Spicy Jamaican Grilled Chicken Salad

Name: Spicy Jamaican Grilled Chicken Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 6 cups mixed salad greens; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 avocado, diced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: World Recipes

I absolutely love making this Spicy Jamaican Grilled Chicken Salad, especially during the warm months when fresh ingredients are at their peak. The burst of flavors from the chicken grilled marinated with Jamaican spices, combined with crisp greens and a zesty dressing, is simply irresistible. It’s a dish that not only satisfies my cravings for something spicy but also adds a colorful flair to my dining table. Perfect for a light lunch or a delicious dinner, this salad is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:50:28.938Z

When I first made this Spicy Jamaican Grilled Chicken Salad, I was amazed at how the bold spices transformed simple ingredients into something extraordinary. The marinade features a blend of jerk seasoning and fresh lime juice, infusing the chicken with deep, aromatic flavors that are incredibly satisfying. Trust me, letting the chicken marinate for at least an hour will elevate the dish immensely!

One tip I discovered is to grill the chicken on high heat for just the right amount of time to get a delicious char without overcooking it. Pairing the grilled chicken with a fresh mix of vegetables and a light vinaigrette brings a perfect balance to this salad. Each bite is a delightful experience of flavors and textures that I look forward to every time I make it.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Spicy kick that excites your taste buds
Fresh, vibrant ingredients for a light meal
Perfectly balanced flavors with every bite

      

Maximizing Flavor with Marinades

Marinating chicken is essential for infusing it with flavor, especially in this Spicy Jamaican Grilled Chicken Salad. The combination of jerk seasoning, lime juice, and olive oil not only enhances the taste but also tenderizes the meat. I recommend marinating for at least one hour, but for the best results, let it sit overnight. This will allow the spices to penetrate the chicken deeply, resulting in a juicy, flavorful bite every time.

When using jerk seasoning, consider adjusting the amount based on your personal spice tolerance. If you enjoy more heat, opt for a spicier blend or add a dash of cayenne pepper. Conversely, if you prefer a milder flavor, look for a jerk seasoning labeled as 'mild' or reduce the amount slightly. This versatility caters to various palates while maintaining the integrity of the dish.

Selecting and Preparing Fresh Ingredients

Choosing the right greens is crucial for the texture and flavor of your salad. I recommend a mix of baby spinach, arugula, and romaine for a balance of crunchy and tender leaves. Always wash and dry your greens thoroughly before combining them in the salad; excess water can make the dressing watery, diminishing the salad's vibrant flavors. A salad spinner is a great tool for this task.

Fresh ingredients will elevate your salad. When it comes to cherry tomatoes, look for those that are plump and brightly colored. Feel free to play with color; yellow or orange cherry tomatoes can add visual interest and sweetness. As for the avocado, a ripe avocado will easily yield to gentle pressure. To ensure freshness, add the avocado just before serving to maintain its creamy texture and prevent browning.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade

4 boneless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
1 tablespoon lime juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Salad

6 cups mixed salad greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Cooking Steps:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix jerk seasoning, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill to high. Once hot, place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked with a nice char. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine salad greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and cilantro. Set aside.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Salad

Toss the salad ingredients with the dressing. Top with sliced grilled chicken and serve immediately.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider adding mango slices or grilled corn to the salad. This enhances the tropical taste of the dish, making it even more refreshing.

Variations to Explore

This salad is highly adaptable. You can swap the chicken for shrimp or firm tofu, marinated in the same jerk seasoning for a different protein source. Cooking times will vary; shrimp, for instance, takes only 3-4 minutes per side on the grill, while tofu should be pressed and grilled until it’s nicely browned and heated through.

Adding seasonal fruits like mango or pineapple can introduce a tropical flair that complements the spicy kick of the chicken. These fruits can be diced and gently mixed into the salad, providing sweetness and balancing the heat. Not only does this variation enhance the flavor profile, but it also adds extra nutrients and aesthetic appeal.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

To keep this salad fresh, it’s best to store the components separately. If you have leftovers, the grilled chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For the salad greens, wash and dry them before storing to avoid sogginess. Line the container with paper towels to absorb excess moisture, which helps the greens stay crisp.

The dressing can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. If it thickens over time, simply whisk in a little water or extra olive oil to restore its consistency. This make-ahead approach not only saves time but also means you can enjoy this delicious salad any day with minimal effort.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute grilled shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

You can grill the chicken and prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time. Just add the dressing right before serving to keep the greens fresh.

→ What if I can't find jerk seasoning?

You can make your own blend using spices like allspice, thyme, cayenne pepper, and cinnamon. There are many recipes online for a homemade version!

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.