Bahama Breeze Jerk Chicken Pasta Recipe Easy Jamaican

Bahama Breeze Jerk Chicken Pasta recipe creates a dish that beautifully melds the fiery zest of Jamaican jerk seasoning with the creamy indulgence of pasta. The jerk marinade, typically a mix of allspice, hot peppers, and other seasonings, infuses the chicken with an unmistakable heat and aroma that’s moderated by a rich and velvety sauce, often involving parmesan and cream, coating the pasta.

Crafting this dish at home brings a taste of island cuisine to the dinner table. The process involves sautéing marinated jerk chicken until perfectly seared, then tossing it with a luscious sauce that captures the essence of the original dishes served at popular restaurants like Bahama Breeze. Adding my contoured balance of herbs and spices to the sauce complements the chicken, while including vegetables like bell peppers or asparagus introduces a pleasant crunch and freshness. Each bite promises a harmony of flavors that deliver both comfort and excitement to those seeking a culinary adventure in their own kitchens.

Getting Started with Ingredients

Before we dive into the exciting process of making Bahama Breeze Jerk Chicken Pasta, it’s crucial to select the right ingredients. Quality chicken and pasta form the base of this dish, while the unique flavors are a product of the authentic spices used.

Choosing the Chicken and Pasta For Your Bahama Breeze Jerk Chicken Pasta Recipe

For the chicken, I recommend using boneless chicken breasts for a tender and lean option. It’s essential to start with well-trimmed chicken to ensure even cooking and the best flavor absorption. When it comes to the pasta, two excellent choices are either penne pasta or bow tie pasta. The ridges in penne are excellent for clinging onto the rich, spicy sauce, while bow tie pasta provides a delightful visual appeal and a nice bite.

Essential Spices and Seasonings

The soul of Jerk Chicken Pasta lies within its spices and seasonings. You can choose between making your own homemade jerk seasoning or using a quality pre-made Jamaican jerk spice. If you opt for store-bought, look for a brand that delivers the perfect blend of spices. Typically, about two to three tablespoons of jerk seasoning per pound of chicken will suffice. Remember that the spice level can be adjusted to taste, but traditional jerk seasoning is meant to be bold and flavorful.

Preparing Your Chicken

Before I dive into the actual cooking, it’s essential for me to make sure my chicken is flavored to perfection and cooked just right. My attention to detail at this stage ensures a meal that’s both delicious and safe to eat.

Marinating for Flavor

I always start by generously coating the chicken breasts with approximately two tablespoons of spicy jerk seasoning. This powerful blend is the heart of the dish, infusing the meat with a bold, Caribbean flair. After seasoning, I place the chicken in the refrigerator to marinate. This can be anywhere from one hour to eight hours – the longer, the more intense the flavors.

Cooking to Perfection

When it’s time to cook, I bring the chicken out to reach room temperature and then start by setting a skillet on medium-high heat. A splash of oil is heated before I lay the chicken in, aiming for that golden brown sear on each side. It’s crucial for the chicken’s internal temperature to reach 165°F for safety, which I always check using a meat thermometer to make sure it’s cooked through thoroughly. A well-cooked jerk chicken radiates aroma and sizzle, inviting you to taste the warmth of the Caribbean.

Creating the Jerk Pasta Base

When creating the jerk pasta base for Bahama Breeze’s famous dish, I focus on balancing the creamy richness of the sauce with the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean. Properly prepared vegetables lay the foundation for a flavorful experience, followed by a sauce that’s both indulgent and aromatic.

Sautéing the Vegetables

I begin by sautéing my vegetables in a large pan over medium heat. The orange bell peppers and red bell pepper are sliced into thin strips, while the green onions are finely chopped to disperse their flavor throughout the dish. It is essential to cook them until they are just soft, ensuring they retain some of their crispness to complement the creamy texture of the pasta.

Building the Sauce

Next, I build the sauce directly in the pan with the sautéed vegetables. I add a precise amount of heavy cream to introduce a luxurious mouthfeel. Here’s how I combine the liquids and the seasonings:

Ingredients:

• Heavy cream: 1 cup
• Chicken broth: 1/2 cup
• Coconut milk: 1/4 cup
• Alfredo sauce: 1/2 cup

Instructions:

1. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth into the pan and stir to combine with the vegetables.
2. To this, I incorporate coconut milk for a subtle tropical nuance that is unmistakably Caribbean.
3. Finally, I stir in the alfredo sauce to achieve the perfect consistency and richness.

