These 25 side dishes will take your sweet and spicy chicken wings to the next level, turning them into a comfort food feast you won’t forget.
Jerk chicken is a classic Jamaican dish packed with bold, smoky, and spicy flavors. One bite, and you get the perfect blend of sweet heat and deep smokiness that makes it absolutely irresistible.
It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for backyard BBQs, picnics, or a cozy dinner any day of the week.
For those who haven’t tried it yet, jerk chicken is all about the seasoning. It’s rubbed with a mix of herbs and spices, like allspice, Scotch bonnet peppers, and thyme, then grilled to perfection. The result? Juicy, flavorful chicken with just the right amount of heat.
Now, let’s talk sides! While jerk chicken is amazing on its own, the right side dishes can balance out the flavors and complete the meal.
A sweet and spicy pairing is always a hit, so try fresh mango slices for a refreshing contrast to the smoky chicken. Grilled pineapple is another fantastic option that adds a caramelized sweetness to complement the heat.
And that’s just the start! Keep reading to discover 25 mouthwatering sides that will make your jerk chicken meal truly unforgettable!
Contents
25. Teriyaki Green Bean Mushroom – Healthy, Easy and Quick Side Dish
Green Bean Mushroom Stir-Fry is a healthy, quick, and easy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with a savory teriyaki keto-friendly sauce, this dish comes together in under 15 minutes, making it a great low-carb option for busy days.
I love green beans—they’re one of my go-to vegetables, and luckily, there are countless ways to enjoy them.
With my vegetable garden overflowing, I’m always looking for new and delicious ways to cook them—and pairing them with mushrooms is one of my favorites!
Both green beans and mushrooms are fantastic low-carb sides that complement chicken, lamb, fish, or beef beautifully. Plus, green beans are packed with fiber, folate, potassium, iron, protein, and zinc, making them a nutritional powerhouse.
They even contain catechins, the same powerful antioxidants found in green tea, which can boost heart health, support blood sugar management, and help prevent certain diseases.
If you’re looking for a versatile, flavorful, and nutrient-rich side dish, this Green Bean Mushroom Stir-Fry is a must-try!
24. Serve with Jerk Chicken Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad
This Easy Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad is the perfect refreshing and vibrant dish for summer! The combination of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and creamy mozzarella creates a beautiful balance of textures and flavors that’s both light and satisfying.
Drizzled with extra virgin olive oil, this salad is simple yet elegant, allowing the fresh ingredients to shine. It’s also incredibly versatile—serve it as a light lunch, a perfect side for Jamaican jerk chicken, or even as an appetizer at a gathering.
Whether you’re looking for a quick summer salad or an easy dish to complement your meal, this bright and flavorful salad is always a hit!
23. Rum Punch – Sweet and Vibrant Tropical Drink
Rum Punch is a deliciously sweet and colorful tropical cocktail featuring a blend of different rum varieties, pineapple juice, and orange juice. It’s a simple yet refreshing drink that’s perfect for summer but can be enjoyed any time of the year.
The origins of this classic cocktail date back to the 17th century when British East India Company sailors created it as a substitute for beer.
Over time, it made its way to Britain, where it became a popular party drink, traditionally served in large punch bowls with rum, citrus, and spices.
22. Popular in Jamaica Coco Bread
Coco Bread is a popular Caribbean staple, especially in Jamaica, where it is enjoyed in homes, bakeries, and restaurants. It is made with simple ingredients like flour and coconut milk, giving it a mild sweetness that complements its rich, buttery taste.
The texture is what makes it special—firm on the outside yet soft and fluffy on the inside, making every bite satisfying.
This bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of the day. It’s great for breakfast, served warm with butter or jam, or as part of a hearty lunch, often used to make sandwiches or as a pocket for Jamaican patties.
It also works as a delicious snack on its own or as a side to meals, pairing especially well with jerk chicken.
With its slight sweetness and soft texture, Coco Bread is both comforting and flavorful. Whether eaten on its own or alongside a savory dish, it is a simple yet delicious addition to any meal.
