Jerk Chicken rasta pasta

Escape to the Caribbean with my easy Jerk Chicken rasta pasta! Spicy chicken, creamy sauce, and colorful peppers - a taste of sunshine in every bite! Get the recipe now.

Alright, let's dive into the sunshine with this rasta pasta recipe! ever find yourself craving a taste of the islands? honestly, who doesn't? this vibrant dish will transport you straight to the caribbean, no passport required.

A Taste of the Islands: What's Rasta Pasta all about?

Rasta pasta is a celebration of jamaican cuisine . it is often said that it's a fusion of jamaican flavors and italian comfort.

This jamaican recipe combines creamy, spicy, and seriously delicious elements. think jerk seasoning, colorful bell peppers, and perfectly cooked pasta.

It's a fairly easy pasta dinner too, if i can do it, anyone can!

This recipe is beginner-friendly to medium difficulty. It takes about 45 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields about 4 servings. Perfect for a family dinner or a get-together with friends.

Why You'll Love This Jamaican Recipe

This jerk shrimp rasta pasta is not just about the flavor. though honestly, that's a huge part of it. it's packed with bell peppers, a good source of vitamin c and antioxidants.

It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. it also offers a fantastic way to explore jamaican food without booking a flight. serve it at your next bbq or potluck and watch it disappear.

Seriously, people go mad for it. this version is special because the fresh parsley adds an amazing herbal finish to the sauce.

Time to gather our ingredients and start cooking!

Alright, let's dive into what you need to nail this rasta pasta recipe. trust me, it’s easier than finding a decent parking spot in london on a saturday.

Plus, we'll talk swaps, substitutions and everything else, 'cause let's face it, sometimes you're just short on time or ingredients.

We want that delicious jamaican recipe .

Ingredients & Equipment: Getting Started

Let’s break down what you'll need to bring this Jamaican Cuisine into your kitchen. Don’t worry if you don't have everything – we can work around it.

Main Ingredients: The Flavour Base

Okay, picture this: tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers and a creamy, spicy sauce all twirling around perfectly cooked pasta. Sounds dreamy, right?

• Chicken: 1.5 lbs (680g) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Cubed into bite-sized pieces. Look for chicken that's pink and plump, not pale and sad.
• Penne Pasta: 1 lb (454g) . Honestly, any pasta shape works, but penne catches the sauce best.
• Bell Peppers: One each of red, yellow and orange. Slice them thinly. Bright colours mean they're ripe and sweet.
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup (240ml) . Full fat for maximum richness, of course.
• Chicken Broth: 1 cup (240ml) . Low sodium is always a good shout, then you can control the salt.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup (120ml) , grated. Freshly grated is always better.
• Jerk Seasoning: 2 tbsp . Store-bought is fine. Or make your own!

Seasoning Notes: Spice it Up!

This is where the magic happens. It's all about that Jerk Shrimp flavor, and that Jamaican Food kick.

• Essential Spice Combo: Jerk seasoning is the star, but don't be afraid to add a little extra garlic powder and smoked paprika for depth.
• Flavor Enhancers & Aromatics: Fresh garlic. No need to get fancy.
• Quick Substitution Option: If you don’t have jerk seasoning, a mix of allspice, thyme, scotch bonnet pepper (VERY CAREFULLY!), and cinnamon will get you close. Though you will need to adjust those spices.

Honestly? i once tried to make this with a dodgy jerk paste i got from a market. it was way too salty.

Learned my lesson – taste your seasoning before you commit! if you taste that jerk seasoning, this will be a delightful rasta pasta jamaican .

Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple

You don’t need fancy gadgets to make rasta pasta .

• Essential Tools: A big pot for pasta, a large skillet for the sauce and chicken.
• Household Alternatives: If you don’t have a skillet, a large frying pan works just as well. Got no measuring cups? Eyeball it! You know? No one is gonna be measuring your food when they eat, so as long as you get close enough.

You want a quick and Easy Pasta Dinner and the first step is easy Equipment!

So there you have it. Get your bits and bobs together, and let’s get cooking. Trust me, you'll be transported to the islands.

Jerk Chicken Rasta Pasta: Island Vibes on Your Plate!

You know, i've always been a bit intimidated by jamaican cuisine . not that i don't love the flavours, just thought it was way out of my league! but rasta pasta ? it seemed doable.

And honestly? it totally is! this version, with jerk chicken, is pure sunshine on a plate. we're talking tender chicken, vibrant peppers, and a creamy sauce with a kick.

Prep Like a Boss: The Mise en Place Lowdown

Okay, first things first: get your act together. that's the essential mise en place ! chop those red, yellow, and orange bell peppers .

Mince some garlic. get your jerk seasoning ready. cube the chicken. this'll save you a headache later. trust me ! you might want to find 680g of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes.

Safety Note: when working with chicken, always remember to wash your hands! Don't want to be poorly, do we?

From Pan to Plate: The Rasta Pasta Recipe

1. Spice Up the Chicken: Toss 680g cubed chicken with 2 tbsp jerk seasoning , 1 tbsp olive oil , 1 tsp smoked paprika , 1/2 tsp garlic powder , plus salt and pepper. Get it coated real good.
2. Boil the Pasta : Get some penne in boiling salted water until al dente. We like to use about 454g for this.
3. Sauté the Chicken: Heat oil in a pan. Cook chicken until browned and internal temp is 165° F/ 74° C , about 5- 7 minutes . Nobody wants raw chicken!
4. Veggie Power: In the same pan, sauté the sliced bell peppers and minced garlic. About 5- 7 minutes until tender-crisp.
5. Creamy Dreams: Pour in 1 cup chicken broth and 1 cup heavy cream . Simmer, then stir in 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese . Salt and pepper to taste. Scotch bonnet carefully !
6. Pasta Party: Add the pasta and chicken to the sauce. Toss it all together. Use pasta water if the sauce needs loosening.
7. Garnish and Grub: Sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately!

