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 the joy of Creamy Jerk Chicken Pasta during a trip to Jamaica. The blend of spices and creaminess captured my heart, and I worked tirelessly to perfect this recipe since then. It reflects my love for Caribbean flavors and my passion for making comforting dishes. Now, I’m excited to share this culinary adventure with you!"

As a chef with over a decade of experience specializing in Caribbean cuisine, I have a deep understanding of its vibrant flavors and techniques. I've created numerous recipes that celebrate the boldness of island ingredients. Dinner recipes are my passion, and I love to bring a piece of the Caribbean to every table.

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

Why This Creamy Jerk Chicken Pasta Recipe Works

This recipe stands out due to its unique combination of jerk seasoning and creamy sauce, creating a flavor profile that excites the palate. The tender chicken melds perfectly with the pasta, offering a satisfying and hearty dish. It's a fusion of Caribbean and Italian cuisine that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table.

The technique of cooking the chicken first ensures maximum flavor infusion from the jerk seasoning. By adding the cream at the right time, we achieve a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. The key is balancing the heat of the jerk with the richness of the cream, resulting in a delightful experience in every bite.

💡 Professional Tip

For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in jerk seasoning for a few hours before cooking. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat more deeply. Additionally, using high-quality parmesan cheese can elevate the creaminess and flavor of the sauce, making it even more irresistible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the components of this dish ahead of time. Cook the chicken and veggies, and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply heat them up, prepare the sauce, and combine everything with the pasta. This makes it a great option for meal prep!

If you don't have jerk seasoning, you can create a blend using spices like allspice, thyme, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Alternatively, store-bought Cajun or barbecue seasoning can work as a substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly.

The pasta should be cooked until al dente, meaning it has a slight bite to it. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it's safe to eat. The sauce should be thickened and creamy, coating the pasta well.

Yes, you can freeze Creamy Jerk Chicken Pasta. However, the cream sauce may separate upon thawing. It's best to reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring it back together. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the creamy sauce. A chilled glass of white wine or a fruity cocktail will complement the flavors perfectly.

When stored properly in an airtight container, Creamy Jerk Chicken Pasta can last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Make sure to cool it down before refrigerating to ensure freshness. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, storing them separately. Just cook the pasta fresh when you're ready to serve, then combine everything. This is a great way to save time on busy days while still enjoying a homemade meal.

The best way to reheat this pasta is on the stovetop over low heat. Add a small splash of milk or cream to help restore the creamy consistency. Stir frequently until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it, as this can dry out the pasta.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The pasta may become too dry after cooking.

Solution: Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to the pasta while reheating. This will help restore moisture and creaminess.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The chicken may not have a crispy exterior.

Solution: To achieve a crispy texture, ensure that the chicken is not overcrowded in the pan. Cook in batches if necessary, and ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: The pasta may become mushy if overcooked.

Prevention: To prevent this, always set a timer and taste the pasta a minute before the package instructions indicate. If overcooked, you can try to salvage it by adding fresh vegetables or a dollop of cream.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: The chicken may have an undercooked center.

Recovery: Always ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy, and if undercooked, return it to the heat until fully cooked.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The chicken may burn while cooking.

Prevention: Adjust the heat to medium and monitor closely while cooking. Avoid using too much oil, as this can cause splattering and burning.

✅

Flavor Balance

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

Too Salty: If too salty, add a small amount of sugar or honey to counteract the saltiness.

Bland: If the dish lacks flavor, increase the amount of jerk seasoning and add fresh herbs for a flavor boost.

Fresh ingredients for Creamy Jerk Chicken Pasta

Essential Ingredients for Creamy Jerk Chicken Pasta

The key ingredients for this recipe include chicken, pasta, and jerk seasoning, which is the star of the dish. The jerk seasoning brings heat and depth, while the heavy cream balances it with rich creaminess. Fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions add flavor and texture, making this a complete meal.

When selecting ingredients, always choose high-quality chicken and fresh vegetables for the best results. Opt for a premium jerk seasoning blend to ensure authentic flavor, and don't skip on the parmesan cheese—it adds a delicious creaminess to the sauce.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Using bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces will provide more flavor and moisture to the dish. If you prefer a healthier option, skinless chicken breast works well too. Just ensure it's cooked properly to avoid dryness.
  • Jerk Seasoning: Jerk seasoning is a blend of spices that can vary in heat levels. Taste your seasoning before using it and adjust the quantity according to your heat preference to achieve the desired flavor balance.
  • Heavy Cream: Using full-fat heavy cream will give you the richest sauce. If you want a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or coconut cream for a different flavor profile.
Cooking process for Creamy Jerk Chicken Pasta

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Creamy Jerk Chicken Pasta is straightforward and beginner-friendly. Start by cooking the pasta and chicken separately to ensure each component is cooked to perfection. The key is to bring all the flavors together in the final steps, creating a cohesive dish.

For the best results, pay attention to the timing when cooking the chicken and adding the cream. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully without overcooking any ingredient, resulting in a satisfying and delicious pasta dish.

Key Technique for Perfect Creamy Jerk Chicken Pasta

The most crucial technique is to ensure that the chicken is seared properly before adding the sauce. This not only locks in the juices but also caramelizes the spices, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. Additionally, adding the cream slowly while stirring helps achieve that desired creamy consistency.

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
    Rich and thick
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
    Low sodium recommended
  • 1 cup parmesan cheese
    Freshly grated
  • Salt and pepper
    To taste

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 12 oz penne pasta
    Or fettuccine
  • 1/2 cup jerk seasoning
    Adjust to taste
  • 1 medium onion
    Chopped
  • 1 cup bell peppers
    Sliced (any color)
  • 3 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger
    Grated
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro
    Chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
    Freshly squeezed

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta

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

  2. Sauté Chicken

    In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and season with jerk seasoning. Cook until golden brown and cooked through.

  3. Add Vegetables

    Add chopped onions, bell peppers, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Sauté until vegetables are soft.

  4. Create the Sauce

    Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in heavy cream and let it cook for about 5 minutes.

  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Stir in grated parmesan cheese.

  6. Season and Garnish

    Season with salt, pepper, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Mix well.

  7. Serve

    Serve the creamy jerk chicken pasta hot, garnished with additional cilantro and red pepper flakes.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Creamy Jerk Chicken Pasta, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a bit of cream or broth to restore its creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

For serving, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley on top for added color. This dish pairs nicely with garlic bread or a light salad to balance the richness of the pasta.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding more vegetables such as spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. You can also substitute shrimp or tofu for chicken for a pescatarian or vegetarian option.