21. Deviled Egg Potato Salad Complement the Spicy Flavors of Jerk Chicken
Creamy, starchy potatoes provide the perfect balance to the bold, spicy flavors of jerk chicken, creating a contrast in both texture and taste. They also help mellow out the heat of the jerk sauce, making for a well-rounded meal.
This recipe is a personal favorite because it brings together the best of two summer classics—deviled eggs and potato salad.
Unlike a traditional Southern potato salad, it skips the relish and celery, making it a great option for those who prefer a simpler version.
To add a little extra depth, Old Bay seasoning takes the place of paprika, though paprika can easily be used instead for a more familiar flavor.
20. Red Beans and Rice Side for Jerk Chicken
Enjoy the deep, comforting flavors of creamy vegetarian red beans and rice, a delicious and satisfying take on the traditional dish.
The combination of smooth, velvety textures, bold spices, and a variety of vegetables makes this a hearty and flavorful meat-free option.
This dish brings all the warmth and richness of classic soul food while keeping it completely vegetarian. The slow-cooked beans soak up layers of seasoning, creating a robust taste that pairs perfectly with fluffy rice.
Whether you’re looking for a filling weeknight meal or a dish to share, this recipe delivers both comfort and flavor in every bite.
19. Foil Grilled Corn on the Cob
Foil Grilled Corn on the Cob is a quick and hassle-free summer side dish that delivers sweet, juicy corn with minimal cleanup. Seasoned to perfection and wrapped in foil, this grilling method keeps the corn tender while locking in all the delicious flavors.
Few things compare to the taste of freshly grilled corn—it’s a true summer classic. Whether served alongside jerk chicken, burgers, or just about any meal, it always makes a great addition to the table.
Grilling is my favorite way to prepare sweet corn, as it enhances the natural sweetness and allows the flavors of garlic butter to infuse every bite.
That said, when the heat gets unbearable during those sweltering South Georgia summers, I’ll occasionally boil it instead. But whenever possible, grilling is the way to go—it brings out the best in the corn and makes it absolutely irresistible!
18. Caribbean Smoked Jerk Pork with Jerk Seasoning
If you love the bold, fiery flavors of Jamaican jerk pork, this Caribbean Jerk Smoked Pork is a must-try. It delivers all the spice and smokiness you crave with a simple, foolproof method that guarantees delicious results every time.
I take a shortcut with my cheater’s Jamaican jerk seasoning, and trust me—once you try it, there’s no turning back. This recipe is incredibly easy, requiring just two ingredients, yet it never fails to impress.
The best part? This versatile seasoning works just as well on jerk chicken, making it a great go-to for adding that signature Caribbean heat and depth of flavor to your favorite dishes.
17. Jerk Chicken Rice Bowls with Wet Marinade
I’m excited to share my go-to jerk chicken recipe, the one I rely on even on the busiest nights.
This version is streamlined for maximum flavor with minimal effort, cutting the marinade time to just one hour—though if you’re meal prepping, an overnight soak works just as well.
I’ve also pared down the ingredient list while keeping the bold, authentic flavors intact.
For variety, I’ve tested this marinade with different proteins, including chicken breasts for a faster cook time and even extra-firm tofu for a delicious plant-based option.
When it’s time to serve, I like to pair the jerk chicken with brown rice, black beans, salsa, and fried plantains—a perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in every bite.
Jerk marinades can be either wet or dry, and while traditional recipes often include a long list of ingredients, this version simplifies things without sacrificing taste.
It’s a wet marinade that packs a punch with scotch bonnet (or habanero) peppers, scallions, fresh ginger, vinegar, and brown sugar.
Just toss everything into a blender or food processor, blend until smooth, and add it to a zip-top bag with the chicken quarters.
This method is my favorite way to infuse bold, delicious flavors in a short amount of time, and I can’t wait for you to try it!
