Can you put jerk seasoning on pasta?

Yes, and it’s absolutely magical. While jerk seasoning is traditionally used on meats like chicken, it brings bold, smoky heat to pasta too—especially when balanced with creamy sauce. In this jerk chicken pasta recipe, the seasoning is used on the chicken and layered into the sauce, giving every bite a warm Caribbean kick.

What does jerk chicken go well with?

Jerk chicken is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with creamy sides like mac and cheese, cool elements like mango salsa, or fresh greens like a tangy carrot ribbon salad . In this recipe, pairing it with pasta softens the heat and creates a comforting, crave-worthy dish. For a refreshing contrast, try it with my smoothie detox blend or roasted vegetables.

What is Rasta pasta sauce made of?

The heart of Rasta pasta sauce is cream—usually heavy cream or coconut milk—infused with jerk seasoning, garlic, peppers, and Parmesan cheese. It’s the perfect balance of spicy and silky. Some variations include green onions or a splash of broth for depth. In this jerk chicken pasta recipe, the sauce ties the whole dish together with heat, creaminess, and savory depth.

What sauce to serve with jerk chicken?

Beyond pasta, jerk chicken pairs well with sauces that balance the spice. Think lime crema, mango chutney, or a light vinaigrette for salads. In this recipe, the creamy Parmesan sauce cuts through the fire and creates a rich, indulgent experience. Want something tangy on the side? My green tea and lemonade is a perfect cooling match.

Jerk Chicken Pasta Recipe: 1-Pot Comfort, Unforgettable Heat

Name: Jerk Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or 4 chicken thighs; 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning (homemade or store-bought); 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; ½ cup chopped green onions; ¾ cup heavy cream; ½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable stock); ⅔ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 10 oz penne pasta (or rigatoni/fusilli); Salt and black pepper to taste; Chopped parsley or chives for garnish; Optional: a splash of coconut milk for Caribbean depth

Description

This is my ride-or-die version—the jerk chicken pasta recipe that brought me back to myself and now lives on in kitchens all over the world. It’s creamy, spicy, deeply savory, and easier than you’d expect.

Ingredients

Scale

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or 4 chicken thighs
2 tablespoons jerk seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup chopped green onions
¾ cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable stock)
⅔ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
10 oz penne pasta (or rigatoni/fusilli)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Chopped parsley or chives for garnish
Optional: a splash of coconut milk for Caribbean depth

Instructions

Rub chicken with jerk seasoning and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (overnight if possible).
Heat a skillet over medium-high. Add 1 tablespoon oil and sear chicken until charred and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes per side). Rest, then slice thin.
Boil pasta in salted water until just al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
In the same skillet, add remaining oil. Sauté peppers, green onions, and garlic until just tender (about 4–5 minutes). Add jerk seasoning if you want a stronger flavor.
Pour in heavy cream, broth, and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper. If needed, add pasta water to loosen.
Toss in sliced chicken and cooked pasta. Mix gently so everything gets coated. Finish with chopped parsley or chives.
Serve hot. This jerk chicken pasta recipe is best served immediately, but trust me—it tastes even better the next day.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Caribbean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 620
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 720mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: jerk chicken pasta, creamy jerk pasta, spicy chicken pasta