Slow Cooker Jerk Chicken with Mango Salsa
Slow Cooker Jerk Chicken with Mango Salsa is a vibrant and tropical dish featuring tender, juicy chicken infused with authentic Caribbean jerk spices, slow-cooked to perfection. Paired with a fresh mango salsa, this recipe offers a perfect balance of bold heat and refreshing sweetness, ideal for effortless, flavorful meals any day of the week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes to overnight marinating)
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes (excluding marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Caribbean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp jerk seasoning blend (allspice, thyme, cayenne, cinnamon, garlic, etc.)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Mango Salsa
- 2 cups fresh ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Jerk Marinade: In a bowl, combine the jerk seasoning, minced garlic, grated ginger, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a thick, fragrant marinade that will evenly coat the chicken thighs.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the boneless chicken thighs in a large bowl or ziplock bag. Pour the jerk marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is fully coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or ideally overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor infusion.
- Cook in the Slow Cooker: Transfer the marinated chicken to the slow cooker. Set to low and cook for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully infused with spices. This method locks in moisture for juicy results.
- Prepare the Mango Salsa: While the chicken cooks, peel and dice the mango into small cubes. Finely chop the red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro. Combine all in a bowl with fresh lime juice, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground pepper. Mix well to create a fresh, vibrant salsa.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the chicken is cooked, scoop portions onto plates and serve with a generous helping of mango salsa on top or on the side. Garnish with additional cilantro or lime wedges if desired.
Notes
- Marinate overnight to intensify flavors.
- Use chicken thighs for juiciness and tenderness preferred in slow cooking.
- Adjust spice levels by varying the amount of cayenne or adding Scotch bonnet peppers.
- Prepare mango salsa fresh right before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
- Do not overcrowd the slow cooker; arrange chicken pieces in a single layer for even cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: jerk chicken, slow cooker recipes, Caribbean chicken, mango salsa, easy dinner, tropical dishes, gluten free, slow cooker chicken
