Have you ever made delicious jerk chicken? Its so good! And its really easy to make. But what do you serve with it? Ive got some ideas for you. Check out my blog post for some banging delicious ideas. Trust me, you wont be disappointed!.
Jerk Chicken along with brown stew chicken is like Jamaican soul food. Its a whole vibe and deserves soul food level sides, desserts, appetizers, and drinks that complement such a great dish. Just remember to reserve some of that jerk marinade used in the chicken. It goes great with other dishes like roasted onion steaks.
You don’t have to stress about what to serve with Jamaican jerk chicken. Just read this list of great sides, which includes both traditional favorites and new takes on old favorites. Youll love the many options which include several side dishes that represent some of the ultimate pairings with spicy foods.
Jamaicans love jerk chicken, which is chicken that has been marinated in a spicy mix of herbs and spices and then grilled or baked. The high heat cooking method makes chicken that is tasty, smells great, and has a nice char.
While jerk chicken is tasty all on its own it’s even better when you serve it with complementary side dishes. The right sides can provide contrasting flavors and textures that take your jerk chicken meal from good to spectacular.
In this article, we will share 18 of the very best side dishes to serve with jerk chicken. From classics like rice and peas to creative spins like grilled pineapple, keep reading for jerk chicken pairing ideas that your guests will love.
Classic Jamaican Side Dishes
Let’s start with some classic Jamaican sides that are pretty much made for jerk chicken.
Rice and Peas
Jamaicans often serve rice and peas as a side dish. The rice is cooked in coconut milk with beans like kidney or pigeon peas. The beans add protein, and the rice soaks up all the rich, creamy coconut flavor. It pairs perfectly with jerk chicken to soak up the spicy juices.
Fried Plantains
Sweet, ripe plantains are sliced and fried until caramelized and crispy on the outside while remaining soft and tender inside. Their natural sweetness balances beautifully with the heat of jerk chicken. Try serving fried sweet plantains with a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Callaloo
Callaloo is a leafy green vegetable similar to spinach that is popular in Caribbean cuisine. It is usually cooked down into a thick stew often made creamy with coconut milk and spiced with Scotch bonnet peppers. The stew is a nutritious, flavorful side dish.
Steamed Cabbage
Fresh cabbage steamed until just tender maintains a nice crunch that pairs well with the texture of jerk chicken. Scotch bonnet peppers add a touch of heat.
Best Starchy Sides for Jerk Chicken
Starchy vegetables and grains help temper the heat of jerk chicken. Here are some tasty options:
Coconut Rice
Made by cooking white rice in coconut milk instead of water, coconut rice is fragrant, creamy and slightly sweet – a delicious match for jerk chicken.
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
The natural sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes helps counterbalance spicy jerk chicken. They’re creamy, smooth and irresistible.
Roasted Potatoes
Crispy, well-browned roasted potatoes offer a satisfying crunch and hearty flavor. Roast bite-sized potatoes until browned and crunchy for the perfect texture contrast to juicy jerk chicken.
Mac and Cheese
Comforting, cheesy mac and cheese is never a bad idea. The creaminess helps temper the heat of jerk chicken. Try a version made with sharp cheddar for a nice flavor pairing.
Best Veggie Sides for Jerk Chicken
If you’re looking for lighter, veggie-based sides to go with jerk chicken, we have you covered.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Corn is naturally sweet, which goes well with spicy jerk chicken. Grilled corn gets a little smoky char while still being crisp and tender.
Sauteed Spinach
Quick-sauteed spinach maintains its texture beautifully. Alongside salty, savory jerk chicken, fresh spinach offers brightness and balance.
Coleslaw
Cool, crisp coleslaw offers great crunch and tangy sweetness – an ideal foil for the succulent meatiness of jerk chicken. A vinegar-based coleslaw pairs especially nicely.
Cucumber Tomato Salad
A simple salad of fresh cucumbers and tomatoes dressed in a lively vinaigrette boasts crunchy, juicy texture and bright flavor. It’s light and refreshing with jerk chicken.
Creative Ways to Use Fruit with Jerk Chicken
When paired with jerk chicken, sweet, ripe fruit can really shine. The natural sugars cool things down, and the fruit’s moisture adds a nice contrast.
Grilled Pineapple Slices
Caramelized, grill-charred pineapple offers sweetness along with smoky depth – a creative pairing for jerk chicken. Brush slices with brown sugar and grill alongside the chicken.
