Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet

Name: Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Fusion Meals

I absolutely love cooking with bold flavors, and this Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet has become one of my go-to dishes. The vibrant spices transport my taste buds straight to the Caribbean, while the hearty chickpeas provide the perfect protein-packed base. It's incredibly easy to make, and I can whip it up in just about 30 minutes on a busy weeknight. Whether I’m cooking for myself or hosting friends, this skillet meal delivers a delightful combination of warmth and spice that always leaves everyone asking for the recipe.

Created by

Honor Blackwell

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:05:35.932Z

This Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet is a dish that combines my love for chickpeas with the bold, fiery flavors of jerk seasoning. My personal tip is to marinate the chickpeas for just a bit before cooking to really infuse the spices into every bite. The result is a dish where the chickpeas absorb all that delightful heat and aroma, creating a rich flavor experience.

One of the best parts of this recipe is how versatile it is. I often serve it with a side of coconut rice or even on top of a salad for added freshness. The balance of spices, heat, and fresh herbs makes this meal a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The vibrant spices create an unforgettable flavor experience
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
Healthy and plant-based, perfect for various dietary preferences

      

Key Techniques for Perfectly Spiced Chickpeas

To ensure your chickpeas are flavorful, a crucial step is allowing them to marinate with the Jamaican jerk seasoning. When mixed in a bowl, let them rest for at least 10 minutes. This waiting period allows the spices to penetrate into the chickpeas, enhancing their flavor profile dramatically. If you're short on time, even just five minutes can provide some flavor, but longer is better for a richer experience.

Another tip is to ensure your skillet is adequately heated before you add the chickpeas. Sautéing on medium heat (about 350°F) helps to create a lovely golden-brown surface on the chickpeas. The additional texture adds depth to the dish, contrasting nicely with the softness from the sautéed vegetables. This step will prevent the chickpeas from becoming mushy, allowing for a satisfying bite.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

The use of Jamaican jerk seasoning is essential here; it brings that iconic Caribbean flavor. However, if you don't have access to this spice blend, you can create a homemade version using a mix of allspice, thyme, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Aim for a tablespoon of each to achieve a balanced taste. This allows you to customize the heat level too; add cayenne pepper for more spice or reduce it for a milder dish.

For a colorful and nutrient-packed option, consider adding more vegetables. Zucchini, corn, or diced tomatoes would work beautifully alongside the bell pepper and onion. Not only do these ingredients complement the chickpeas, but they also add varying textures and a pop of color to your skillet, making it as visually appealing as it is tasty.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

For the Skillet

1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to adjust the spices according to your heat tolerance!

Instructions

Following these steps will help you achieve the best results.

Prepare the Chickpeas

In a mixing bowl, combine the drained chickpeas with Jamaican jerk seasoning and a pinch of salt. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper, sautéing until they soften (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Cook the Chickpeas

Add the seasoned chickpeas to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir well and cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Serve and Garnish

Serve the skillet warm, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy your delicious Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet!

This meal pairs wonderfully with rice or a fresh green salad.

Pro Tips

Experiment with adding vegetables like zucchini or corn for added texture and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

This Jamaican Jerk Spiced Chickpea Skillet is incredibly versatile. Pair it with fluffy rice or quinoa for a complete meal, or serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices. If you want to elevate it further, a spoonful of avocado or a dollop of sour cream provides a creamy contrast that balances the spices beautifully.

For a fun presentation, try serving the dish in bowls topped with fresh lime wedges so that guests can squeeze a bit of citrus over their servings. This addition not only enhances the flavor but also adds a refreshing touch that complements the warm spices.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're meal prepping, this skillet is perfect for making ahead of time. Cook the chickpeas according to the recipe, allow them to cool, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating is as simple as placing the skillet back on medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chickpea medley. Portion it into freezer-safe bags and flatten them for easy stacking. It can be frozen for up to a month. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove for a quick and satisfying meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead?

Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand before following the recipe.

→ Is this dish spicy?

The heat depends on the jerk seasoning used; you can adjust it based on your preference.

→ Can I make this vegan?

This recipe is already vegan-friendly, as it doesn't use any animal products.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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