Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa

Name: Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, skin-on; 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lime, juiced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely adore this Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa! The vibrant blend of spices combined with the sweetness of the pineapple creates an unforgettable dish that's perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. The jerk marinade offers a delightful kick without being overpowering, and the fresh salsa brings everything together beautifully. It’s a dish that not only satisfies the taste buds but also brightens up any table with its colors and flavors.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:06:29.795Z

When I first tried jerk chicken on a trip to Jamaica, I knew I had to recreate the experience at home. I experimented with various spice blends and cooking methods, and after several attempts, I found that marinating the chicken overnight in the jerk seasoning really amplifies the flavors. This restaurant-quality dish is packed with layers of taste that keep me coming back for more!

Adding fresh pineapple salsa not only enhances the dish but also adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken. I recommend using ripe pineapples for the best flavor and combining them with cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeños for an extra zing. It's truly a fusion of heat and sweetness that I just can’t resist!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect harmony of spicy and sweet for a tantalizing taste experience.
Fresh, colorful ingredients that brighten up your plate.
Ideal for grill lovers looking to impress at their next cookout.

      

The Perfect Jerk Marinade

The jerk marinade is the soul of this dish, combining not just heat but also a complex layer of flavors that define Caribbean cuisine. The balance of spices such as allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet pepper creates a vibrant flavor profile that penetrates your chicken. For best results, I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal. This allows the spices to fully infuse and tenderize the meat, ensuring each bite bursts with flavor.

If you're short on time, store-bought jerk seasoning can be used in place of homemade blends. However, be mindful of the salt content in pre-mixed spices; you can reduce the added salt in your marinade accordingly. For a milder version, consider reducing the amount of jerk seasoning or omitting the jalapeño in the salsa to cater to sensitive palates while still achieving that tantalizing jerk essence.

Creating the Pineapple Salsa

Pineapple salsa elevates your jerk chicken with a refreshing counterbalance to its spiciness. The juiciness of fresh pineapple, mixed with the crunch of red onion, creates an inviting texture. For optimal flavors, use ripe pineapple, which should be sweet and aromatic, enhancing the overall dish quality. If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple can work in a pinch—just ensure it’s well-drained to avoid watering down the salsa.

Letting the salsa sit for at least 10 minutes before serving is crucial, as it allows the onions to mellow and the flavors to harmonize beautifully. If you prefer additional heat, leaving some seeds in the jalapeño or adding a dash of hot sauce can enhance the dish without overpowering the chicken. This vibrant salsa can also stand alone as a refreshing dip or a topping on fish tacos.

Grilling Tips for Success

Getting the perfect char on your jerk chicken is essential. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, which translates to approximately 375°F to 400°F. You want a hot surface that will sear and caramelize the marinade, creating a delicious crust. It’s paramount to allow the chicken thighs to cook undisturbed for about 7-8 minutes on each side. Resist the temptation to flip too early, as this can cause the meat to stick and tear.

To check for doneness, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F, which ensures your chicken is cooked through without becoming dry. For visual cues, look for a beautifully golden brown color with slight charring. If you notice flare-ups due to fat drippings, momentarily move the chicken to a cooler part of the grill to avoid burning.

Ingredients

Gather the ingredients for this flavorful dish to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

For the Jerk Chicken

4 chicken thighs, skin-on
2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lime, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pineapple Salsa

1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Salt to taste

Make sure you have everything ready to go before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious jerk chicken dish paired with refreshing salsa.

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the jerk seasoning, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture over the chicken thighs and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight.

Prepare the Pineapple Salsa

In a separate bowl, mix the diced pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Stir to combine and let it sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken thighs for about 7-8 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and slightly charred.

Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve topped with the fresh pineapple salsa, and enjoy your vibrant meal!

Don't forget to serve your jerk chicken warm with the fresh salsa on top!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some chopped mango to the pineapple salsa or marinate the chicken longer for deeper spice absorption.

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you want to save time on a busy weekday, you can marinate the chicken in advance. Just ensure it is well-wrapped in the refrigerator and used within 2 days for the best flavor. The salsa can also be prepped ahead of time; simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Keep in mind that the salsa's freshness is key, so prepare it no more than a few hours before serving to maintain its vibrant taste.

When it comes to reheating your jerk chicken, do so gently in the oven at 350°F to retain moisture. Cover the chicken with foil to prevent it from drying out. If you have leftover salsa, it's best enjoyed within 2 days; after this time, the ingredients may start to lose their crispness and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve your jerk chicken and pineapple salsa alongside coconut rice or quinoa. The creamy coconut flavor complements the heat of the jerk perfectly while providing a satisfying base. You might also consider adding a side of grilled vegetables for extra color and nutrition; bell peppers and zucchini are particularly good choices.

Feel free to get creative with your serving style! You could turn this dish into a fun taco night by shredding the chicken and serving it with soft tortillas, salsa, and assorted toppings like avocado or sour cream. This not only enhances the dining experience but also makes it a fun, interactive meal for friends and family.

Variations and Dietary Swaps

For those looking for a lighter option, you can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may require a shorter cooking time to avoid drying out. A 6-8 minute cooking time on each side should suffice for breasts, checking for that internal temperature of 165°F.

Vegetarian or vegan enthusiasts can also join in on the fun by using firm tofu or portobello mushrooms marinated in the same jerk mixture. Grill them until they have lovely char marks, and serve with the delicious pineapple salsa for an equally vibrant, plant-based dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but be aware that chicken breasts cook faster and may dry out if overcooked.

→ What is jerk seasoning made of?

Jerk seasoning is typically made of allspice, Scotch bonnet peppers, thyme, garlic, ginger, and other spices.

→ How spicy is jerk chicken?

The spice level can vary based on the amount of jerk seasoning used. Adjust to your taste preference.

→ Can I prepare the salsa ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just keep it in the refrigerator for up to a day for the best flavor.