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Are you ready to bring some island vibes to your dinner table? This Caribbean Jerk Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is a mouthwatering medley of spicy, zesty, and savory flavors. Loaded with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and bold Caribbean spices, it’s a quick and healthy meal that will have you dreaming of Jamaica with every bite.

Caribbean Jerk Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

Caribbean jerk chicken is a spicy chicken recipe originating from Jamaica. Chicken is marinated with spices, lime juice, sugar and Jalapeno pepper and then stir-fried. Delicious!

If you ever had so-called “spicy” chicken that was seasoned on the outside and bland on the inside, this recipe is the opposite of that. Since the chicken is marinated, the flavor really permeates the chicken all the way through. This Caribbean jerk chicken is bursting with flavor with every bite!

For this recipe, I use bottled Caribbean Jerk seasoning that is widely available in the spice section of most supermarkets. Sometimes it’s labeled as “Jamaican Jerk seasoning” or simply “Jerk seasoning”.

Why You’ll Love Caribbean Jerk Chicken Stir Fry

Bursting with Bold Flavors: Every bite is packed with the perfect blend of heat and tanginess from the jerk spices and lime juice, creating a flavor explosion. The marination ensures the chicken is seasoned to perfection, inside and out.
Healthy and Colorful: Loaded with fresh vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions, this stir fry is both nutritious and visually appealing. It’s a guilt-free meal full of vitamins and vibrant colors.
Quick and Easy to Make: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Marinate the chicken ahead of time, and it’s ready to stir fry in just minutes.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, quinoa, or even lettuce wraps for a light and refreshing meal. It pairs well with so many side dishes, making it adaptable to your preferences.
Perfect for Spice Lovers: The jalapeño and Caribbean jerk seasoning give this dish a spicy kick that is sure to satisfy those who love bold and fiery flavors.

Caribbean Jerk Chicken Stir Fry With Vegetables

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken breast or thighs, cut into pieces – Tender and juicy, the base of the dish that soaks up all the bold flavors.
2 onions, sliced – Add a touch of sweetness and depth to the stir fry.
2 zucchinis, sliced – Provide a fresh, mild flavor and a satisfying crunch.
2 bell peppers, sliced – Bright, colorful, and slightly sweet, they enhance the visual appeal and taste.
3 tbsp Caribbean Jerk seasoning – The star of the show, delivering a punch of spices that define the dish.
1 tbsp sugar – Balances out the heat with a hint of sweetness.
1 Jalapeno pepper, minced (seeds discarded) – Brings the heat and authentic spice to the recipe.
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice – Adds a tangy zest that brightens the dish.
1 tbsp oil – Used for stir-frying the chicken and vegetables.
1/2 tsp salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
1/8 tsp pepper – Adds a subtle kick to complement the spices.

For a printable card of the ingredients, check out the recipe card at the end of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Caribbean Jerk Chicken Stir Fry

Measuring spoons – For accurately measuring the spices and seasonings.
Measuring cup – For the lime juice and oil.
Non-stick frying pan – Ensures the chicken and vegetables cook evenly without sticking.
Cutting board – For slicing the chicken and chopping the vegetables.
Knife – To slice and mince the ingredients.
Large mixing bowl – To combine the marinade and coat the chicken.
Rubber gloves – Protect your hands when handling the spicy jalapeño and jerk seasoning.

Instructions How To Make Jerk Chicken

Mix the Caribbean Jerk seasoning with sugar, minced Jalapeno and lime juice.
Rub the chicken pieces with the seasoning mixture all over. (Wear rubber gloves so your hands don’t get irritated by Jalapeno and spices)
Put the chicken in a plastic zipper bag and refrigerate overnight, so it marinates well (as an alternative, you can marinate the chicken for 30 minutes on the counter).
Heat 1/2 tbsp of oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions, zucchini and bell peppers and cook, stirring periodically, for 5 minutes.
Sprinkle the vegetables with salt and pepper and mix. Remove the vegetables from the frying pan.
Heat another 1/2 tbsp of oil in that frying pan. Add the marinated chicken and cook, stirring periodically, for 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (no longer pink in the middle).
Add cooked vegetables to the chicken and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Remove the jerk chicken stir fry from heat and serve. Great over rice!

Enjoy this delicious Caribbean Jerk chicken! For more tropical flavors, check out Hawaiian pizza recipe!

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Caribbean Jerk Chicken Stir Fry over a bed of steamed jasmine rice to soak up all the delicious sauce.
Pair it with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb option.
Add a slice of lime on the side for an extra burst of fresh citrus flavor.
Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or green onions to enhance the presentation and taste.
Enjoy it as a filling for lettuce wraps for a fun and refreshing way to eat this flavorful dish.

