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Authentic Jerk Chicken Rasta Pasta

Savor Authentic Jerk Chicken Rasta Pasta for Cozy Evenings

Experience the vibrant flavors of Authentic Jerk Chicken Rasta Pasta, a cozy and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 3 hours
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Caribbean
Calories: 675

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 ½ lbs organic chicken breast Substitute with tofu or jackfruit for a vegan option.
  • 1-2 Tbsps Jerk Dry Rub Seasoning Adjust based on your heat tolerance.
For the Pasta
  • 1 (16 oz.) package short-cut pasta Penne or rigatoni works well; choose gluten-free variety if needed.
  • 1 tablespoon Extra virgin olive oil Can substitute with coconut oil.
For the Vegetables
  • 4 cloves garlic minced; garlic powder is a substitute if you're out.
  • 2 medium bell peppers chopped; use any color you prefer.
  • 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme Dry thyme works in a pinch (1 tsp).
  • 1 scotch bonnet pepper minced or whole with a slit; consider using habanero for milder.
For the Sauce
  • 2 Tbsps organic all-purpose flour Cornstarch is a great gluten-free substitution.
  • 1-2 Tbsps Jerk Dry Rub Seasoning Reduce to 2 tsp for milder taste.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Regular paprika can be used instead.
  • Sea salt Adjust according to taste.
  • 1 ½ cups organic heavy cream Coconut cream works for dairy-free.
  • 2 cups organic chicken stock/broth Opt for vegetable stock for vegan.
  • 2 Tbsps white cooking wine Vegetable stock can serve as alternative.
  • 1 cup freshly-grated parmesan cheese Cheddar can be a delightful twist.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by cutting the organic chicken breast into bite-sized chunks and placing them in a bowl. Generously coat the chicken with 1-2 tablespoons of jerk dry rub seasoning, ensuring every piece is well-covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
  2. While the chicken marinates, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the 16 oz. package of short-cut pasta and cook according to the package instructions, aiming for al dente (usually around 6-8 minutes). Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, allowing it to cool slightly.
  3. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through, then remove it from the skillet and set aside to rest.
  4. Using the same skillet, add the chopped bell peppers, minced garlic, and scotch bonnet pepper. Sauté the mixture for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
  5. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of organic all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir until combined. Slowly whisk in 1 ½ cups of organic heavy cream, 2 cups of chicken stock, and 2 tablespoons of white cooking wine. Add smoked paprika and jerk seasoning, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
  6. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, along with the fresh thyme sprigs. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully coated in the creamy sauce.
  7. Finally, stir in 1 cup of freshly-grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently until every piece is well coated with the sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 675kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 38gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 750mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances the flavor significantly; don't rush this step for the best results.

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