Easy Jerk Chicken, Pasta Salad & Stir-Fry Vegetable Meal You Can Make at Home

If you're craving the bold, unforgettable flavours of Jamaica, you're in the right place. At Jamaican Cooking Experience, I don’t just share recipes;  I bring the heart of Jamaica right into your kitchen. But if you want to get a little taste before booking your experience, here’s a full meal you can make at home: juicy jerk chicken, fresh pasta salad, and vibrant stir-fry vegetables.

Whether you’re in Kitchener, Milton, or anywhere in the surrounding areas, you can bring these authentic flavours to your table today!

What Makes Jerk Chicken Special?

Jerk chicken is Jamaica’s most iconic dish, known for its perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and bold seasoning. The unique combination of Scotch bonnet peppers, pimento (allspice), thyme, and lime creates an explosion of flavours that’s simply unforgettable.

At Jamaican Cooking Experience, I don’t just share recipes. I bring you into the tradition, whether through my hands-on private cooking sessions or my full-service catering options for your events.

But today, here’s a little taste of what you can expect:

Authentic Jamaican Jerk Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks

• 2 tbsp ground allspice (pimento)

• 1 tbsp dried thyme (or 3 sprigs fresh)

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tsp nutmeg

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 2 tsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (or habanero for milder heat)

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 3 scallions (green onions), chopped

• 1 tbsp grated ginger (optional)

• Juice of 1 lime

• Grace Jerk Season ( Sold in the international section at Walmart and No Frills)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare marinade: Blend all ingredients (except chicken) until smooth.

2. Marinate chicken: Coat chicken in marinade. Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.

3. Cook:

   • Grill: 35-45 minutes on medium heat, turning occasionally.

   • Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes. Broil briefly to char.

Easy Jamaican-Inspired Pasta Salad

Ingredients:

• 3 cups rotini pasta

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ cup chopped red and yellow bell peppers

• ½ cup sliced green olives (optional)

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lime juice

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta, drain, and cool.

2. Toss with dressing, vegetables, and cheese.

3. Chill for 30 minutes before serving.

Quick Stir-Fry Vegetables

Ingredients:

• 1 cup broccoli florets

• 1 cup snap peas

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 carrot, thinly sliced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 clove grated garlic.

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil, stir-fry grated garlic and vegetables for 3-5 minutes.

2. Add Salt and Pepper to taste.

3. Serve warm.

Jamaican Cooking Experience: Private Cooking Classes & Full-Service Catering

Whether you want to learn how to cook authentic Jamaican food or simply enjoy it with your guests, I’ve got you covered:

Private Cooking Experience

• I bring all the ingredients

• Step-by-step, hands-on instruction

• Fun, relaxed atmosphere

• Learn authentic techniques and stories

• Perfect for date nights, small groups, families, or team-building

Catering Services

• Full-service catering for private parties, weddings, birthdays, showers, or corporate events

• Authentic Jamaican menus customized to your event

• Fresh, vibrant flavours prepared with love

• Stress-free service so you can enjoy your guests

Let us handle the cooking while you enjoy the experience.

📍 Areas We Serve:

• Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, Milton, Brantford, Burlington, Oakville, Mississauga, Brampton, Hamilton, Toronto

Ready to Taste the Island? Book Now!

Whether you're looking for a private cooking class or full-service Jamaican catering, Jamaican Cooking Experience brings authentic island flavours right to your home or event.

Spots fill up quickly. Click here to reserve your date now!