Together, these elements create a jerk pasta base that is smooth, flavorful, and utterly inviting.

Cooking Pasta to Al Dente

When creating Bahama Breeze Jerk Chicken Pasta, the texture of your pasta is a crucial element. Achieving an al dente, or ‘to the tooth’, quality ensures that the penne provides a firm bite which perfectly complements the rich and spicy jerk sauce.

Boiling Pasta For Your Bahama Breeze Jerk Chicken Pasta Recipe

To start, I fill a large pot with water, adding a generous pinch of salt to enhance the pasta’s flavor. When the water reaches a rolling boil, I carefully add the penne. It’s essential to stir the pasta occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. I test the pasta a couple of minutes before the package’s suggested cooking time to catch that perfect al dente stage, where the pasta is cooked through but still firm.

Combining with the Jerk Sauce

Once the pasta reaches al dente perfection, I drain it promptly, being careful to reserve a cup of pasta water, which can be used to adjust the consistency of the jerk sauce if needed. After draining, I add the pasta back to the large pot, away from the heat, to keep the top of the pasta from drying out. Then, I pour the rich jerk sauce over the pasta, stirring gently to combine. The residual heat from the pasta helps the flavors meld together while maintaining the pasta’s ideal texture.

Finishing Touches and Plating

As I prepare the serving of Bahama Breeze jerk chicken pasta, I focus on the perfect balance of flavors that please the taste buds. A well-presented dish enhances the dining experience, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Adding the Final Ingredients

Before serving, I sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over the pasta. This not only adds an extra flavor dimension but also gives the dish an enticing appearance. Along with the cheese, I might add fresh herbs such as parsley, green onion, or cilantro for a little pop of color and an additional layer of taste.

Essential Ingredients and Preparation Steps for Bahama Breeze Jerk Chicken Pasta Recipe

Component	Ingredients	Preparation Tips
Chicken Selection	Boneless chicken breasts	Trim well for even cooking and flavor absorption
Pasta Choice	Penne or bow tie pasta	Penne for sauce adherence, bow tie for visual appeal
Spices & Seasonings	Homemade or pre-made jerk seasoning	Use 2-3 tablespoons per pound of chicken
Marinating Chicken	Jerk seasoning	Marinate 1-8 hours for flavor infusion
Cooking Chicken	Oil, chicken	Sear until golden, ensure internal temp of 165°F
Vegetable Preparation	Orange and red bell peppers, green onions	Sauté until soft, retain crispness
Sauce Creation	Heavy cream, chicken broth, coconut milk, Alfredo sauce	Combine in pan with sautéed vegetables
Pasta Cooking	Salt, water, pasta	Boil until al dente, stir occasionally
Combining & Plating	Cooked pasta, jerk sauce, chicken	Combine, add final touches like parmesan and herbs
Spice Adjustments	Cayenne pepper, jerk seasoning	Adjust to taste, balance spice and flavor
Storage & Leftovers	Airtight containers	Cool, separate, and refrigerate; reheat gently
Variations/Substitutions	Tofu, mushrooms, vegan Parmesan, alternative pasta	Customize for dietary needs or preference

Serving Suggestions

I ensure the dinner table is set neatly to complement the allure of the dish I’m about to serve. To plate, I use a twirling fork technique to nestle the pasta beautifully in the center of the plate, creating a tall and inviting mound. This helps in controlling portion sizes and gives a professional touch to the meal. The key is to serve generous portions that satisfy the hungry diners while presenting them in an appealing manner. Each plate I prepare is not just a meal, but an experience for those gathered around the table.

Cooking Techniques and Tips

When recreating the Bahama Breeze Jerk Chicken Pasta at home, understanding the nuances of heat management and seasoning adjustments is crucial to replicating the restaurant-style dish. Proper techniques ensure the pasta is flavorful and cooked to perfection.

Adjusting the Spice Level

Jerk seasoning is known for its spicy kick, primarily coming from ingredients like cayenne pepper. When preparing the dish, I adjust the spice level according to my heat preference. If I prefer a milder taste, I reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or opt for a milder jerk seasoning blend.

• Less spicy: Use less cayenne pepper or select a milder jerk seasoning.
• More spicy: Increase the cayenne pepper or add chopped jalapeños with seeds.

