavors of your salsa and overall dish, making each bite a delight.

• Watch the Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your chicken while it cooks. Overcooking can lead to dryness; aim for that sweet spot where it’s juicy but fully cooked through.

• Experiment with Heat: If you enjoy a little extra kick, feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in your seasoning mix or add some sliced jalapeños to your mango salsa for an added layer of flavor.

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

Serving your jerk chicken bowls with mango salsa and coconut rice can be as fun as preparing them! The colorful layers and fresh ingredients make this dish not only tasty but also visually appealing.

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and enhances the tropical flavor profile.
• Lime Wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their bowl, brightening up all the flavors.
• Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices complement the spiciness of the jerk chicken beautifully, adding richness to each bite.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetables: Colorful grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus bring additional texture and nutrition, making your meal even more satisfying.
• Black Bean Salad: A refreshing black bean salad with corn, tomatoes, and lime dressing offers a hearty complement to your jerk chicken bowls that balances flavors nicely.
• Tropical Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring pineapples, kiwis, and berries can act as a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of spicy chicken.
• Crispy Plantains: Fried or baked plantains add a sweet crunch that pairs well with the spice of the jerk chicken, adding another layer of Caribbean flair to your meal.

With these serving ideas and tips in hand, you’re ready to impress friends and family with a stunning presentation that’s just as delicious as it is beautiful. Enjoy every savory bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice recipe is perfect for meal prep! With vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, it keeps well in the fridge, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bowls to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the chicken, rice, and mango salsa into airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken and coconut rice separately.
• Place them in freezer-safe bags or airtight containers.
• The mango salsa is best enjoyed fresh, so avoid freezing it; instead, prepare it fresh when you’re ready to eat.

Reheating

• To reheat the chicken and rice, place them in a microwave-safe container with a splash of water or coconut milk to retain moisture.
• Cover and heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stir the mixture halfway for even heating. Enjoy your meal!

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken in Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey, tofu, or even shrimp. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on your protein choice.

How do I make Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, replace the jerk chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant seasoned with jerk spices. The rest of the ingredients remain unchanged!

Can I add more spice to my Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice?

Yes! If you love extra heat, try adding more cayenne pepper or serve with sliced jalapeños on top. You can also use a spicier jerk seasoning blend if you prefer.

What should I serve alongside Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice?

These bowls are complete on their own, but you could pair them with a simple green salad or grilled veggies for added nutrition.

How long does it take to prepare Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice?

The total time for this recipe is about 1 hour and 10 minutes, including both preparation and cooking. Perfect for a weekend dinner or meal prep session!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Jerk Chicken Bowls with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice as much as I do! The combination of smoky spices from the chicken balanced by the sweet mango salsa creates an unforgettable meal that’s sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to customize it to your taste! Happy cooking!