16. Homemade Juicy Grilled Jerk Chicken Drumsticks with Caribbean Rice & Mango Salsa
When I was a little kid—aka a wee little nugget—my absolute favorite kind of chicken was drumsticks.
To complement the bold, smoky flavors of the chicken, you’ll serve it with coconut Caribbean brown rice, infused with a hint of lime and paired with a sweet mango salsa that you’ll be making all summer long.
I can’t get enough of this recipe. It’s perfect for parties, BBQs, or even a casual weeknight dinner. The flavors, the textures, the vibrant colors—it’s a dish that brings people together and never disappoints.
15. Jamaican Rice and Peas with Spicy Flavor
Jamaican rice and peas is a classic, flavorful dish made with rice, kidney beans, and coconut milk. It’s a staple in Jamaican cuisine, often served alongside jerk chicken or fish, but it’s just as satisfying on its own.
With its rich, creamy texture and bold spices, this dish is both filling and easy to make, making it a great option for a simple weeknight meal or a dish to feed a crowd.
If you’re looking for an authentic Jamaican rice and peas recipe, you’ve come to the right place. This version is easy to prepare and packed with aromatic, well-balanced flavors.
Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or a casual dinner, it’s a dish that always impresses.
There’s no one-size-fits-all way to make rice and peas, as every cook puts their own spin on it. However, one thing remains constant—the rice is always cooked in a flavorful, coconut-infused broth, and the peas add color, texture, and nutrition.
Just like New Orleans Red Beans and Rice or Nigerian Jollof Rice, rice and peas is a quintessential Jamaican dish. It’s the perfect side for jerk chicken, bringing together spice, warmth, and deep, savory flavors in every bite.
14. Refreshing Ginger Beer
When it comes to beverages, the perfect pairing for jerk chicken is something that balances its bold, spicy flavors with a refreshing sweetness.
One of the best options? A chilled glass of ginger beer—its zippy, slightly spicy kick complements the heat of the jerk seasoning beautifully.
Looking to take it up a notch? Add a splash of dark rum for an extra layer of warmth and complexity, turning your drink into a simple yet exciting cocktail.
Ginger has been valued for centuries for its refreshing taste and medicinal properties.
As early as 500 BC, this native plant of China and India was used in cooking, medicine, and flavoring. In much of the Western world, ginger became particularly popular for spicing up drinks.
By the Victorian era, beer was the drink of choice in England, with herbal and spiced low-alcohol “small” beers, including ginger beer, gaining widespread popularity.
Today, this spicy-sweet beverage remains a favorite, making it an ideal companion to a fiery plate of jerk chicken.
13. Tamarind – Classic Caribbean Snack
Tamarind balls are a classic Jamaican snack, making them a fitting and flavorful appetizer. These sweet and tangy treats offer a unique burst of flavor that’s the perfect way to start a meal.
Made from the tamarind fruit, which grows in Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean, these treats are both simple and delicious. The fruit is de-shelled and shaped into a ball, often with the seeds still inside.
While the traditional version is naturally sweet and tart, some people enhance the flavor by adding rum, black pepper, sauce, or extra sugar for a more intense taste.
Whether enjoyed plain or with added spices, tamarind balls are a delightful combination of bold flavors with a chewy texture that makes them truly irresistible.
12. Try to Make Beans, Rice, Collard, Plantain Bowl
Now is the perfect time to put those beautiful black beans to use in this easy, 10-ingredient Roasted Plantain Black Bean Bowl!
To take it to the next level, season everything with fresh cilantro, zesty lime, and warm cumin for a dish that’s both vibrant and comforting.
Whether served alongside jerk chicken or enjoyed on its own, this bowl is a hearty, wholesome, and delicious way to bring Caribbean flavors together!
11. Maque Choux flavored with Bell Peppers, Jalapeno, Bacon, and Heavy Cream
Wait, Maque Choux? Don’t let the name throw you off—this dish is packed with familiar, comforting flavors that pair beautifully with jerk chicken.
It’s a Southern Louisiana classic made with sweet corn, bell peppers, jalapeños, bacon, and heavy cream. Sounds amazing, right? The combination of rich, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors makes it an irresistible side dish.
