Festival Classic Lunch – Grilled Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa

Festival Classic Lunch – Grilled Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa

Find the best Festival Classic Lunch recipes with our Caribbean jerk chicken and pineapple salsa dish that brings the energy of a Caribbean festival to your table. Copycat recipe inspired by famous street food favorites.

πŸ•’ Prep 10 min / Cook 12 min / Total 22 min
🍽 Servings: 2
πŸ”₯ Difficulty: Advanced
🌎 Cuisine: Caribbean

Allergens

None

Ingredients

  • 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
  • 1/4 cup jerk seasoning (store bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 pineapple, peeled and chopped
  • 1 red onion, diced
  • 1 jalapeno, seeded and finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the jerk seasoning with oil to form a paste. Rub the chicken breasts evenly with this mixture, making sure to coat all sides. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight.
  2. Preheat your grill to medium high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6 minutes per side or until fully cooked. Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine pineapple, onion, jalapeno, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let sit for 15 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  4. Slice the rested chicken and serve with the freshly prepared pineapple salsa on top.

Chef’s Insight

The key to a great jerk chicken is the marination time, so don't rush it! Give it at least 2 hours for maximum flavor.

Notes

This recipe is a perfect copycat of the famous Caribbean jerk chicken found at many street-food stalls and festivals. Enjoy!

Cultural or Historical Background

Jerk seasoning originated in Jamaica, where meat is traditionally rubbed with a blend of spices and left to marinate before being cooked over an open flame. This dish brings that Caribbean spirit into your home kitchen.