Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into a tropical culinary adventure! This Slightly Jerked Chicken with Pineapple Mango Salsa served over Coconut Quinoa isn't just a meal—it's a vibrant journey through Caribbean flavors that will transport you to a sun-soaked island paradise. With a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and creamy elements, this dish promises to be the star of your dining table, guaranteed to impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Caribbean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 cup pineapple, diced
- 1 mango, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Coconut Quinoa: • Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water • In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa with coconut milk and a pinch of salt • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low • Cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes until liquid is absorbed • Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes • Fluff with a fork and set aside
- Prepare the Pineapple Mango Salsa: • Dice pineapple and mango into small, uniform cubes • Finely chop red onion and fresh cilantro • Combine fruits, onion, and cilantro in a mixing bowl • Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture • Add a pinch of salt • Gently toss and set aside to allow flavors to meld
- Prepare the Chicken: • Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels • Coat evenly with jerk seasoning, ensuring full coverage • Preheat grill or heavy skillet to medium-high heat • Lightly oil cooking surface • Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side • Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) • Let rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking
- Plate and Serve: • Spread coconut quinoa as a base on each plate • Slice chicken breasts diagonally • Place sliced chicken over quinoa • Top generously with pineapple mango salsa • Garnish with extra cilantro if desired • Serve immediately while warm
Tips
- • For maximum flavor infusion, let the jerk-seasoned chicken marinate for 30 minutes before cooking • Use fresh, ripe pineapple and mango for the most intense salsa flavor • Toast the quinoa lightly before adding coconut milk to enhance its nutty profile • Allow chicken to rest after cooking to ensure juicy, tender meat • If you don't have a grill, a cast-iron skillet works perfectly for achieving a beautiful sear • For a spicier kick, add a finely chopped jalapeño to your salsa • Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to safe internal temperature
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 95mg