Ensuring Even Cooking

To ensure that the chicken and pasta cook evenly, I always use specific heat levels. I start by cooking the chicken over medium heat to achieve a thorough cook without burning the spices. For the pasta, I bring the water to a boil over high heat and then reduce to a low heat once I add the pasta to maintain a gentle simmer. This method helps in cooking the pasta evenly, preventing it from becoming mushy.

• Chicken: Cook over medium heat for even cooking.
• Pasta: Boil on high, then simmer on low heat.

Storage and Leftovers

When I store my leftover jerk chicken pasta, my focus is on maintaining its freshness and flavor. To achieve this, I use separate airtight containers for the pasta and chicken, ensuring that they’re ready for later use without compromising on taste.

Preserving for Later Use

For preserving the leftover jerk chicken pasta, I take the following steps:

• Cooling: I ensure that the pasta is cooled to room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
• Separating: I store the jerk chicken and pasta in separate airtight containers to keep the ingredients from getting soggy.
• Refrigerating: The containers go straight into my refrigerator, where they can be kept safely for up to two days.

Reheating Instructions

When it comes time to reheat, I follow these specific steps to restore the jerk chicken pasta to its original glory:

1. Preparation: I remove the pasta and chicken from the fridge and let it sit out for a few minutes to take off the chill.
2. Stovetop Method:
   • I place the chicken in a pan and reheat it slowly on medium heat to retain moisture.
   • I opt for adding a splash of water or chicken broth to the pasta when reheating it in a separate pan, stirring occasionally.
3. Microwave Method:
   • I use a microwave-safe dish for the pasta and cover it with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture while I heat it on medium power.
   • For the chicken, I reheat it in the microwave using a lower power setting to avoid drying it out.

Variations and Substitutions

In my experience preparing this flavorful dish, I’ve found that the Bahama Breeze Jerk Chicken Pasta can be tailored to suit different dietary needs or preferences without compromising on taste.

Vegan and Vegetarian Options

For those who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet, swapping out chicken for grilled tofu or mushrooms can be a delightful alternative. I recommend using a rich vegetable broth to marinate or sauté your vegan protein to infuse it with flavor. To ensure your vegetables or tofu reach the preferred tenderness, adjust the cooking time accordingly—firm tofu benefits from a brief sauté, while mushrooms might need a few extra minutes to develop a savory depth.

Alternative Ingredients

• Dairy-Free: To accommodate dairy restrictions, use nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan substitute in place of traditional cheese.
• Pasta Varieties: While penne is commonly used, feel free to explore other pasta shapes that are better suited to your taste or available in your pantry.
• Seasoning: Control the spice level by adjusting the quantity of jerk seasoning or by creating your own blend to cater to your desired heat intensity.

By considering these variations and substitutions, I can confidently say that you’ll still be able to enjoy the essence of Bahama Breeze’s beloved dish, even with dietary constraints or ingredient swaps.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to preparing a delightful Bahama Breeze jerk chicken pasta, everyone has questions. I will provide you with specifics to ensure you can create this flavorful dish with confidence.

What ingredients are needed for the Bahama Breeze jerk chicken pasta?

The key ingredients include chicken breasts seasoned with jerk spice, pasta, and a creamy sauce made with half-and-half and chicken broth. You’ll also need vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, and mushrooms, and a touch of parmesan cheese for richness.

How can one make a simpler version of jerk chicken pasta at home?

For a simpler home version, marinate the chicken with store-bought jerk seasoning and sauté with vegetables. Then, toss in cooked pasta and a quick sauce made from cream and chicken stock, heated and thickened in the same pan.

What are the key spices in a jerk seasoning blend for authentic flavor?

Authentic jerk seasoning includes a blend of allspice, thyme, Scotch bonnet peppers, garlic, cinnamon, and nutmeg. You can find these bold flavors in most jerk seasoning mixes.

Can the Bahama Breeze jerk chicken pasta recipe be adapted for a pineapple bowl presentation?

Certainly, you can adapt the recipe for a pineapple bowl presentation. Scoop out a fresh pineapple to serve as a bowl and fill it with the prepared jerk chicken pasta for a festive Caribbean twist.

What is the average price range for the jerk chicken pasta at Bahama Breeze?

The average price range for jerk chicken pasta at Bahama Breeze restaurants typically falls between $15 to $20, depending on location and seasonal changes in the menu.

Craving more delicious recipes? Try our Japanese Tofu Cheesecake