The vibrant, fiery soul of the Caribbean comes alive in this creamy, colorful bowl of Rasta Pasta with Jerk Chicken. Tender penne soaks up a rich cream sauce seasoned with hot jerk spices, while sautéed bell peppers and onions bring bold texture and brightness to the dish.
Each bite offers the perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and savory depth, making it a standout option for dinner parties or a cozy night in. This fusion of Italian and Jamaican flavors is as exciting to the tastebuds as it is to the eyes, and best of all—it comes together easily in one skillet. Whether you’re new to Caribbean cuisine or already a fan of jerk, this pasta is sure to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen.
Full Recipe:
For the Chicken:
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1 lime
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins, cut into 2-inch pieces
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1 tbsp hot jerk seasoning
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1 tbsp green seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
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1/2 tsp browning sauce (optional)
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2 tsp neutral oil (like avocado or canola)
For the Pasta:
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8 oz penne pasta
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4 tsp neutral oil (for sautéing)
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1/2 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
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1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
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1/2 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
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1/2 yellow onion, thinly sliced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
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2 cups heavy cream
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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1/2 tsp paprika
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1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Directions:
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Prep the Chicken: Place chicken in a bowl. Squeeze juice of 1 lime over the pieces, fill with water to cover, and let sit for 15–20 minutes. Drain and rinse twice. Pat dry.
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Marinate Chicken: Add jerk seasoning, green seasoning, browning sauce, and oil. Mix well, cover, and marinate for 30 minutes or overnight.
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Cook Pasta: Boil salted water, cook penne for 7–8 minutes. Drain and toss with a little oil.
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Cook Chicken: In a skillet with 2 tsp oil over medium heat, sauté marinated chicken for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked and browned. Remove and set aside.
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Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add oil if needed and sauté peppers, onion, garlic, and thyme until tender but crisp (about 5 minutes).
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Make Sauce: Return chicken to pan. Add cream, salt, pepper, and paprika. Simmer for 5 minutes, then stir in Parmesan. Simmer another 1–2 minutes until cheese melts.
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Combine: Add pasta to the sauce. Toss well, let sit for 2 minutes to absorb flavor. Serve hot.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 571 kcal | Servings: 4–6 servings
What Is Rasta Pasta with Jerk Chicken?
Rasta Pasta with Jerk Chicken is a vibrant fusion dish that blends the rich culinary traditions of Jamaica with the comforting familiarity of Italian pasta. It’s a colorful, spicy, and creamy pasta dish made with jerk-marinated chicken, sautéed bell peppers, and a luscious cream-based sauce, typically served over penne or similar pasta. While it has gained global popularity in recent years, its roots are deeply Caribbean, specifically Jamaican, and its flavors reflect the vibrancy of island life.
What makes this dish truly unique is the incorporation of jerk seasoning—a bold, spicy, and aromatic blend that transforms simple chicken into something extraordinary. Combined with cream and cheese, the result is a dish that marries fire and richness, creating a culinary experience that’s both comforting and exciting.
The Origins of Rasta Pasta
The name “Rasta Pasta” has an interesting backstory. The term was coined in the mid-1980s by Chef Lorraine Washington in Negril, Jamaica. According to local lore, she prepared a vegetarian pasta dish using fettuccine and ackee (Jamaica’s national fruit) for a group of Rastafarian construction workers. The dish featured the Rasta colors of red, green, and yellow—thanks to bell peppers and ackee—and one of the workers playfully called it “Rasta Pasta.” The name stuck, and the dish quickly gained traction.
Today, Rasta Pasta has evolved well beyond its vegetarian origins. Many versions include protein like jerk chicken, shrimp, or even tofu, and while the pasta base may change, the core elements—color, spice, and creaminess—remain.
The Flavor Profile
At the heart of Rasta Pasta’s appeal is its complex and satisfying flavor profile. Jerk chicken introduces a smoky, spicy heat, thanks to a marinade typically made from Scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, thyme, garlic, ginger, and other bold spices. This fiery base is then mellowed out by a rich cream sauce—often made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese—offering a luxurious mouthfeel that balances the spice beautifully.
