Jamaican jerk chicken tacos are an explosion of sweet and fiery flavors that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Jamaica. They are juicy pieces of chicken marinated in a homemade jerk marinade and accompanied by a sweet and fresh pineapple salsa.
Prepare the Jerk Chicken Marinade
14 If using store-bought jerk marinade, skip this step.
1 In a food processor or blender, combine the Scotch bonnet peppers, yellow onion, garlic, green onions, thyme, ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, honey, browning sauce, olive oil, lime juice, and salt. Blend until smooth to create the jerk marinade.
Marinate the Chicken
2 Thinly chop your chicken breast into strips. (or cook the chicken breast whole then chop after) Place the chicken breasts strips into a bowl or resealable plastic bag. Pour the jerk marinade over the chicken, making sure it is evenly coated. Cover and allow and the meat to marinate for at least 15-30 minutes in the refrigerator.
Prepare the Pineapple Salsa
3 While the chicken is marinating prepare the other ingredients. In a medium bowl, combine the diced pineapple, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, red onion, pepper, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Mix well to combine, then cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
Make the Jerk Crema
4 In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream or mayo, jerk marinade, lime juice, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Adjust the seasoning to taste, then cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. You can also toss the shredded cabbage with a few drizzles of the jerk crema.
Cook the Jerk Chicken
5 Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes. Preheat a skillet or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken strips for about 6 minutes, or until cooked through and nicely charred on the outside.
Assemble the Tacos
6 Warm the tortillas on the grill or in a skillet for about 30 seconds per side, until lightly toasted and pliable. Lay the warmed tortillas on a flat surface, place some of the shredded cabbage on each tortilla then place a few slices of jerk chicken on top. Top with a generous spoonful of homemade pineapple salsa. Drizzle with jerk crema then garnish with fresh cilantro.
7 Serve the Jamaican jerk chicken tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing.