Even though Maque Choux isn’t from the Caribbean, that doesn’t mean it can’t hold its own alongside jerk chicken.
The creamy, slightly sweet corn balances the bold, fiery heat of the jerk seasoning, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. If you’re looking for something unique yet familiar, this dish is a must-try!
10. Collard Greens to pair with Jerk Chicken
If you’re looking for the best greens to pair with those bold Caribbean flavors, collard greens are the way to go.
Why collards? Unlike most greens, they have a perfect balance of subtle saltiness, savory depth, and a hint of natural sweetness, which blends beautifully with the spicy, smoky heat of jerk chicken.
The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make! Just toss them into an Instant Pot, and let it handle the rest. In no time, you’ll have tender, flavorful collard greens that round out your meal with a delicious Southern-Caribbean twist!
9. Savory & Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potatoes are already a perfect match for jerk chicken, but why not take them to the next level by frying them to a perfect crisp?
Sweet potato fries offer an irresistible combination of sweet, savory, and crispy goodness—a flavor and texture pairing that complements the bold, smoky heat of jerk chicken beautifully.
The contrast between the spicy chicken and caramelized sweetness of the fries makes every bite even more satisfying.
And here’s the best part—you don’t have to deep-fry them! Instead, these fries are baked to crispy perfection, so you can enjoy all the flavor without the guilt. A healthier take on a classic side dish, and just as delicious!
8. Sweet Potatoes for Jerk Spice Chicken
As we’ve already mentioned, sweet and spicy are a match made in heaven—which is exactly why sweet potatoes pair so perfectly with jerk chicken.
So, how should you prepare them? Since mashed potatoes always complement crispy, flavorful dishes, why not switch things up with mashed sweet potatoes?
The combination of jerk chicken’s bold, smoky heat and the rich, velvety sweetness of mashed sweet potatoes creates an explosion of flavors in every bite.
And let’s not forget the visual appeal—the vibrant golden mash alongside the deep, earthy tones of the chicken makes for an Instagram-worthy plate that’s just as stunning as it is delicious!
7. Chunky and Creamy Potato Salad
While mashed potatoes may get all the attention, let’s not overlook how chunky, creamy potato salad can be just as satisfying—if not better!
This classic side dish is sweet, rich, and incredibly smooth, with a flavor that pairs perfectly with just about anything. But why stop there? Add bacon, corn, and onion for an extra savory, smoky, and crunchy twist that takes it to the next level.
So, what are we waiting for? Let’s whip up a delicious batch of potato salad together!
6. Roasted Potatoes with Garlic
Imagine digging into smoky Jamaican jerk chicken alongside Hasselback baby potatoes, roasted to perfection with garlic and butter.
Sounds heavenly, right? The crispy edges, tender insides, and rich, buttery flavor make these potatoes the ultimate side dish.
The best part? You can customize the seasoning however you like! Use what’s in your spice cupboard or fresh herbs from your garden to make it your own.
This pairing works beautifully because both dishes share bold garlic flavors, creating a cohesive, mouthwatering meal. And let’s not forget how stunning they look together—golden, crispy potatoes next to deep, spice-rubbed jerk chicken.
Now that’s a picture-perfect plate!
5. Make Rice and Beans for Spicy Jerk Chicken
Red beans and rice offer a perfect balance of subtle sweetness and savory richness, making them an ideal pairing for the bold heat of jerk chicken.
If you’re not a fan of overly spicy food, this dish is just what you need to mellow out the intensity while still enjoying all the flavors.
With Scotch bonnet peppers packing serious heat, you’ll want something to soften the spice without taking away from the dish’s boldness.
While you can’t completely eliminate the kick of jerk chicken, red beans and rice help tone it down, creating a more balanced and enjoyable meal.
And let’s not forget—it’s not just about contrast. This dish is delicious in its own right, bringing heartiness, comfort, and incredible flavor to the table!
