Smoky Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice

Allergens

Soy, Wheat (if using soy sauce with wheat)

Ingredients

• 6 bone
• in chicken thighs
• 1 cup fresh pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons allspice
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• Salt, to taste
• Mango salsa (recipe follows)
• Coconut rice (recipe follows) Mango Salsa:
• 2 ripe mangos, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeds removed and finely chopped
• Juice of 2 limes
• Salt, to taste Coconut Rice:
• 1 cup long grain white rice
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon butter or oil

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, allspice, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, black pepper, nutmeg, and ground cloves. Mix well to create the jerk marinade.
2. Season chicken thighs with salt to taste. Add chicken to the jerk marinade, turning to coat each piece evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium high heat (about 450°F). Grill chicken for about 6 8 minutes per side or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Set aside to rest.
4. While the chicken is grilling, prepare mango salsa by combining diced mangos, red onion, jalapeño pepper, lime juice, and salt in a bowl. Mix well and set aside.
5. To make coconut rice, combine rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and butter or oil in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender. Fluff with a fork.
6. Serve jerk chicken with mango salsa and coconut rice.

Chef’s Insight

Adding pineapple juice to the jerk marinade creates a caramelized sweetness when grilled, taking the dish to new heights.

Notes

For a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper to taste.