Jerk Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Jerk Chicken Salad is a vibrant, zesty dish that delivers on both flavor and nutrition. The smoky, spicy jerk chicken provides a satisfying protein base, while the fresh salad ingredients add a refreshing balance to the heat. Topped with a tangy dressing, this salad is perfect for a summer meal, a hearty lunch, or a light dinner. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 tbsp jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or lettuce)

• 1 cucumber, sliced

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/2 avocado, sliced

• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

• 2 tbsp olive oil (for dressing)

• 1 tbsp lime juice

• 1 tbsp honey

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat.

2. Rub the chicken breasts with 2 tablespoons of jerk seasoning and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Let them marinate for at least 10-15 minutes.

3. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.

4. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, avocado, and cherry tomatoes.

5. Slice the grilled chicken and add it to the salad.

6. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.

7. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

8. Top the salad with crumbled feta cheese if desired and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 15-20 minutes

• Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Add more vegetables like corn, radishes, or cucumbers to increase the crunch and freshness.

• For a spicier kick, drizzle the salad with hot sauce or add extra jerk seasoning to the chicken.

• Swap the mixed greens for a more substantial base like kale or romaine lettuce.

• For a heartier meal, add grains such as quinoa, couscous, or brown rice.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Keep the dressing separate from the salad to prevent the greens from wilting.

• The chicken can be reheated in the microwave or on a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken as a shortcut, but grilling the chicken adds flavor and helps to lock in the seasoning.

2. What makes jerk chicken different from regular grilled chicken?

Jerk chicken is marinated with a unique blend of spices and seasonings, including allspice, thyme, scotch bonnet peppers, and cinnamon, which gives it its signature smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor.

3. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

4. Is jerk chicken salad spicy?

The level of spice depends on the amount of jerk seasoning you use. If you prefer less heat, you can reduce the amount of seasoning or use a milder variety.

5. Can I grill the chicken on a stovetop instead of a grill?

Yes, you can cook the chicken in a grill pan or a regular skillet on the stovetop if you don’t have access to a grill.

6. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare most of the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the salad and add the dressing just before serving to keep it fresh.

7. What other fruits can I add to the salad?

Mango, pineapple, or papaya would pair wonderfully with jerk chicken, adding sweetness to balance the spice.

8. How can I make the salad gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy it without any modifications.

9. Can I use a different protein?

Yes, you can swap the chicken for shrimp, pork, or even a plant-based protein like tofu for a vegetarian option.

10. Can I make this salad in advance for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients separately and store them in containers. Keep the dressing separate until you are ready to eat to maintain the freshness of the salad.

Conclusion

The Jerk Chicken Salad is a perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and freshness. With its combination of tender grilled chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy dressing, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Whether you’re craving a healthy lunch or a flavorful dinner, this dish provides the ideal mix of bold flavors and nutritious ingredients.

Jerk Chicken Salad

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This Jerk Chicken Salad combines tender grilled chicken marinated in spicy jerk seasoning with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing. It’s a bold, flavorful, and nutritious meal perfect for lunch or dinner.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Yield: 2-4 servings
• Category: Main Course, Salad
• Method: Grilled
• Cuisine: Caribbean

Ingredients

1. 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
   
   2 tbsp jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
   
   1 tbsp olive oil
   
   4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or lettuce)
   
   1 cucumber, sliced
   
   1 red bell pepper, sliced
   
   1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
   
   1/2 avocado, sliced
   
   1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
   
   1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
   
   2 tbsp olive oil (for dressing)
   
   1 tbsp lime juice
   
   1 tbsp honey
   
   Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Preheat the grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat.

1. Rub the chicken breasts with 2 tablespoons of jerk seasoning and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Let them marinate for at least 10-15 minutes.
2. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, avocado, and cherry tomatoes.
4. Slice the grilled chicken and add it to the salad.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
6. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
7. Top the salad with crumbled feta cheese if desired and serve immediately.

Notes

• For a spicier kick, drizzle the salad with hot sauce or add extra jerk seasoning to the chicken.
• Customize with extra vegetables like corn, radishes, or more cucumbers for extra crunch.
• If you want a heartier meal, add grains like quinoa or brown rice.
• For a vegan version, skip the feta cheese and use a plant-based dressing.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 70mg