Jamaican Pineapple Jerk Chicken Bake – Sweet, Spicy, and Oven-Baked Perfection

Introduction

Jerk chicken holds a special place in Jamaican cuisine, celebrated for its bold, smoky, and spicy flavors. Born from the island’s rich culinary traditions, this dish captures the essence of the Caribbean—warm, vibrant, and unapologetically flavorful. While classic jerk chicken is often grilled over open flames, we’re adding a sweet twist with pineapple and baking it for a simple yet satisfying kitchen experience. This Jamaican Pineapple Jerk Chicken Bake is a harmony of sweet, spicy, and savory tastes that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.

What’s in store? A wholesome combination of tender chicken, caramelized pineapple, and zesty jerk seasonings—all oven-baked to perfection—and a dish that’s as nutritious as it is downright delicious.

Ingredients

To bring this pineapple jerk chicken recipe to life, you’ll need the following ingredients. Each item plays a vital role in balancing the spice, tang, and sweetness.

• 4 chicken thighs or breasts (bone-in or boneless, depending on preference)
• 1 ½ cups fresh or canned pineapple, diced
• 3 tbsp Jamaican jerk seasoning
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium onion, finely sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

These everyday ingredients create a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that truly delivers on the promise of jerk chicken and pineapple perfection!

Equipment Needed

Before we get started, gather the following tools to ensure smooth preparation and cooking:

• Baking dish (9×13 works well)
• A mixing bowl for marinades
• Knife and cutting board for chopping fruits and vegetables

With these essentials in hand, you’re ready to create a bit of Jamaican magic in your kitchen.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your oven-baked jerk chicken like a pro.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Marinate

Place the chicken thighs or breasts into a bowl. Rub them with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and 2 tablespoons of the jerk seasoning, making sure they’re evenly coated. Cover and leave to marinate for at least 30 minutes—overnight is even better for deeper flavor!

Step 2: Chop Pineapple and Vegetables

While the chicken marinates, prep your vegetables and pineapple. Slice the bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Dice the pineapple into small chunks, ensuring they’re bite-sized for easy eating and even cooking in the dish.

Step 3: Assemble in the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Layer the baking dish with the sliced onions and bell peppers. Arrange the marinated chicken on top, then scatter pineapple chunks evenly around the chicken. Sprinkle the remaining tablespoon of jerk seasoning across the dish for an added kick.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Juicy

Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The pineapple will caramelize, and the peppers will soften perfectly. Keep an eye on the dish during the last 10 minutes to ensure the chicken turns golden without overcooking.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately and savor the tropical zing of jerk chicken with pineapple!

Tips & Variations

• Pineapple Swap: Fresh pineapple works best, but canned pineapple (in juice, not syrup) is an excellent substitute for convenience.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by increasing or reducing the amount of jerk seasoning. Add chili flakes for an extra fiery touch!
• Vegan Option: Replace the chicken with firm tofu or jackfruit for a plant-based twist on this jerk chicken bake recipe.

Serving Suggestions

This delicious baked dish is best paired with classic Jamaican side dishes for a well-rounded meal.

• Serve with rice and peas, a quintessential sidekick to Jamaican jerk chicken with pineapple.
• Upgrade your spread with roasted plantains or fried dumplings.
• Add a refreshing touch with a tropical salad, featuring mango or papaya alongside your jerk chicken pineapple bowl.

This recipe is also fantastic for meal prep! Simply portion into containers for flavorful weekday lunches that heat up beautifully.

Storage & Reheating

Leftovers? No problem—this dish stores well.

• Storage: Cool to room temperature before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Use the oven or microwave for best results. If using the oven, cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes! Boneless chicken cooks faster, so reduce bake time by 5–10 minutes. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer.

What’s the best jerk seasoning brand?

Walkerswood and Grace are excellent Jamaican jerk seasoning brands, offering authentic flavor. You can also create your own blend using spices like allspice, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake fresh when ready to serve.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition per serving (serves 4):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 18g

Conclusion

Spice, sweetness, and simplicity meet in this Jamaican Pineapple Jerk Chicken Bake. The marriage of bold jerk flavors and juicy pineapple creates a dish that’s both comforting and vibrant. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Try it today, and don’t forget to leave a comment or share your experience. We can’t wait to hear how you make this your own!

Recipe Card

Jamaican Pineapple Jerk Chicken Bake

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 ½ cups pineapple, diced
• 3 tbsp jerk seasoning
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Marinate chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, and jerk seasoning.
2. Layer baking dish with onion and peppers. Place chicken on top and scatter pineapple.
3. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
4. Garnish, serve, and enjoy!

Taste Jamaican-inspired perfection in every bite. Happy cooking!