Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet

Name: Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: International Meals

I love experimenting with bold flavors, and this Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet has quickly become one of my favorites. The combination of spices creates a delightful heat, perfectly complementing the creamy chickpeas and vegetables. I find that serving this dish over rice or quinoa makes it a wholesome meal that’s not only satisfying but also packed with nutrition. It’s a great option for weeknight dinners when you want something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Odette Fairbanks

Last updated on 2026-01-14T07:37:34.987Z

Creating this Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet was an adventure in my kitchen. I wanted to capture the authentic flavors of Jamaican cuisine, and I was thrilled with the outcome. The jerk spices infuse the chickpeas with such depth that every bite bursts with flavor. I also experimented with adding bell peppers for a crisp texture and color, which elevated the dish even further.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. The key is to let the chickpeas marinate briefly in the spices before cooking; it really enhances the flavor profile!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bold and spicy jerk flavor that tantalizes the taste buds
Creamy chickpeas paired with colorful vegetables for a satisfying meal
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

Understanding Jerk Seasoning

Jamaican jerk seasoning is a harmonious blend of spices, with flavors that range from sweet to spicy. Popular ingredients include allspice, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers, each contributing a unique taste profile to the dish. In this recipe, the jerk seasoning not only infuses the chickpeas with its bold flavors but also enhances the overall aroma of the skillet. If you can’t find jerk seasoning, a homemade version using ground allspice, cayenne, and fresh herbs can bring a similar taste.

When using jerk seasoning, be mindful of its heat level. Since Scotch bonnet peppers are traditionally spicy, you may want to adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance. For a milder flavor, consider using less jerk seasoning or mixing it with a bit of sweet smoked paprika to maintain the essence while reducing heat. Understanding these nuances will help you customize the dish to your palate.

The Importance of Texture in Skillets

Texture plays a critical role in this Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet. The creamy chickpeas provide a hearty base, while the sautéed bell pepper and onion add crunch and sweetness. To achieve the best results, make sure to sauté the vegetables until they are just tender but not mushy. The ideal cooking time should be around five minutes on medium heat, which helps retain some bite and vibrancy in the veggies.

If you enjoy a bit of crispiness, consider broiling the dish for the last few minutes of cooking. This will enhance the caramelization of the chickpeas and bring out a lovely golden hue. Keep an eye on the skillet during this time to prevent burning, as the high heat can quickly change the color from golden to charred.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serving the Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet over rice or quinoa not only adds a satisfying base but also balances the dish's bold flavors. Coconut rice can be a delightful twist due to its creamy texture and touch of sweetness, which complements the heat of the jerk seasoning. Consider garnishing the dish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley to add a layer of freshness and color.

This skillet can be easily transformed into a complete meal by adding additional vegetables. Consider incorporating spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for a nutrient boost. If you want to make the dish heartier, adding diced sweet potatoes or even avocado as a topping can create a more substantial meal. Explore different combinations to find your favorite variation!

Ingredients

Ingredients:

Main Ingredients

2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Instructions:

Prepare the Chickpeas

In a bowl, toss the drained chickpeas with the Jamaican jerk seasoning, ensuring they are well coated. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Cook the Chickpeas

Add the seasoned chickpeas to the skillet and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken slightly.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, then serve hot over rice or quinoa. Enjoy your flavorful meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some chopped Scotch bonnet peppers when cooking the vegetables, but adjust according to your heat tolerance.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This skillet dish is not only quick to prepare but also makes for great leftovers. You can make it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat for about five to seven minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. You can add a splash of vegetable broth if it seems too thick.

For longer storage, consider freezing the chickpea mixture. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned.

Troubleshooting Common Mistakes

One common mistake when making this skillet is overcooking the chickpeas, which can lead to a mushy texture. To avoid this, keep an eye on them during the simmering phase and ensure they are heated through, around 15 minutes. If you see them breaking apart, lower the heat to prevent further cooking.

Another potential issue is under-seasoning. Jerk seasoning can be intense, but don’t hesitate to taste the mixture before serving. You can always adjust by adding more seasoning, salt, or even a squeeze of lime juice for extra zing. Balancing flavors is key to achieving the perfect dish.

Variations to Try

Feeling adventurous? Try adding protein to the skillet by including some cubed tofu or tempeh. Sauté them alongside the onions and peppers for added heartiness. This gives an extra layer of texture and flavor while enhancing the nutritional profile of the dish.

If you're aiming for a vegetarian or vegan twist, consider incorporating different legumes alongside chickpeas, such as black beans or kidney beans. Mixing different beans creates a unique flavor combination while keeping the dish packed with protein and fiber. Just ensure they are cooked properly before adding them to the skillet to maintain the cooking balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook them ahead of time. Make sure they're tender before adding them to the skillet.

→ What if I don't have Jamaican jerk seasoning?

You can create your own by mixing spices such as allspice, nutmeg, thyme, and paprika or look for a store-bought alternative.

→ Can this dish be made vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as it consists entirely of plant-based ingredients.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.