Mango Salsa
Fresh mango makes a lovely fruity salsa to spoon over chicken.Combine diced mango with red onion, bell pepper, cilantro and a squeeze of lime. Sweet, spicy and tangy.
Watermelon Wedges
Chilled wedges of ripe watermelon have a juicy crunch that cools the palate. Watermelon with jerk chicken is unexpected but delicious.
More Creative Jerk Chicken Side Pairings
Think outside the box with these unique sides for jerk chicken.
Carrot Salad
Shredded carrots in a light dressing offer crunch and natural sweetness to balance the rich chicken. Toasted nuts add crunch.
Southern-Style Potato Salad
Cool, creamy potato salad loaded with hard-boiled eggs, sweet pickle relish and diced celery is a familiar favorite that pairs well. The mayo-based dressing helps tame heat.
Cuban-Style Black Beans
Earthy, softly spiced black beans flavored with onion, garlic and cumin make a hearty, protein-packed accompaniment to jerk chicken. Their mild flavor contrasts nicely with the chicken’s kick.
Yuca Fries
Also known as cassava, yuca has a nutty, potato-like flavor when fried. Yuca develops a crispy exterior and fluffy interior when fried, adding great texture.
Jerk Pasta Salad
For a creative twist, try tossing short pasta with diced jerk chicken, celery, red onion and just enough jerk sauce to coat. Chill for a flavorful chicken salad.
Drinks to Serve with Jerk Chicken
Wash down your spicy jerk chicken with one of these refreshing beverages.
Jamaican Beer or Lager
A crisp Jamaican lager like Red Stripe is perfect for cutting through the heat of jerk chicken. Other easy-drinking lager styles work well too.
Fruity Rum Cocktails
Piña coladas, mojitos and other fruity rum cocktails offer sweetness to balance the heat. Make a pitcher to sip alongside your meal.
Mango Nectar or Juice
Chilled mango nectar boasts natural sweetness along with hydrating properties to tame jerk chicken’s spice level. It’s delicious and cools your mouth pleasantly.
Limeade or Lemonade
Homemade limeade or lemonade with fresh citrus juice gives you sweet-tart refreshment. For adults, add a splash of rum or vodka.
Iced Hibiscus Tea
Brewed from vibrant red hibiscus flowers, this tea offers bright acidity along with hydration. It makes a gorgeous non-alcoholic pairing beverage for jerk chicken.
Put Together Your Perfect Jerk Chicken Meal
Now that you know all the most mouthwatering options for sides to serve with jerk chicken, it’s time to start planning your menu!
Try pairing jerk chicken thighs with coconut rice, fried plantains and fresh mango salsa. Or go for chicken wings with creamy potato salad, tangy coleslaw and juicy watermelon wedges.
Get creative mixing and matching complementary flavors and textures from the sides suggested here to design a stellar jerk chicken plate. Your friends and family will be seriously impressed.
Just be sure to have plenty of napkins and cold drinks on hand to manage the heat. Then dig in and enjoy an amazing jerk chicken meal.
Here are 27 of our favorite combinations that will complement the spicy flavors of jerk chicken perfectly:
If youre looking for a delicious and easy recipe, look no further than Jamaican rice and peas! This wonderful side dish is made with coconut milk, herbs, and spices, and its sure to please both kids and adults alike. This Jamaican staple is simple to make, hearty, and flavorful. Give this dish a try next time youre looking for something new!.
Jamaican Rice & Peas
Classic dish that is traditionally made with rice, kidney beans, and coconut milk. It is a staple of Jamaican cuisine and is often served with fish or jerk chicken but it can also be enjoyed on its own.
Do you like cabbage? I do. And, I especially love Jamaican steamed cabbage. The Scotch bonnet peppers give it some heat, and the bell peppers, onions, and carrots give it some sweetness. Plus, its really easy to make. Just chop up the veggies and put them in a pot with some water. Cook until tender, then season with salt, pepper, and hot sauce to taste. So good! Give Jamaican steamed cabbage a try today! You wont be disappointed.
Jamaican Steamed Cabbage
This delicious Jamaican steamed cabbage is the perfect side dish to pair with your spicy jerk chicken. The crunchy texture and flavorful taste make this dish a must-have for any meal.
There’s no better side dish than this coconut rice recipe if you want to try something new and easy. The combination of coconut milk and rice results in a dish that is both creamy and flavorful. Plus, its simple enough that even beginner cooks can make it. So give this Caribbean dish a try the next time youre looking for something new!.