4. Fluffy Coconut Rice
For years, I struggled to get fluffy coconut rice just right—until I finally cracked the secret! The trick? Baking it in the oven instead of cooking it on the stovetop.
This method ensures the rice turns out perfectly light and fluffy, without any of that gluey or mushy texture. It’s just like the kind you’d find at your favorite restaurant.
Coconut milk gives the rice a subtle sweetness and creamy richness, enhancing the flavors of any dish it’s paired with. If you’re looking to bring even more Caribbean flair to your meal, this is the perfect side dish to make it happen!
3. Sweet, Crunchy, and Juicy Grilled Pineapple
Just thinking about perfectly charred and caramelized pineapple is enough to make my mouth water! The sweet and tangy flavors of grilled pineapple create a beautiful contrast to the bold heat and spices of jerk chicken, making it the perfect pairing.
To make it, simply coat pineapple slices in a buttery brown sugar glaze, then throw them on the grill. The heat intensifies the natural sweetness, creating juicy, caramelized bites with a slightly crispy edge.
The result? A smoky, sweet, and refreshing side that balances out the spice of your meal flawlessly.
2. Fresh and Delicious Mango Salsa
This simple 5-ingredient mango salsa comes together in minutes and delivers an explosion of fresh, vibrant flavors in every bite.
While ripe mango slices alone are a great match for jerk chicken, turning them into mango salsa takes things to a whole new level.
Alongside the sweet mango, you’ll get the creamy richness of avocado, the spicy kick of jalapeño, and the bright, herby freshness of cilantro.
A squeeze of lime juice and a dash of cumin bring everything together, creating a light, refreshing, and flavor-packed dish that pairs beautifully with spicy, smoky meals.
1. Thick and Tender Plantains
Plantains, the less sweet cousin of bananas, have a soft, creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the crispy, bold flavors of Jamaican jerk chicken.
Whether sautéed or deep-fried, they develop a rich, caramelized sweetness that makes them the perfect side dish.
Unlike plantain chips or tostones, which are thin and crispy, baked or “oven-fried” plantains are thicker and tender.
They have a naturally sweet flavor that enhances any meal, and they’re just as delicious on their own as they are dipped into flavorful sauces.
Whether you serve them as a sweet contrast to spicy jerk chicken or enjoy them as a snack, plantains always bring a tropical, comforting touch to the table.
25 Delicious Sides to Serve with Jerk Chicken: Caribbean Favorites
Discover 25 flavorful sides for Jamaican jerk chicken that perfectly complement the spicy jerk seasoning. From Caribbean rice to mango salsa, elevate your summer BBQ!
Ingredients
- Teriyaki Green Bean Mushroom
- Tomato Cucumber Mozzarella Salad
- Rum Punch
- Popular in Jamaica Coco Bread
- Deviled Egg Potato Salad
- Red Beans and Rice
- Foil Grilled Corn on the Cob
- Caribbean Smoked Jerk Pork with Jerk Seasoning
- Jerk Chicken Rice Bowls with Wet Marinade
- Juicy Grilled Jerk Chicken Drumsticks with Caribbean Rice & Mango Salsa
- Jamaican Rice and Peas with Spicy Flavor
- Ginger Beer
- Tamarind
- Beans, Rice, Collard, Plantain Bowl
- Maque Choux
- Collard Greens
- Sweet Potato Fries
- Sweet Potatoes
- Potato Salad
- Roasted Potatoes
- Rice and Beans
- Coconut Rice
- Grilled Pineapple
- Mango Salsa
- Plantains
Instructions
- Choose any Sides to Serve with Jerk Chicken from the post that you like
- Click on the link below the photo to get the full recipes and instructions.
- Try the best Sides to Serve with Jerk Chicken and share your photo under my pin on Pinterest!
I’m Anastasia and I’m a full-time blogger, online entrepreneur, and Pinterest marketing strategist. I help digital entrepreneurs and bloggers drive targeted traffic from Pinterest either through my online courses or through Pinterest consultancy.