Pro Tips for Perfect Rasta Pasta

• Spice Level: Start small with the jerk seasoning. You can always add more, but you can't take it away! Honestly, some jerk seasoning can pack a punch.
• Pasta Police: Al dente is key. Nobody likes mushy pasta.
• Want a really Jamaican recipe ? A dash of allspice in the sauce takes things up a notch.

So there you have it! my take on rasta pasta, jamaican style. it's an easy pasta dinner that brings those jamaican food vibes right to your kitchen.

This version includes the jerk shrimp , giving it that real flair! don't be afraid to experiment, that's what cooking is all about! enjoy and try this rasta pasta recipe .

Right, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of making your rasta pasta sing . i'm talking about those little touches that'll take it from "meh" to "omg, where's the recipe?".

This isn't just a jamaican recipe , it's an experience!

Recipe Notes: Elevate Your Rasta Pasta Jamaican Style

Serving Suggestions: Plate It Like a Pro

Okay, so you've nailed the Jerk Shrimp and the creamy sauce. But how do you make it look as good as it tastes?

First things first, presentation matters! don't just chuck it in a bowl. twirl that rasta pasta artfully onto a plate.

A sprinkle of extra fresh parsley always adds a pop of colour. seriously, presentation is key to the jamaican cuisine .

Want to be extra fancy? serve it with grilled pineapple slices for a sweet contrast to the spicy jamaican food .

A side of coconut rice and peas is always a winner. trust me, it works! as for drinks, a cool glass of pineapple juice or even a red stripe beer is the perfect pairing.

You know, keep it island-themed!

Storage Tips: Making It Last (If It Does!)

Honestly? Rasta Pasta rarely lasts in my house, it's too good. But, if you're lucky enough to have leftovers, here's the lowdown.

Fridge is your friend. store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. reheating? microwave works fine. add a splash of milk or cream to keep it moist.

Freezing? not the best option, honestly. the sauce can get a bit wonky. but if you must , use a freezer-safe container.

Reheat low and slow.

Variations: Your Rasta, Your Rules

Want to mix things up? Go veggie! Swap the Jerk Shrimp for grilled halloumi or some roasted chickpeas. It’s a super Easy Pasta Dinner with no compromises. Boom!

Want it dairy-free? Use coconut milk instead of cream. It gives it a lovely sweetness!

Seasonal swap? In the summer, add grilled corn. In the winter, butternut squash. You know, get creative!

Nutrition Basics: Feel-Good Food

Okay, let's be real. This isn't exactly health food. But it is soul food!

Rasta pasta recipe : it's got protein from the chicken and carbs from the pasta. it is rich in vitamins from all those colourful peppers.

Watch out for the sodium content though. jerk seasoning can be salty.

Key benefit? It makes you happy! Seriously, life's too short for boring food. The Jamaican Dishes have that vibe.

Right, there you have it. My two cents on making your rasta pasta amazing. Now go forth and cook! Remember to relax, have fun, and taste as you go. You got this!

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is Rasta Pasta, and is it really that spicy?

Rasta Pasta is a vibrant Caribbean-inspired pasta dish known for its creamy sauce, jerk seasoning, and colorful bell peppers. The spice level depends entirely on the jerk seasoning you use and whether you add any Scotch bonnet peppers! Start small and taste as you go – remember, you can always add more spice, but you can't take it away. It's all about finding that "irie" balance!

Can I make Rasta Pasta vegetarian or vegan? I'm not much of a carnivore.

Absolutely, you can easily make a vegetarian or vegan version of Rasta Pasta! For vegetarian, simply swap the chicken for a protein like chickpeas, black beans, or even halloumi cheese for a salty kick. For vegan, use plant-based alternatives like tofu or tempeh, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream, and ensure your Parmesan cheese is plant-based as well. Bob's your uncle!

How can I adjust the spice level of my Jerk Chicken Rasta Pasta recipe? I'm not great with heat!

Spice control is key, especially with jerk seasoning, which can vary greatly in heat. Start with a smaller amount of jerk seasoning than the recipe calls for and taste as you go. If you're still nervous, serve with a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt on the side; the dairy will help to cool things down. And, of course, skip the Scotch bonnet pepper entirely!

What's the best way to store leftover rasta pasta, and how long will it last?

Leftover Rasta Pasta is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will typically last for 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce, as it tends to thicken up in the fridge. Avoid reheating too many times, as the pasta can become mushy and the flavors can diminish. You can also freeze the rasta pasta, but be aware that the texture of the sauce might change slightly upon thawing.

Can I use different types of pasta for my Rasta Pasta? Penne isn't really my thing.

Sure thing! While penne is a classic choice because it holds the sauce well, you can definitely experiment with other pasta shapes. Rotini, farfalle (bowties), or even cavatappi would work beautifully. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as different shapes may require slightly different times to reach al dente. It's like choosing your favourite Beatle, everyone has one!

What are some easy additions I can make to my Rasta Pasta to take it to the next level?

Fancy a bit of a glow-up? To elevate your Rasta Pasta, consider adding some grilled pineapple chunks for sweetness and a tropical twist. Some chopped scallions or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes adds a nice textural contrast, or, for a truly luxurious experience, stir in some cooked shrimp or lobster at the end. It's like giving it a cheeky Nando's upgrade!

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