Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet

Name: Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3-4 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning; 1 lime, juiced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Heritage Inspiration

I absolutely love creating vibrant meals that burst with flavor, and this Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet fits the bill perfectly! The spicy, aromatic jerk seasoning pairs wonderfully with the hearty chickpeas and fresh vegetables. It's a dish that not only satisfies my taste buds but also nourishes my body. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delicious skillet that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Trust me, it will become a go-to in your kitchen!

Created by

Esmeray Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-14T08:25:35.115Z

When I first tried Jamaican Jerk seasoning, I was instantly hooked on its complexity. This recipe combines all the best flavors of jerk spice with comforting chickpeas. I found that toasting the spices briefly before mixing them into the chickpeas allows their rich aromas to bloom, creating a deliciously fragrant dish.

One fantastic tip I discovered is to add a splash of lime juice just before serving. It brightens everything up and balances the heat perfectly. This dish not only tastes wonderful, but it’s also a breeze to prepare, making it the ideal choice for busy weeknights!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant and aromatic jerk spice brings a taste of the Caribbean home.
Hearty chickpeas make this skillet filling and nutritious.
Quick to prepare, it's perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

      

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Chickpeas are the star of this dish, providing a hearty base that not only offers a satisfying texture but also packs a protein punch. They help to absorb the vibrant flavors of the Jamaican jerk seasoning, resulting in a meal that's both filling and nutritious. Make sure to use high-quality canned chickpeas or, for an extra layer of flavor, consider cooking your own from dried beans for a fresher taste.

The jerk seasoning is pivotal in this recipe, delivering complex layers of heat and aromatic spices. Ingredients like allspice, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers create that unmistakable Caribbean flavor profile. If you prefer a milder taste or need to accommodate for spice sensitivity, you can adjust the amount of seasoning accordingly or even make your own blend to suit your taste.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When sautéing the vegetables, aim for a medium heat to ensure they become tender without burning. You want them to be vibrant and glossy, which usually takes about 5 minutes. The key here is to stir occasionally and keep an eye on the onions; they should become translucent for the best flavor development.

Once you add the chickpeas and seasoning, stir well to make sure every bean is coated. By cooking for another 10 minutes on medium heat, you'll allow the chickpeas to absorb the spices thoroughly. You’ll know it's done when the chickpeas start to brown slightly and the entire mixture looks fragrant and inviting.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
3-4 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning
1 lime, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Mix all the spices and ingredients well to ensure every chickpea is coated.

Instructions

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until softened.

Add Chickpeas and Seasoning

Stir in the chickpeas and Jamaican jerk seasoning, mixing well to coat evenly.

Cook Thoroughly

Cook for another 10 minutes, allowing the chickpeas to absorb the flavors, stirring occasionally.

Finish with Lime

Remove from heat, stir in the lime juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Serve hot with rice, quinoa, or your favorite side dish.

Pro Tips

Don't hesitate to adjust the amount of jerk seasoning according to your spice preference. For a milder flavor, use less, and for a spicier dish, increase it!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet is incredibly versatile when it comes to storage. If you have leftovers, let the skillet cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a great option for meal prep throughout the week. Just gently reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

For those who like to plan ahead, you can prepare the chickpeas and chopped vegetables a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, and when you're ready to cook, combine them with the jerk seasoning for a quick and flavorful meal. This makes it even easier to whip up on a busy weeknight!

Serving Suggestions

While the skillet dish is hearty on its own, you can elevate it with a side of rice or quinoa to soak up the vibrant flavors. For a refreshing contrast, consider serving it alongside a simple salad with lime vinaigrette or some pickled vegetables to add a tangy crunch. The freshness beautifully balances the spiciness of the jerk seasoning.

Feel free to spice things up further by adding toppings such as diced avocado or slices of jalapeño. You can also serve it with warm tortillas for a fun twist, allowing everyone to create their own wraps. This adds a delightful texture and enhances the overall experience of enjoying the meal!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, just be sure to soak and cook them beforehand according to package instructions.

→ What can I add for additional protein?

You can easily add cooked chicken, tofu, or even nuts for extra protein.

→ How do I store the leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

→ Can this recipe be made vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly as written.