Jerk chicken salad recipes

Here are two ways to approach it: a **classic grilled version** and a **quick "weeknight hack" version**.

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## 1. The Classic Grilled Jerk Chicken Salad

This version focuses on the contrast between charred, spicy chicken and a creamy, cooling dressing.

### **The Chicken & Marinade**

* **Protein:** 1.5 lbs chicken thighs (stay juicier) or breasts.

* **The Rub:** Use a store-bought jerk paste (like Walkerswood) or mix allspice, thyme, scotch bonnet (or cayenne), garlic powder, ginger, and brown sugar.

* **Prep:** Coat the chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. Grill until charred and cooked through.

### **The Salad Base**

* **Greens:** Chopped Romaine or Spring Mix.

* **The "Island" Mix:** Red onion (thinly sliced), bell peppers, cucumbers, and **fresh mango or pineapple chunks** (the sweetness is non-negotiable for balance!).

* **Crunch:** Toasted pepitas or plantain chips crumbled on top.

### **The Dressing: Honey-Lime Vinaigrette**

Whisk together:

* 3 tbsp Olive oil

* Juice of 2 limes

* 1 tbsp Honey

* A pinch of salt and cilantro.

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## 2. The "Tropical Power" Bowl (Meal Prep Style)

If you want something more filling that holds up well in the fridge, go with a grain-based salad.

| Ingredient Category | Recommendations |

| --- | --- |

| **Grains** | Quinoa or "Rice and Peas" (chilled) |

| **Protein** | Jerk-seasoned pulled chicken |

| **Creamy Element** | Sliced avocado |

| **Beans** | Black beans or kidney beans |

| **Dressing** | **Creamy Jerk Ranch:** Mix 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, lime juice, and 1 tsp jerk seasoning. |

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## Pro-Tips for Success

* **Tame the Heat:** Jerk seasoning can be intense. If it's too spicy, increase the amount of mango or avocado in the salad to coat your palate.

* **The Char Matters:** Whether you use a grill or a cast-iron skillet, make sure the chicken gets those dark, caramelized edges. That "burnt" sugar and spice flavor is the soul of jerk cooking.

* **Vegetarian Swap:** This works beautifully with **Jerk Halloumi** or **Jerk Roasted Chickpeas**.