Rasta Pasta Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with the bold, vibrant flavors of this Rasta Pasta Recipe! Creamy, spicy, and packed with perfectly seasoned jerk chicken, this dish is a beautiful fusion of Caribbean heat and comforting Italian pasta.

Colorful bell peppers add a sweet, crunchy bite, while a velvety sauce ties everything together for a meal that's both festive and outrageously delicious.

This is a must-try if you crave big flavors with minimal fuss! Perfect for a fun weeknight dinner, meal prep, or even impressing guests at your next gathering. Inspired by the Caribbean classic, it's been a personal favorite in my kitchen for years.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and spicy, with the perfect kick from jerk seasoning
• Ready in under an hour—easy enough for busy weeknights
• Packed with protein and colorful veggies for a balanced meal
• Customizable for chicken, shrimp, or a vegetarian twist

Key Ingredients for Rasta Pasta Recipe

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Jerk Seasoning

Jerk seasoning is the heart of this recipe, infusing the chicken and sauce with smoky, spicy, aromatic Caribbean flavor. Use a store-bought blend for convenience, or make your own if you love extra freshness and control. Adjust the amount for more or less heat, and if you’re out of jerk, Cajun seasoning can work in a pinch (though it’ll taste a bit different).

Bell Peppers

Red, yellow, and green bell peppers make this pasta visually stunning and add sweet, juicy crunch. Slice them thin for quick, even cooking. Feel free to use whatever colors you have; orange works too! For extra heat, toss in a jalapeño or Scotch bonnet (if you dare).

Chicken Breast

Tender chicken breast soaks up all those jerk flavors and adds hearty protein. Slice thin for fast cooking and juicy results. You can easily substitute boneless, skinless thighs, or swap for shrimp, tofu, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

Heavy Cream

Heavy cream brings the rich, silky smoothness that binds this pasta together. If you want to lighten things up, use half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free, tropical vibe. Just note: coconut milk will add a subtle sweetness and a hint of coconut flavor.

Parmesan Cheese

A generous handful of freshly grated Parmesan melts into the sauce, adding a savory, nutty finish that ties every bite together. Pre-shredded cheese works in a pinch, but grating your own gives the best melt and flavor. Nutritional yeast is a great vegan alternative.

Instructions for Rasta Pasta Recipe

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-11 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Season and Sear the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, toss the chicken strips with jerk seasoning and a pinch of salt. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Peppers and Garlic

Add remaining olive oil to the same skillet. Add sliced bell peppers and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until just softened but still crisp. Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce heat to medium low. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir and let simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Add Cheese and Combine

Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the cooked pasta and jerk chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce seems too thick.

Finish and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat, sprinkle with green onions and fresh parsley. Serve hot, and enjoy that creamy, spicy, colorful goodness!

Recipe Variations

Vegetarian Rasta Pasta

Skip the chicken and double up on colorful veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or even roasted chickpeas for a protein boost. The sauce is just as creamy and flavorful without the meat!

Shrimp Rasta Pasta

Swap the chicken for peeled shrimp. Season with jerk and sauté until just pink—about 2-3 minutes per side. The result is a seafood twist that's just as irresistible.

Dairy-Free Caribbean Vibes

Use coconut milk in place of cream and a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for the sauce. The coconut adds a lovely tropical flair and keeps things friendly for dairy-free eaters.

Make It Extra Spicy

Dial up the heat with extra jerk seasoning, chopped Scotch bonnet, or a pinch of cayenne in the sauce. Taste as you go so it’s just right for your spice level!

Gluten-Free Option

Substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and confirm your jerk seasoning is gluten-free. The sauce and veggies are naturally GF, so you won’t miss a thing.

Serving Suggestions

Rasta Pasta is a meal on its own, but it’s even better paired with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or sweet fried plantains on the side. For a true Caribbean feast, garnish with extra green onions, parsley, or a squeeze of fresh lime.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to keep the sauce creamy. Freezing isn’t recommended, as the sauce can separate, but you can prep components (like the chicken and peppers) ahead for quicker assembly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rasta Pasta Recipe (FAQ)

Q: Can I make Rasta Pasta ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prep the chicken and chop veggies in advance, then cook and toss everything together just before serving for the best texture.

Q: What type of jerk seasoning should I use?
A: Use your favorite store-bought jerk seasoning, or homemade if you like customizing the spice. Adjust to taste—jerk blends can vary in heat.

Q: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A: Absolutely! Penne is classic, but rotini, rigatoni, or even fettuccine work well and hold the creamy sauce beautifully.

Craving bold flavors and a splash of color in your dinner rotation? This Rasta Pasta Recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try, let your tastebuds take a tropical trip, and don’t forget to leave a comment or rating—I love hearing how it turns out for you!