Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet

Name: Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Fusion Ideas

I absolutely love experimenting with flavors from different cultures, and this Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet has become a favorite in my kitchen. The combination of smoky, spicy, and sweet elements creates a dish that's not only vibrant in taste but also packed with protein. Each bite is a journey through the colorful spices of Jamaican cuisine, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, which I appreciate when I'm short on time but still want something delicious!

Created by

Frederica Houghton

Last updated on 2026-01-14T05:57:35.081Z

When developing this recipe, I wanted something quick yet comforting and bursting with flavor. Inspired by traditional jerk seasoning, I crafted a spice blend that perfectly complements the chickpeas. The key is to let the chickpeas marinate briefly so they can soak up all that spicy goodness, which brings the dish to life. I also love how versatile it is—serve it over rice, with pita, or even in a salad for a refreshing twist!

Using canned chickpeas makes this skillet meal incredibly convenient, cutting down on prep time significantly. I sometimes enhance the dish with fresh greens or avocado on top, giving it an extra flair while adding delightful creaminess. Trust me, this dish will transport your taste buds straight to the Caribbean!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and complex jerk seasoning that tantalizes the taste buds
Quick to prepare yet bursting with authentic Caribbean flavor
Versatile dish—enjoy it as a main course or a hearty side

      

Unlocking Jerk Spice Flavor

The heart of this Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet is the jerk seasoning. This vibrant blend typically includes spices like allspice, nutmeg, and thyme, which add depth and warmth to the dish. I recommend using a high-quality, authentic jerk seasoning for the best results. If you can't find it locally, you can easily make your own by blending these spices along with some cayenne pepper and fresh scallions. This ensures a fresh, aromatic flavor that elevates the chickpeas significantly.

When adding the jerk seasoning, be sure to coat the chickpeas thoroughly. This will enhance the overall flavor, creating a perfectly balanced dish with each bite. Cooking with these spices not only introduces tantalizing flavors but also offers various health benefits, thanks to their anti-inflammatory properties. Just be cautious with the amount you use, as it can be quite potent. Starting with 2 tablespoons lets you gauge the heat and adjust according to your taste preferences.

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients like bell peppers and onions not only adds a beautiful burst of color but also contributes to the texture and taste. Sautéing the onions until they are translucent and the bell peppers are just tender allows their natural sweetness to emerge, which beautifully complements the spiciness of the jerk seasoning. I like to cut my bell pepper into small, even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly and blend seamlessly with the chickpeas.

Diced tomatoes play a crucial role in adding moisture and acidity to the dish. The acidity helps balance the richness of chickpeas while the juices from the tomatoes create a delicious sauce that clings to the ingredients. Make sure to use canned tomatoes with no added sugars or preservatives for the best flavor. If you're in the mood for a variation, you can substitute the diced tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a smoky twist, or add some corn for a touch of sweetness.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking to make the process quicker and more enjoyable.

Ingredients

2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Make sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences as the jerk spice can vary in heat.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Heat the Skillet

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until they become soft, about 5 minutes.

Add Aromatics

Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Spice It Up

Add the drained chickpeas and Jamaican jerk seasoning to the skillet. Stir well to coat the chickpeas evenly with the spices.

Incorporate Tomatoes

Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes.

Final Touches

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once done, remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

For extra flavor, consider serving this dish with lime wedges on the side.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, feel free to add a splash of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños when cooking. Also, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the chickpea skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the flavor and texture, reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth to help revive the sauce. Microwaving is also an option, but you may lose some of the crispness from the vegetables. If you’d like to enjoy it later, this dish freezes well too—just be sure to cool it down completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

When ready to use the frozen skillet, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. I often double the recipe to ensure I have ample servings on hand for busy weeks. Just remember that reheated vegetables can lose some of their crunch, so don't be afraid to add a fresh sprinkle of cilantro right before serving to bring back a touch of vibrancy.

Serving Suggestions

This Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet is versatile enough to be enjoyed on its own or paired with other dishes. I recommend serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to absorb the delicious juices. For a heartier version, you could also accompany it with warm tortillas or serve it alongside a refreshing avocado salad, which balances the spiciness of the jerk seasoning beautifully.

If you’re looking to elevate the dish further, consider adding toppings like crumbled feta cheese or diced avocado for creaminess. Fresh lime juice adds a zesty brightness that enhances the flavors even more. Experiment with your favorite side dishes; you might find a new favorite pairing that complements the bold flavors of the jerk chickpeas.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, just be sure to soak and cook them beforehand to ensure they are tender.

→ How spicy is the jerk seasoning?

The spiciness can vary based on the brand, so start with less and add more to taste if you're sensitive to heat.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or even in a wrap for a hearty meal.