Are you ready to take your taste buds on a flavorful journey to the Caribbean without leaving your kitchen? This Easy Trader Joe's Meals Jerk Chicken recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience bursting with vibrant spices and mouthwatering aromas. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a delicious dinner that will impress your family and friends. Get ready to savor the perfect balance of heat and zest, all while enjoying the delightful ease of cooking with Trader Joe's. Dive into this recipe and discover why your dinner table will never be the same again!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Caribbean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 lime, for serving
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, 2 tablespoons of jerk seasoning, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 cup of jasmine rice, 2 cups of water, and 1 lime for serving.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and gets a nice crispy skin.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken thighs with the jerk seasoning and olive oil. Make sure the chicken is well coated with the seasoning. You can use your hands or a spoon for this step.
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Carefully flip the chicken thighs over and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
- While the chicken is baking, rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed jasmine rice and 2 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice has absorbed all the water and is tender.
- After the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- Fluff the cooked jasmine rice with a fork and serve it alongside the jerk chicken. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the chicken for an added burst of flavor.
- Enjoy your Easy Trader Joe's Meals Jerk Chicken with jasmine rice!
Tips
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have a little extra time, consider marinating the chicken thighs with the jerk seasoning and olive oil for a few hours or overnight. This will enhance the flavors and make the chicken even more delicious.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This guarantees juicy and safe-to-eat chicken every time.
- Customize the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, adjust the amount of jerk seasoning to suit your taste. Alternatively, if you like it spicy, feel free to add more!
- Perfectly Cooked Rice: Rinsing the jasmine rice is key to achieving fluffy, non-sticky rice. Make sure to rinse until the water runs clear for the best results.
- Serve with Fresh Lime: A squeeze of fresh lime juice over the finished dish adds a refreshing zing that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the jerk chicken.
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, use them to create a delicious jerk chicken salad or wrap for lunch the next day. The flavors intensify, making it even more delightful!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 522kcal
Carbohydrates: 37g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 80mg