Coconut Rice
Looking for a delicious way to transport yourself to the Caribbean? Look no further than Coconut Rice. This dish is packed with flavor and will leave you feeling refreshed and satisfied. Coconut Rice is perfect for a quick and easy meal, and its also great for entertaining guests.
Have you ever had fried sweet plantains? if not, youre missing out! this delicious dish is a cross between a banana and a potato, and its perfect for a quick snack or a side dish. Theyre crispy on the outside, and soft and sweet on the inside. Plus, theyre really easy to make. You just need a few simple ingredients and about 15 minutes of your time. This version is seasoned with a jerk spice blend and gives you a sweet option balanced with savory flavors. Lets get it started!.
Fried Sweet Plantains
Fried Sweet Plantains are a delicious, easy to make, classic Jamaican soul food that goes with everything. Theyre perfect as a side dish or a snack.
This blog post is for all the moms out there who are always looking for new and interesting recipes to try. Jollof rice is a West African side dish made with rice, tomatoes, garlic cloves, ginger, and scotch bonnets. It’s so tasty that it will make your taste buds dance. If you want to try something new and tasty, you should try jollof rice. You wont regret it!.
Jollof Rice
Jollof rice is a West African soul food side beloved in the region. It is a delicious, spicy dish that brings comfort to anyone who eats it. The rice is cooked in a sauce of tomatoes and onions flavored with spices such as paprika, cayenne pepper, and ground coriander seeds.
Have you ever cooked okra? If not, youre missing out! Okra is a delicious vegetable that can be prepared in a variety of ways. Stewed okra is my favorite way to enjoy okra. This dish is simple to prepare and a perfect side dish for dinner. So what are you waiting for? Lets get started!
Stewed Okra
Delicious comfort food that happens to be plant-based. Its highly flavorful and classic Southern cooking which so much soul.
Summer is in full swing and that means cookouts and outdoor parties are happening all the time. This smashed cucumber salad is the perfect side dish for any summer get-together and a great fit with Jerk Chicken. Its light, refreshing, and easy to make. Plus, its a great way to use up any extra cucumbers you have lying around. So give this recipe a try and enjoy your summertime celebrations!
A light and refreshing side dish thats perfect for cooling down spicy food. The amazing texture comes from smashing the cucumbers.
There are a few things in this world that I know for sure. One is that my family loves Caribbean food. Another is that they love collard greens. So when I was thinking about what to make for dinner the other night and these two facts popped into my head, it was a no-brainer – curried collard greens! The end result was a delicious meal that the entire loved. And bonus – its incredibly easy to make! If youre looking for a tasty weeknight dinner idea, check out this recipe for curried collard greens. You wont be disappointed!
Curried Collard Greens
A vegan/vegetarian-friendly soul food dish that is a fusion of traditional Southern cooking with Caribbean spices. The collard greens are cooked in coconut milk, which adds rich flavor.
One of my favorite things to do is experiment in the kitchen. I love finding new ways to cook old favorites and turning everyday ingredients into something special. Recently, I decided to try my hand at a collard greens slaw and it turned out great! If youre looking for a great side dish featuring leafy greens, this is definitely worth trying.
The classic BBQ side dish that’s tasty and easy to make! This slaw is the perfect twist on a Southern classic. It’s a delicious, creamy coleslaw with just enough tangy flavor.
Grilled Sweet Potato Wedges
Moms, have you ever grilled sweet potatoes? If not, youre missing out! Grill them up on a hot day and enjoy their delicious smoky sweet flavor. Plus, their sweet cooling nature is perfect for any summer main dish meal like spicy jerk chicken. Serve with mango salsa and give them a try today!
These sweet potato wedges are so delicious, you won’t believe they were cooked on a grill! They’re a great vegan soul food option thats ready in minutes.
Have you ever had callaloo soup? Its a delicious Caribbean soup made with greens and coconut milk. If youre looking for an easy, tasty soup to make, give this callaloo soup a try! You wont be disappointed!
A classic Caribbean dish thats plant-based, tasty, and versatile. It can be enjoyed as a main course or appetizer.
Summertime is all about grilling out with friends and family. This year, take your grilled dishes up a notch by adding some delicious watermelon. Grilled watermelon is an impeccable dish and its sweet flavor is the perfect balance against the heat of jerk chicken. Follow this simple recipe to grill your own watermelon this summer.
