Are you ready to spice up your next meal with some delicious jerk chicken? This flavorful Jamaican dish is known for its irresistible combination of spicy heat and smoky sweetness. But what should you serve alongside this mouthwatering chicken? Whether you’re planning a casual get-together or a special dinner, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore a variety of tasty options that will complement the bold flavors of jerk chicken and take your meal to the next level. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests with these delectable side dishes.
Vegetable Side Dishes
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are a fantastic choice to accompany your jerk chicken. Not only are they flavorful, but they also add a vibrant touch to your plate. You can choose a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and onions. Simply slice them into thick pieces, drizzle them with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and grill them until they are tender and slightly charred. The smoky flavors from the grill will complement the bold and spicy flavors of the jerk chicken perfectly.
Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is a classic side dish that pairs exceptionally well with jerk chicken. The natural sweetness of the corn kernels provides a nice contrast to the spiciness of the chicken. You can grill the corn or boil it until it’s tender. Once cooked, you can brush it with melted butter and sprinkle it with chili powder or Parmesan cheese for an extra kick of flavor. Corn on the cob is not only delicious, but it also adds a beautiful pop of color to your plate.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a refreshing and crunchy side dish that complements the bold flavors of jerk chicken. The combination of shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. To make coleslaw, you can start by thinly slicing the cabbage and carrots. Then, mix them together in a bowl and toss them with a dressing made from mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and some salt and black pepper. The result is a creamy and tangy coleslaw that adds a refreshing element to your meal.
Traditional Jamaican Accompaniments
Rice and Peas
No Jamaican meal is complete without rice and peas. This traditional dish is made with fragrant rice, kidney beans, coconut milk, and a blend of flavorful spices. The combination of rice and peas adds a rich and creamy element to your plate, complementing the spicy flavors of jerk chicken. To make rice and peas, you can start by cooking the rice and beans with coconut milk and herbs such as thyme and scallions. The result is a flavorful and aromatic side dish that perfectly complements your jerk chicken.
Fried Plantains
Fried plantains are a staple in Jamaican cuisine and make a delightful accompaniment to jerk chicken. These sweet and savory treats are made from ripe plantains that are sliced and fried until they become golden and caramelized. The natural sweetness of the plantains pairs wonderfully with the spicy and bold flavors of the jerk chicken. You can serve fried plantains as a side dish or even as a snack. They add a unique and delicious touch to your meal.
Jamaican Hard Dough Bread
Jamaican Hard Dough Bread is a dense and slightly sweet bread that is commonly enjoyed alongside jerk chicken. Its firm texture makes it perfect for sopping up the flavorful juices from the chicken. This bread is made with simple ingredients like flour, sugar, yeast, and butter, resulting in a soft, yet sturdy loaf. Whether you use it to make a sandwich or simply enjoy it on its own, Jamaican Hard Dough Bread is a must-have when serving jerk chicken.
Caribbean-inspired Salads
Mango and Avocado Salad
A mango and avocado salad is a refreshing and tropical side dish that pairs beautifully with jerk chicken. The combination of sweet and juicy mangoes, creamy avocados, and tangy lime dressing creates a burst of flavors that complements the spiciness of the chicken. You can add some red onion, cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili powder to enhance the flavors even further. This salad not only adds a splash of vibrant colors to your plate but also provides a refreshing and cooling element to balance out the heat.
Pineapple Salsa
Pineapple salsa is a delightful and tangy side dish that adds a burst of tropical flavors to your jerk chicken. The sweetness of the pineapple combines with the heat of jalapenos and the freshness of cilantro to create a salsa that is both sweet and fiery. You can chop the pineapple into small pieces and mix it with red onion, jalapenos, lime juice, and cilantro. This vibrant and zesty salsa adds a refreshing twist to your meal, enhancing the flavors of the jerk chicken.
Jicama Slaw
Jicama slaw is a light and crunchy side dish that offers a refreshing contrast to the bold flavors of jerk chicken. Jicama is a root vegetable with a crisp texture and a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. To make a jicama slaw, you can julienne the jicama and mix it with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing made from lime juice, honey, and cilantro. This slaw adds a refreshing and crisp element to your plate, making it a perfect accompaniment to jerk chicken.
