Ingredients
Spices:
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp allspice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
Chicken and Oil:
- 1 tbsp olive oil (plus 1 tbsp for spice mixture)
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
Rice and Toppings:
- 2 cups cooked cauliflower rice or conventional rice
- Shredded cabbage
- Chopped fresh tomato
- Shredded cheese
- Guacamole
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine cumin, smoked paprika, dried thyme, allspice, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, black pepper, and nutmeg thoroughly to create the jerk spice blend.
- Make the Marinade: Mix 1 tablespoon of the spice blend with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to form a paste that will coat the chicken.
- Season the Chicken: Rub the spice and oil mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs, ensuring thorough coverage for maximum flavor.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat and allow it to preheat until hot enough to sear the meat.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet and sear for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Slice the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the skillet and thinly slice it into strips for easy serving.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked cauliflower or conventional rice evenly among four bowls.
- Add Chicken and Toppings: Top each bowl with a quarter of the sliced jerk chicken and desired toppings such as shredded cabbage, chopped fresh tomato, shredded cheese, guacamole, chopped cilantro, and a wedge of lime for squeezing over the top.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts if preferred, though thighs remain juicier.
- Using cauliflower rice provides a low-carb, gluten-free option.
- Adjust cayenne pepper amount to control the heat level to your taste.
- Allow the chicken to rest briefly after cooking for juicier slices.
- Top bowls with fresh lime juice just before serving to add brightness.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 19 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Caribbean
- Diet: Gluten Free
