Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet

Name: Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can diced tomatoes; Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: World Recipes

I absolutely love how vibrant and bursting with flavor this Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet is. The combination of bold spices and tender chickpeas creates a dish that's not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Whenever I make this skillet, the aromas fill my kitchen, and I can't help but feel a sense of adventure as I savor every spicy bite. It's perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing friends at gatherings, and I know it will quickly become one of your favorites too!

Created by

Cressida Northwood

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:21:37.993Z

When I first discovered the wonderful world of Jamaican spices, I was instantly captivated by the depth of flavor they brought to dishes. One evening, I decided to combine my love for chickpeas with these lively spices, creating a skillet meal that truly embodies the spirit of the Caribbean. I used a variety of spices to achieve that authentic jerk flavor, and the result was nothing short of magical.

To make this dish even more special, I recommend letting the chickpeas simmer with the jerk seasoning for a few minutes. This allows the spices to release their essential oils, ensuring every bite is a delightful explosion of taste. Pair this skillet with rice or quinoa, and you’ve got a wholesome meal that will impress anyone who tries it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bold and aromatic jerk spice blend that energizes the palate
Nutritious chickpeas packed with protein and fiber
Quick and versatile, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep

Understanding Jamaican Jerk Spices

The essence of this dish lies in Jamaican jerk seasoning, a vibrant blend often featuring allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers. Each spice plays a crucial role in creating that signature flavor profile. The allspice adds warmth and depth, while thyme contributes herbal notes that balance the spice’s heat. If you're sensitive to heat, consider adjusting the amount of jerk seasoning or selecting a milder blend to taste, as this dish can vary in spiciness depending on the brand used.

Jerk seasoning not only flavors the chickpeas but also helps tenderize them, infusing them with a fascinating layer of taste. During the cooking process, the spices release their essential oils, bringing out complex flavors that elevate this dish. To truly enjoy this, I recommend toasting the seasoning briefly in the skillet during the adding stage. Doing so can enhance the aromas even more and help release those oil compounds, creating a more fragrant dish.

Chickpeas: A Protein Powerhouse

Chickpeas are not just filler for this dish; they provide a hearty source of protein and fiber. This makes it an excellent option for vegetarians and vegans looking for a satisfying meal. Keep in mind that dried chickpeas require soaking and longer cooking times, while canned chickpeas offer convenience. If you opt for dried, soak them overnight, and ensure they’re cooked until tender before incorporating them into this recipe. You can expect about 2-3 cups of cooked chickpeas for using in this dish.

Beyond their nutritional benefits, chickpeas absorb flavors beautifully. Their mildly nutty taste acts as a perfect canvas for the bold jerk seasoning. To give your dish an extra kick, consider adding a splash of lime juice at the end to brighten up the flavors. If you're interested in enhancing the dish further, tossing in some chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of simmering can add both color and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serving this Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet over rice or quinoa not only provides a nutritious base but also balances the bold flavors of the dish. For a twist, try coconut rice, which complements the spiciness with its creamy, tropical flavor. Adding avocado slices on the side can offer a cool contrast to enhance the overall experience. If you’re feeling adventurous, serve it alongside fried plantains for a Caribbean-inspired feast.

If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, it stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days. Simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. You can also freeze leftovers for later enjoyment, but note that the texture of chickpeas may change slightly. I find that the flavors develop even more after a day, making this dish just as delightful for meal prep as it is freshly made.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this flavorful dish.

Ingredients

2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go for easy cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet.

Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and diced red bell pepper, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

Add Chickpeas and Spice

Stir in the chickpeas and Jamaican jerk seasoning, combining everything well. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the spices to toast slightly.

Simmer with Tomatoes

Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (with juice) and season with salt. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Serve

Once ready, remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve warm with rice or quinoa.

This dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or a splash of lime juice before serving.

Storage Tips

To maximize the shelf life, allow the Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. This will prevent moisture from accumulating, which could lead to mold. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider dividing the dish into individual portions to make reheating easier and to avoid unnecessary exposure to air.

When reheating, I recommend doing so on a stovetop over low heat, stirring regularly. This method helps maintain the dish's texture, making it creamy rather than dry. If you notice it’s thickening too much, simply add a spoonful of water or vegetable broth to loosen it up. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Dietary Substitutions

This recipe is easily adaptable for various dietary preferences. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, rest assured that all the ingredients used, including the jerk seasoning, are gluten-free when sourced carefully. For those on a lower-carb diet, consider replacing the chickpeas with a lower-carb legume or even cauliflower for a similar consistency without the added carbohydrates.

If you're allergic to chickpeas or prefer a different protein source, lentils are a fantastic alternative. Opt for red or green lentils, which cook quickly and absorb flavors well, just like chickpeas. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly, ensuring they’re tender but not mushy, typically around 15-20 minutes after adding them to the skillet.

Enhancing Flavor and Texture

To elevate the flavor and texture of your dish further, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika during the spice addition stage. This can introduce a subtle smokiness that complements the jerk spices beautifully. Topping the skillet with a handful of toasted pumpkin seeds before serving can add delightful crunch and additional nutrients.

For an extra layer of flavor, I often like to add a splash of soy sauce or tamari while simmering the dish. It deepens the savory notes and creates a more umami-rich experience. Remember, the key is to taste as you go, adjusting the spices to find that perfect balance of heat and flavor that you enjoy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just soak and cook them beforehand, then follow the recipe as normal.

→ What can I substitute for Jamaican jerk seasoning?

If you can't find jerk seasoning, you can make your own blend using allspice, thyme, cinnamon, and chili powder.

→ Can I add more vegetables to this skillet?

Yes! Feel free to add any veggies you have on hand, like spinach, zucchini, or carrots.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.