Tips For Success

Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate overnight if possible. This lets the jerk seasoning penetrate deeply, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. If you’re short on time, even a quick 30-minute marinade will still deliver tasty results.
Use Fresh Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a tangy brightness that bottled juice can’t match. It’s worth the extra step for the best flavor.
Handle Spices Carefully: When working with jalapeños or jerk seasoning, wear rubber gloves to protect your hands from irritation. Always wash your hands thoroughly afterward, especially before touching your face.
Cook Veggies Just Right: Keep the vegetables slightly crisp when stir-frying. Overcooking can make them mushy and take away from the dish’s texture.
Check Chicken Doneness: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by cutting into the thickest piece. It should be white and opaque, with no pink in the center. A food thermometer can also confirm an internal temperature of 165°F.
Customize the Heat Level: If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the amount of jalapeño or use a milder chili. Alternatively, add an extra kick by leaving some seeds in or incorporating a hotter pepper.
Work Quickly with High Heat: Stir-frying requires constant movement to cook ingredients evenly and avoid burning. Keep your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking.
Serve Fresh: For the best texture and flavor, serve this dish immediately after cooking. Reheating is possible but might slightly soften the vegetables.

Variations And Substitutions

Protein Options: Swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or beef to create a new version of this dish. Shrimp cooks quickly, making it a great choice for a fast meal. For a plant-based option, use tofu or tempeh, ensuring they are well-marinated for maximum flavor.
Vegetable Swaps: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Broccoli, snap peas, mushrooms, or carrots are excellent substitutes. You can also mix and match veggies for a more colorful and nutrient-packed dish.
Adjusting Spice Levels: Reduce the heat by omitting the jalapeño or using a milder chili. If you want an extra spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade. You can also try different chili varieties for a unique flavor profile.
Sweet and Spicy Twist: Add pineapple chunks or mango slices to the stir fry for a sweet contrast to the spiciness. This Caribbean-inspired addition will bring a tropical flair to the dish.
Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional rice. These options keep the dish lighter while maintaining its satisfying qualities.
Herb Enhancements: Garnish the dish with fresh cilantro, parsley, or green onions for a pop of color and flavor. For an even more tropical touch, sprinkle some shredded coconut on top.
Different Seasonings: If you can’t find Caribbean Jerk seasoning, create your own by mixing spices like allspice, thyme, paprika, nutmeg, and cayenne. This ensures you still get that authentic jerk flavor.
Dietary Customizations: For a gluten-free version, ensure your jerk seasoning is certified gluten-free. To make it dairy-free, follow the recipe as is since it contains no dairy ingredients.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish is completely cooled before sealing the container to prevent excess moisture buildup.
Freezing: If you want to save it for a longer period, freeze the stir fry in individual portions. Place in freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring as much air as possible is removed to prevent freezer burn. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Reheating on the Stovetop: For the best texture, reheat the stir fry on the stovetop. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and stir the dish occasionally until it’s heated through.
Microwave Option: If you’re short on time, use the microwave. Transfer the desired portion to a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Avoid Overcooking: Be careful not to overheat, as the vegetables might lose their crispness and become too soft. Add a splash of water or lime juice during reheating to keep the dish moist and flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken, but the flavor might not be as intense since it won’t absorb the marinade as effectively. If using pre-cooked chicken, toss it in the jerk seasoning mixture and let it sit for about 10 minutes before adding it to the stir fry.

What type of rice pairs best with this dish?

Jasmine rice is a fantastic option because of its light and fragrant aroma. However, basmati rice, brown rice, or even coconut rice would work beautifully with the bold flavors of the jerk chicken stir fry.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe can be gluten-free as long as your jerk seasoning does not contain gluten. Be sure to check the ingredient label of the seasoning mix to confirm.

How do I reduce the spiciness if it’s too hot for me?

To reduce the heat, you can omit or reduce the jalapeño and use a milder jerk seasoning blend. Adding a splash of coconut milk or serving the dish with yogurt can also help tone down the spiciness.

Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or even hearty vegetables like eggplant or cauliflower. Ensure you marinate the substitutes well to absorb the rich jerk seasoning flavors.

How can I make the dish saucier?

For a saucier version, you can add a splash of chicken broth or coconut milk during the final step when combining the vegetables and chicken. This will create a slightly creamy consistency and enhance the flavor.

What’s the best way to slice the vegetables?

Slice the vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Aim for medium-thin slices so they retain a bit of crunch after stir-frying.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prep the vegetables a day ahead. Keep them stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Cook the dish fresh for the best flavor and texture.

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