Oven-Roasted Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy oven-roasted chicken thighs marinated in spicy Caribbean jerk seasoning, topped with a fresh, tangy pineapple salsa bursting with tropical flavors. This caribbean-inspired chicken ready in about 55 minutes blends bone-in chicken thighs, Caribbean jerk seasoning, olive oil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 40 min Serves 4 Caribbean cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F. Rub 3 tbsp Caribbean jerk seasoning evenly over 6 bone-in chicken thighs and drizzle with 2 tbsp olive oil, massaging the spices into the skin.
  2. Step 2: Place the seasoned chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with foil, skin side up, and roast for 35-40 minutes until the skin is crisp and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  3. Step 3: While the chicken roasts, combine 1 cup diced fresh pineapple, 1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, 2 tbsp lime juice, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper in a bowl; stir gently until well mixed to create the pineapple salsa.
  4. Step 4: Remove the chicken from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve each chicken thigh topped generously with the pineapple salsa for a vibrant contrast of spicy and sweet flavors.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Oven-Roasted Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa take to make?

Total time is about 55 minutes (15 min prep + 40 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Oven-Roasted Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Oven-Roasted Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Oven-Roasted Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Oven-Roasted Caribbean Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa?

Caribbean chicken like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.