Chef Mitchell preparing Creamy Jerk Chicken Pasta
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Creamy Jerk Chicken Pasta while experimenting with different Caribbean spices in my kitchen. The combination of creamy sauce and spicy jerk chicken was an instant hit with my family. After perfecting the recipe over several attempts, it became a staple for dinner parties. I love sharing this dish because it represents a blend of cultures and flavors that I hold dear."

With over a decade of experience in Caribbean cuisine, I have a deep appreciation for bold flavors and fresh ingredients. I've created numerous dinner recipes that highlight the diverse culinary traditions of the Caribbean. My passion lies in making complex flavors accessible to home cooks.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Creamy Jerk Chicken Pasta served on a plate

Why This Creamy Jerk Chicken Pasta Recipe Works

This recipe is special because it captures the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean while being incredibly easy to prepare. The use of jerk seasoning gives the chicken a delicious, spicy kick that is perfectly balanced by the creaminess of the sauce. It's a one-pan meal that requires minimal cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Using fresh ingredients and high-quality pasta ensures that each bite is bursting with flavor. The technique of sautéing the vegetables before adding the chicken brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall dish. The rich cream sauce coats the pasta beautifully, creating a satisfying meal that's sure to please.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, use freshly made jerk seasoning instead of store-bought. This will enhance the flavor profile of the chicken and give it a more authentic taste. Additionally, be cautious with the heat level of the jerk seasoning; adjust it according to your preference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and then combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve. This will ensure the pasta stays firm and the sauce retains its creaminess.

If you prefer a different protein, shrimp or tofu can be excellent substitutes for chicken in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as shrimp cooks faster and tofu should be pressed and marinated for better flavor.

The dish is done when the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F) and the sauce has thickened slightly. The pasta should be al dente and coated evenly with the sauce. A taste test will also help you determine if it's seasoned to your liking.

Yes, you can freeze the pasta and sauce together. However, pasta may become slightly mushy upon thawing. For better texture, freeze the sauce separately and cook fresh pasta when ready to eat.

This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad and some crusty bread for soaking up the sauce. You can also serve it with sautéed vegetables or grilled corn for added flavor and texture.

Stored in an airtight container, Creamy Jerk Chicken Pasta will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving to maintain its creamy texture.

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance for a quicker meal later. Simply cook everything, cool it down, and store in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, just cook the pasta and combine everything.

To reheat, place the pasta on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to maintain its creaminess. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and prevent sticking.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your pasta dish turns out too dry, it may be due to insufficient sauce.

Solution: Add a bit more cream or chicken broth to the pasta to create a creamier consistency. Mixing in some olive oil can also help enhance the moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the chicken isn’t crispy, it may not have been cooked at a high enough temperature.

Solution: To achieve crispiness, ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken and allow it to sear for a few minutes before flipping.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, monitor the chicken closely and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F. Consider marinating the chicken beforehand for added moisture.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: An undercooked chicken will be pink in the center.

Recovery: If this happens, cover and continue cooking on low heat for a few more minutes until fully cooked. Always check with a thermometer for accuracy.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the chicken has a burnt exterior, it may have been cooked at too high a heat.

Prevention: Reduce the heat when cooking to allow the chicken to cook through without burning. If burnt, trim off the charred bits before serving.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a splash of vinegar to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If it's too salty, adding a little sugar or more cream can help to balance the saltiness.

Bland: If the pasta is bland, boost the seasoning with additional jerk seasoning or fresh herbs.

Fresh ingredients for Creamy Jerk Chicken Pasta

Essential Ingredients for Creamy Jerk Chicken Pasta

The key ingredients for this dish include chicken, jerk seasoning, and a rich cream sauce. The jerk seasoning provides a unique blend of spices that give the chicken a flavorful kick. Using fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions enhances the dish's color and taste.

Quality ingredients are crucial to achieving the best flavors. Choose organic chicken and fresh produce whenever possible. The cream should be rich and high-fat for the best texture, and the pasta should be of good quality to hold the sauce well.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs can add extra juiciness to the dish. They tend to stay moister than breasts when cooked, providing a more flavorful experience.
  • Jerk Seasoning: Make your own jerk seasoning for a fresher taste. Combine spices like allspice, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers for a more authentic flavor.
  • Heavy Cream: Opt for heavy cream to create a luscious, velvety sauce. This will ensure the creaminess of the dish without it becoming overly watery.
Cooking process for Creamy Jerk Chicken Pasta

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process begins with prepping your ingredients, ensuring everything is ready to go. Cooking the chicken first allows it to absorb the flavors of the jerk seasoning. After that, the vegetables are sautéed, adding depth to the dish.

Combining the pasta with the sauce ensures that each bite is evenly flavored. The key is to let the sauce simmer enough to thicken before mixing in the pasta, which helps to coat it perfectly.

Key Technique for Perfect Creamy Jerk Chicken Pasta

The most important technique in this recipe is achieving the right balance between cooking the chicken thoroughly and maintaining its juiciness. Searing the chicken at a high temperature before adding the sauce locks in moisture and flavor, resulting in a deliciously creamy pasta dish.

Creamy Jerk Chicken Pasta

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup heavy cream
    For richness
  • 1 cup chicken broth
    For depth
  • 1 tsp paprika
    For color
  • 1 tsp thyme
    For flavor

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 tbsp jerk seasoning
    For seasoning
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
    For cooking
  • 1 bell pepper
    Sliced, for freshness
  • 1 onion
    Chopped, for sweetness
  • 3 cloves garlic
    Minced, for aroma
  • 2 cups pasta
    Penne or fettuccine
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    For creaminess

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Start by cutting the chicken into pieces and seasoning it with jerk seasoning, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

  2. Cook the Pasta

    In a large pot, boil water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  3. Sauté Vegetables

    In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the bell pepper, onion, and garlic, and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.

  4. Cook Chicken

    Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.

  5. Make the Sauce

    Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in the paprika and thyme, and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes.

  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.

  7. Season to Taste

    Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or jerk seasoning if desired.

  8. Serve

    Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Creamy Jerk Chicken Pasta, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Always reheat thoroughly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Creamy Jerk Chicken Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. For an authentic Caribbean touch, consider adding fried plantains or coleslaw.

Recipe Variations

You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. For a spicier kick, include more jerk seasoning or diced Scotch bonnet peppers. Additionally, using different types of protein like shrimp or tofu can make this dish your own.