Starch-based Dishes
Sweet Potato Mash
Sweet potato mash is a delicious and nutritious side dish that complements the flavors of jerk chicken. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs well with the spicy and bold flavors of the chicken. You can boil or roast the sweet potatoes until they are tender and then mash them with some butter, a splash of milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The result is a creamy and flavorful side dish that adds a comforting touch to your meal.
Jamaican Festival
Jamaican Festival is a popular side dish in Jamaica that is similar to a cornmeal fritter. These golden and crispy treats are made from a simple batter of cornmeal, flour, sugar, and spices, which are then deep-fried to perfection. Festival is often enjoyed alongside jerk chicken as it offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The slightly sweet and crispy exterior pairs well with the spicy and tender chicken, creating a harmonious combination. Whether you serve them as a side or a snack, Jamaican Festival is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Yam and Dumplings
Yam and dumplings are traditional Jamaican side dishes that are commonly served with jerk chicken. Yam is a starchy root vegetable that has a mild and slightly sweet taste, similar to a potato, while dumplings are dense and doughy balls made from flour, salt, and water. These hearty and satisfying additions to your plate help to balance and soak up the flavors of the jerk chicken, creating a truly satisfying and wholesome meal.
Sauces and Condiments
Mango Chutney
Mango chutney is a popular condiment in Caribbean cuisine and makes a fantastic addition to jerk chicken. The sweet and tangy flavors of the mangoes, combined with spices like ginger, garlic, and chili, create a chutney that enhances the flavors of the chicken. Whether you use it as a topping or a dipping sauce, mango chutney adds a burst of exotic flavors that take your meal to a whole new level.
Pineapple Salsa
Pineapple salsa not only makes a delicious side dish, but it also doubles as a flavorful condiment for jerk chicken. The tropical sweetness of the pineapple complements the fiery flavors of the chicken, creating a harmonious combination. Whether you spoon it over your chicken or use it as a dip, pineapple salsa adds a vibrant and tangy touch to your meal.
Hot Pepper Sauce
If you enjoy a little extra heat and spice, hot pepper sauce is a must when serving jerk chicken. There are various types of hot pepper sauces available, ranging from mild to extremely hot, so you can choose one that suits your taste preference. Adding a few drops of hot pepper sauce to your jerk chicken not only enhances the flavors but also adds a fiery kick that takes the dish to a whole new level. Just be cautious and use it sparingly if you’re not accustomed to spicy foods.
Refreshing Beverages
Tropical Fruit Punch
A refreshing tropical fruit punch is the perfect beverage to accompany your jerk chicken meal. This vibrant and fruity drink combines a variety of tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, and passion fruit. You can blend the fruits with some orange juice, lime juice, and a touch of honey for sweetness. Serve it over ice and garnish with fresh fruit slices for a truly refreshing and tropical experience.
Jamaican Ginger Beer
Jamaican ginger beer is a non-alcoholic beverage that is both refreshing and invigorating. Made with fresh ginger, sugar, water, and lime juice, this fizzy drink brings a burst of spicy and tangy flavors to your palate. The subtle heat from the ginger pairs well with the bold and flavorful jerk chicken, creating a unique and satisfying combination. Enjoy it chilled for a refreshing beverage that complements your meal.
Coconut Water
Coconut water is a classic Caribbean beverage that is both hydrating and refreshing. Served straight from a fresh coconut, it offers a subtle sweetness and a hint of tropical flavor. Coconut water is a perfect choice to pair with jerk chicken as it helps to cool down the palate and balance out the spiciness. Its natural electrolytes make it a healthy and nourishing beverage option, especially on a warm day.
International Inspired Sides
Caribbean Fried Rice
Caribbean fried rice is a flavorful and aromatic side dish that adds a touch of exoticism to your jerk chicken meal. This dish is made by stir-frying rice with a variety of vegetables and spices such as garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and scallions. You can also add some diced chicken or shrimp for extra protein. The result is a delicious and colorful dish that offers a wonderful fusion of Caribbean and Asian flavors.
Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple is a simple yet delicious side dish that adds a burst of sweetness to your jerk chicken. The heat from the grill caramelizes the sugars in the pineapple, creating a smoky and caramelized exterior with a juicy and tender interior. The natural sweetness of the pineapple pairs well with the spiciness of the chicken, creating a delightful contrast of flavors. Serve it as a side or even as a topping for your jerk chicken for a tropical twist.
Cuban Black Beans
Cuban black beans are a flavorful and hearty side dish that complements the bold flavors of jerk chicken. These beans are cooked with onions, garlic, bell peppers, and a blend of aromatic spices such as cumin, oregano, and bay leaves. The result is a rich and velvety black bean stew that adds a satisfying and protein-rich element to your plate. Serve it alongside your jerk chicken and enjoy the tasty combination of flavors.
Bread and Buns
Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with jerk chicken. The slightly sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread provides a delightful contrast to the spicy flavors of the chicken. You can make cornbread from scratch using cornmeal, flour, sugar, eggs, and buttermilk. Whether you enjoy it plain or with a pat of butter, cornbread adds a comforting and homely touch to your meal.
Hamburger Buns
Hamburger buns are a versatile and convenient option to serve with jerk chicken. They offer a soft and fluffy base for your chicken, making it easy to build your perfect jerk chicken sandwich. Choose buns that are sturdy enough to hold the juicy chicken and condiments without becoming soggy. Whether you toast them or enjoy them as they are, hamburger buns provide a familiar and satisfying option to accompany your jerk chicken.
Johnny Cakes
Johnny cakes are a traditional Caribbean side dish that adds a unique and delicious touch to your jerk chicken meal. These fried cornmeal cakes have a slightly crispy exterior and a soft and fluffy interior. They are made from a simple batter of cornmeal, flour, sugar, and butter, which is then deep-fried until golden and puffy. The result is a delightful and flavorful side dish that adds a tasty twist to your plate.
Dips and Spreads
Garlic Aioli
Garlic aioli is a creamy and flavorful condiment that pairs exceptionally well with jerk chicken. Made from a combination of garlic, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and olive oil, garlic aioli adds a tangy and garlicky element to your meal. Whether you use it as a dipping sauce for your chicken or as a spread for your bread, garlic aioli enhances the flavors of the jerk chicken and adds a creamy texture to your plate.
Mango Salsa
Mango salsa not only makes a delicious side dish but also doubles as a flavorful dip for jerk chicken. The sweet and tangy flavors of the mangoes combined with the heat of jalapenos and the freshness of cilantro create a salsa that perfectly complements the spicy flavors of the chicken. Chop the mango into small pieces and mix it with red onion, jalapenos, lime juice, and cilantro. Use it as a topping for your chicken or as a dip for your chips, adding a burst of tropical flavors to your meal.
Plantain Dip
Plantain dip is a unique and tasty condiment that adds a Caribbean twist to your jerk chicken. Made from ripe plantains, garlic, lime juice, and spices, this creamy dip offers a sweet and savory combination that pairs well with the jerk chicken. Simply mash the plantains and mix them with the other ingredients to create a smooth and flavorful dip. Whether you use it as a dipping sauce or as a spread, plantain dip adds a delightful touch to your meal.
Desserts
Rum Cake
Rum cake is a rich and moist dessert that is popular in the Caribbean. This decadent cake is made with a rum-infused batter, which gives it a unique and boozy flavor. Whether you make it from scratch or purchase it from a bakery, rum cake is a delightful way to end your jerk chicken meal. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of coconut ice cream for a truly indulgent experience.
Coconut Ice Cream
Coconut ice cream is a creamy and tropical dessert that pairs beautifully with jerk chicken. The rich and silky texture of the ice cream, combined with the refreshing flavors of coconut, make it a perfect choice to balance out the spiciness of the chicken. Whether you make it from scratch or purchase it from a store, coconut ice cream is a refreshing and delicious way to end your meal on a sweet note.
Tropical Fruit Salad
A tropical fruit salad is a light and refreshing dessert that adds a burst of freshness to your jerk chicken meal. Mix together a variety of colorful fruits such as pineapple, mango, papaya, and kiwi for a vibrant and flavorful salad. You can even add a sprinkle of shredded coconut or a squeeze of lime juice for an extra tropical twist. This simple and healthy dessert provides a refreshing and satisfying end to your meal.