The bell peppers and onions not only add sweetness and crunch but also contribute to the aesthetic of the dish. Their natural colors—red, green, and yellow—not only honor the Rasta flag but also provide essential flavor and texture contrast.
The result is a dish that hits every note: spicy, creamy, savory, and slightly sweet, with layers of depth that make every bite interesting and satisfying.
Cultural Significance
While Rasta Pasta has become trendy worldwide, it holds special meaning within Caribbean communities, particularly those of Jamaican descent. It represents more than just a meal—it’s a story of cultural fusion, adaptability, and innovation. The name “Rasta Pasta” not only alludes to Rastafarianism, a spiritual movement with roots in Jamaica, but also symbolizes the use of locally available ingredients and bold flavors that characterize Caribbean cuisine.
The inclusion of jerk seasoning, in particular, ties the dish to a tradition that dates back centuries. Originally developed by the Maroons (escaped slaves in Jamaica), jerk cooking is a method of preserving and flavoring meat using a unique blend of spices and slow-cooking techniques. It’s a symbol of resistance, identity, and pride.
Why This Dish Is So Popular
There are many reasons why Rasta Pasta with Jerk Chicken has become a household favorite:
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Flavor Explosion: The combination of spice, cream, herbs, and sautéed vegetables is unbeatable.
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Easy to Make: Despite its complex flavors, the dish is relatively simple to prepare.
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Visually Stunning: The bright colors make it appealing and Instagram-worthy.
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Highly Customizable: You can make it vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-free with simple swaps.
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Complete Meal: With protein, vegetables, and carbs in one bowl, it’s a full, satisfying meal.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick weekday dinner with flair, this dish delivers in every category.
Customizing the Recipe to Suit Your Needs
Rasta Pasta is extremely flexible, allowing for multiple variations to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability. Here are some popular modifications:
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Vegetarian/Vegan: Skip the chicken and use plant-based protein like tofu, tempeh, or mushrooms. For a vegan version, replace cream and cheese with coconut milk and nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta. Ensure your jerk marinade is also gluten-free (many pre-made ones are).
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Less Spicy: Opt for mild jerk seasoning or reduce the quantity. You can also add more cream to soften the heat.
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More Veggies: Include broccoli, spinach, or even zucchini for added nutrients and bulk.
This versatility makes the dish ideal for home cooks and professional chefs alike.
Pairing Suggestions
The bold and creamy flavors of Rasta Pasta with Jerk Chicken pair well with:
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Side Salads: A crisp cabbage slaw or cucumber salad provides a refreshing counterpoint.
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Drinks: Tropical beverages like pineapple juice, ginger beer, or coconut water complement the Caribbean flavors.
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Desserts: Finish the meal with mango sorbet or coconut macaroons to stay within the tropical theme.
These pairings help enhance the experience and bring out the best in the dish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Rasta Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep it in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving for too long as the cheese can break and turn oily.
For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta, though the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon reheating. If freezing, do so before adding the cream sauce for the best results.
Health Considerations
While Rasta Pasta is indulgent, it can be adapted for healthier eating. Choose whole-grain pasta, low-fat cream alternatives, or bulk up the veggie content to increase fiber and reduce calorie density. If you’re watching sodium levels, consider making your own jerk marinade to control salt content.
Also, using lean protein like chicken breast and incorporating dairy substitutes like cashew or oat milk can lighten the dish without compromising flavor.
Conclusion
Rasta Pasta with Jerk Chicken is more than just a delicious meal—it’s a culinary celebration of culture, creativity, and comfort. It represents the bold, colorful soul of Jamaican cuisine while seamlessly integrating global influences. Whether you’re seeking an exciting weeknight dinner, something different for a dinner party, or a way to bring Caribbean warmth into your kitchen, this dish is an ideal choice.
Its balance of spice, creaminess, and fresh vegetables makes it universally appealing, and its flexibility ensures it can be enjoyed by almost everyone, regardless of dietary preferences. Once you’ve tried it, it’s hard not to fall in love with the magic of Rasta Pasta. It’s a recipe that tells a story in every bite—and invites you to come back for more.