A delicious, plant-based appetizer or side dish thats perfect for any occasion. With its sweet and smoky flavor, grilled watermelon is a great way to enjoy the taste of summer all year long.
Have you ever tried avocado salad? Its a really delicious dish thats perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Plus, its easy to customize to your liking and create different flavor combinations. This version is Cuban-inspired leveraging ingredients like lime juice, garlic, oregano, and olive oil. Check out this recipe for some ideas on how to make your own avocado salad.
Delicious, plant-based appetizer or side dish. This Cuban-inspired dish is easy to make and full of flavor. Fresh avocado is the perfect pairing for jerk chicken.
Is there anything more quintessentially American than potato salad? This summertime classic side dish is perfect for potlucks, BBQs, and picnics. And its so easy to make – just chop up some potatoes, eggs, and onions, and mix in a few simple ingredients. Plus, there are endless variations on this dish, so you can customize it to your taste. So why not give it a try this weekend? Your friends and family will love it and invite you back!
Classic soul food side dish thats perfect for potlucks and barbecues. Comfort food at its best – easy to make and a crowd pleaser.
Watermelon wedge salad is a delicious, summery dish thats perfect for picnics and potlucks. Its easy to make, and its always a hit with crowds. Best of all, its refreshing, so you can indulge guilt-free! Make this tasty and refreshing version.
The perfect side dish for your bbq or any summer day. This refreshing salad can be made in minutes and will have everyone asking for more. Cool off your tongue after munching on spicy jerk chicken.
What Are Good Sides For Jerk Chicken? – The Caribbean Expert
FAQ
What is a good side with jerk chicken?
The best sides to go with jerk chicken or pork are rice and peas, a traditional Caribbean side dish that goes well with both. Plantain: Fried plantains is a popular side dish in Caribbean cuisine. Festival: Festival is a Jamaican cornmeal fritter that resembles a slightly sweet, fried dumpling.
What is traditionally eaten with jerk chicken?
Traditionally Jerk Chicken is served with side of rice and peas. I also serve few other sides which balances the flavor of spices in Jerk Chicken. Like today I served it with rice and peas, and mango strawberry salsa.
What pairs well with honey jerk chicken?
8 Sides for Jerk Chicken01 of 08. Jamaican Rice and Peas. Abby Hocking. 02 of 08. Jamaican Callaloo. 03 of 08. Jamaican Hot Sauce. 04 of 08. Snapper Escovitch. 05 of 08. Kwame’s Pepper Shrimp. 06 of 08. Jamaican Jerk Pork Patties. 07 of 08. Jamaican Coco Bread. 08 of 08. “Festival” (Jamaican Cornbread Fritters).
What goes with jerk wings for dinner?
You can serve your jerk wings with hard-dough bread or your favorite side dish, like grilled corn, potatoes, rice, vegetables, or anything else you like. ).
What is traditionally served with jerk chicken?
Jerk chicken dinner sides commonly include rice dishes, vegetables, and potatoes. You can make jerk chicken tacos, skewers, wraps, or just serve it as a real Jamaican jerk chicken breast or thigh.
What side dishes go with jerk chicken?
So there you go! Those were 18 of the best side dishes to serve alongside jerk chicken. As jerk chicken is renowned for its spiciness and smoky flavor, it makes sense to pair it with sweet dishes that contain ingredients like coconut.
Can you serve jerk chicken with roast chicken?
Yes, the best side dishes for roast chicken can also be served with jerk chicken. Classic options like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh side salad complement both types of chicken dishes perfectly. These side dishes provide a well-balanced meal and enhance the flavors of the chicken.
Which Jamaican food goes well with jerk chicken?
Bread is a staple side dish to serve up during any meal, and Jamaica has their own version that pairs amazingly well with spicy dishes like jerk chicken. Coco bread is very easy to make, yet it is deliciously sweet and soft thanks to the coconut milk and plenty of butter used in this recipe.
Can jerk chicken be served on its own?
The chicken is then grilled or smoked until it is cooked through and has a crispy skin. Jerk chicken can be served on its own, but it is often accompanied by a variety of sides. Here are 25 of the best sides for jerk chicken: Learn how to make the BEST Instant Pot Corn on the Cob.
What to drink with jerk chicken?
Super-chilled drinks with a bit of sweetness and spice make a refreshing counterpoint to a jerk chicken’s smoky heat. There are so many amazing drink pairing possibilities! While drink pairings often focus on alcohol options, no one would judge you if you just poured yourself an icy glass of sweet and spicy ginger beer.