Jerk Grilled Chicken With Pineapple Fried Rice Recipe

Introduction

Craving a vibrant, flavor-packed dinner without the long wait? This Jerk Chicken & Pineapple Fried Rice in 30 Minutes delivers just that. Spicy, marinated chicken grills alongside smoky bacon, then gets tossed with sweet pineapple and savory fried rice for a complete Caribbean-inspired meal. For another quick and satisfying main, try this Easy 30-Minute Grilled Chicken Sandwich for Quick Meals.

Ingredients

This jerk chicken bacon pineapple fried rice recipe brings together smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors with a hint of tropical fruit for a truly satisfying meal.

• 1 teaspoon allspice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon coconut sugar or brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 lb chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 cup finely diced pineapple
• 1 bag Success Whole Grain Brown Rice, prepared according to package instructions (about 2 cups)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	35 minutes

Context: This jerk chicken bacon pineapple fried rice recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes, as the components cook quickly in one pan.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Jerk Chicken

Pat 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs dry and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Toss the chicken in 2–3 tablespoons of your favorite jerk seasoning paste or dry rub, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prep other ingredients.

Step 2 — Cook the Bacon & Render Fat

Chop 6 slices of thick-cut bacon into ½-inch pieces. Cook them in a large skillet or wok over medium heat until crisp. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the flavorful fat in the pan. This bacon fat will be your cooking oil for maximum flavor.

Step 3 — Sear the Jerk Chicken

Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the marinated jerk chicken to the hot bacon fat in a single layer. Sear without moving for 3–4 minutes to get a good crust, then flip and cook until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken and set aside with the bacon.

Step 4 — Sauté Aromatics & Pineapple

In the same pan, add 1 diced onion and 1 diced bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add 1 cup of fresh pineapple chunks and 2 minced garlic cloves, cooking for another 2 minutes until the pineapple caramelizes slightly and becomes fragrant.

Step 5 — Scramble the Eggs

Push the veggie and pineapple mixture to the side of the pan. Add a little more oil if needed, then pour in 2 beaten eggs. Let them set for 30 seconds before scrambling them into small curds right in the pan. Once cooked, mix them in with the vegetables.

Step 6 — Fry the Rice

Add 4 cups of cooked and cooled day-old jasmine or white rice to the pan. Break up any clumps with your spatula. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes, pressing the rice into the hot surface of the pan to get a slight crisp—this is the “fried” texture. For authentic fried rice, use cold rice to prevent mushiness.

Step 7 — Combine & Season

Return the cooked jerk chicken and crispy bacon to the pan. Add 2–3 tablespoons of soy sauce or tamari and 1 tablespoon of jerk seasoning paste (or to taste) for an extra flavor kick. Toss everything together over high heat for 2 minutes until steaming hot and evenly coated.

Step 8 — Finish & Garnish

Turn off the heat. Stir in 2 sliced green onions and a handful of chopped fresh cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning with a squeeze of lime juice, a pinch of salt, or more jerk paste. For a final touch, garnish with extra green onions and cilantro before serving.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~620 kcal
Protein	~38 g
Carbohydrates	~65 g
Fat	~22 g
Fiber	~4 g
Sodium	~950 mg

Note: Nutritional values for this jerk chicken bacon pineapple fried rice are estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size. Actual values can vary depending on specific brands and preparation methods.

Healthier Alternatives

This vibrant jerk chicken bacon pineapple fried rice is already packed with flavor, but you can easily tweak it to meet different dietary needs or health goals. Here are some smart swaps to try.

• Protein Swap: Use Turkey Bacon or Tempeh — For a leaner option, swap regular bacon for turkey bacon. For a plant-based version, crispy baked tempeh adds a savory, nutty depth that pairs wonderfully with the jerk spices.
• Lower-Carb Option: Cauliflower Rice — Replace white or brown rice with riced cauliflower. It soaks up the jerk marinade and pineapple juices beautifully, creating a lighter, low-carb version of this fried rice.
• Dairy-Free Adjustment: Coconut Aminos — If your jerk seasoning or sauce contains soy sauce, use coconut aminos instead. It’s naturally gluten-free, lower in sodium, and adds a subtle sweetness that complements the pineapple.
• Gluten-Free Fix: Tamari or Certified Sauces — Ensure your entire dish is gluten-free by using tamari instead of standard soy sauce and double-checking that your jerk seasoning blend is certified gluten-free.
• Low-Sodium Version: Homemade Jerk Seasoning — Control the salt by making your own jerk spice mix from scratch, using herbs, allspice, and Scotch bonnet peppers, and skip added soy sauce or use a very low-sodium variety.
• Extra Veggie Boost: Add Bell Peppers & Peas — Amp up the nutrition and color by stirring in diced bell peppers and green peas with the pineapple. They add crunch, sweetness, and extra fiber.
• Healthy Fat Alternative: Avocado Oil — For a high-heat cooking oil with a neutral flavor and beneficial fats, use avocado oil instead of vegetable or canola oil to fry your rice and ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this bold jerk chicken bacon pineapple fried rice with a simple, crisp side like a cucumber salad or steamed green beans to balance the heat and richness.
• For a casual summer gathering, serve it directly from the wok or skillet alongside grilled corn on the cob and a pitcher of tropical punch.
• Transform it into a complete meal-prep lunch by packing it into containers with a side of avocado slices or a light, citrusy slaw.
• Elevate your plating by serving the fried rice in a hollowed-out pineapple half for a stunning tropical presentation that highlights the sweet pineapple flavor.
• For a hearty brunch option, top each portion with a fried egg, allowing the runny yolk to create a luxurious sauce for the rice.
• Complement the spicy jerk seasoning by offering cooling condiments on the side, such as a dollop of sour cream, a drizzle of creamy cilantro sauce, or extra lime wedges.

This versatile dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or as a standout side at your next barbecue. The key to a great plate is balancing the powerful jerk spices with fresh, cool elements.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using fresh pineapple, which releases too much water and makes the rice soggy. Fix: Use well-drained canned pineapple or pat fresh chunks very dry before adding.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the pan with raw ingredients, causing them to steam instead of fry. Fix: Cook the jerk chicken and bacon in batches to ensure proper browning and texture.
• Mistake: Adding jerk seasoning only at the end, resulting in a bland, one-dimensional flavor. Fix: Marinate the chicken in jerk seasoning and also stir a bit into the rice as it fries.
• Mistake: Using warm, freshly cooked rice, which turns mushy and clumps together. Fix: Always use day-old, cold rice that has dried out slightly for the best fried rice texture.
• Mistake: Dicing the bacon too small, so it burns before rendering its fat for cooking. Fix: Cut bacon into larger lardons to render ample flavorful fat and achieve a perfect crisp.
• Mistake: Stirring the rice constantly, preventing the development of a delicious, slightly crispy sear. Fix: Let the rice sit undisturbed in the hot pan for a minute or two between stirs.
• Mistake: Skipping the “soy sauce around the pan” step, missing out on deep, caramelized flavor. Fix: Pour soy sauce down the sides of the hot wok or pan to let it sizzle and reduce instantly.
• Mistake: Adding delicate ingredients like green onions or peas too early, causing them to wilt and lose color. Fix: Stir in fresh herbs, peas, and green onions during the final minute of cooking.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool your jerk chicken bacon pineapple fried rice completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled fried rice in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat portions in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent dryness. You can also use a microwave, stirring every 30 seconds. Ensure the reheated fried rice reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Always store your jerk chicken bacon pineapple fried rice promptly after serving to maintain quality and safety. Avoid leaving it at room temperature for more than two hours.

Conclusion

This jerk grilled chicken with pineapple fried rice is the perfect sweet, spicy, and savory meal for your next cookout. We hope you love this tropical twist on a classic. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments! For more quick and delicious ideas, check out our Best Fried Pineapple with Coconut Crust Ready in 30 Minutes or our Easy 30-Minute Grilled Chicken Sandwich for Quick Meals.

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FAQs

Can I make jerk chicken bacon pineapple fried rice with fresh pineapple?

Yes, fresh pineapple works perfectly. Use about 1 cup of chopped fresh pineapple. Adding it towards the end of cooking preserves its bright, juicy texture which complements the savory jerk chicken and bacon.

What is the best rice to use for this fried rice?

Day-old, cold jasmine or long-grain white rice is ideal. It fries without becoming mushy, creating the perfect separate grains to soak up the bold flavors of this jerk chicken bacon pineapple fried rice.

How can I adjust the spice level of this dish?

Control the heat by using a mild or hot store-bought jerk seasoning. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat or reduce the amount of seasoning for a milder version of this jerk chicken bacon pineapple fried rice.