Grilled Jerk Prawn Skewers – The Ultimate Summer BBQ Recipe (revised)

Originally published on November 27, 2020

Looking for the ultimate summer seafood recipe? These easy jerk prawn skewers are smoky, juicy, and packed with bold Caribbean flavor. Made with succulent prawns, fragrant Jamaican jerk seasoning, and a buttery finish, they’re perfect for backyard BBQs, cookouts, beach days, and easy weeknight dinners.

One bite of these grilled jerk prawns and you’ll understand why they’re a summer favorite. The natural sweetness of the prawns pairs beautifully with the warm spices, herbs, and gentle heat of jerk seasoning. As they cook on the grill, the edges caramelize slightly, creating irresistible smoky flavor in every bite.

The best part? These jerk shrimp skewers come together in under 15 minutes, making them one of my favorite recipes when I want something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re hosting friends, planning a family barbecue, or simply looking for a healthy high-protein dinner, these Caribbean-inspired prawn skewers never disappoint.

Why You’ll Love These Jerk Prawn Skewers

• Ready in less than 15 minutes
• Perfect for summer grilling season
• Naturally high in protein
• Great for entertaining
• Easy to customize with pineapple and vegetables
• Full of bold Caribbean flavor
• Beginner-friendly recipe

According to the FDA, shrimp and prawns are an excellent source of lean protein and important nutrients, making them a great addition to a balanced diet. Be sure to choose high-quality seafood and handle it safely before cooking.

What Is Jamaican Jerk Seasoning?

Jerk seasoning is one of the most iconic flavor profiles in Caribbean cuisine, particularly in Jamaica. Traditionally made with ingredients such as allspice, thyme, garlic, ginger, scallions, and hot peppers, jerk seasoning delivers a delicious balance of heat, smokiness, sweetness, and earthiness.

The seasoning has deep cultural roots in Jamaica and has been used for generations to flavor grilled meats and seafood. Learning about the history behind jerk cooking makes every bite even more meaningful.

If you’re interested in learning more, Jamaican Kitchen has an excellent article on the history and origins of Jamaican jerk seasoning.

Prawns vs Shrimp: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve ever wondered whether prawns and shrimp are the same thing, you’re not alone. While they are technically different species, they taste very similar and can often be used interchangeably in recipes.

For this recipe, either large shrimp or prawns will work beautifully. Just make sure they are peeled, deveined, and thoroughly patted dry before seasoning.

Where did I buy my jumbo prawns from?

I got these jumbo prawns for my local wholesale store. The quantity for the price was a great deal. Not to mention that we aren’t “in-season” to get fresh ones. Seafood in general tends to be more expensive than other proteins. Hence, you will get more bang for your buck in your buy yours from a wholesaler. However, you might give up a little on the quality.

Tips for Perfect Grilled Jerk Prawns

A few simple tips can make all the difference:

• Soak wooden skewers for at least 20 minutes before grilling.
• Leave a small gap between each prawn so heat can circulate evenly.
• Grill for only 2–3 minutes per side to prevent overcooking.
• Use two skewers instead of one to keep the prawns from spinning.
• Finish with garlic butter and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
• Avoid overcrowding the grill for better caramelization.

For food safety, the USDA recommends cooking shrimp and other seafood until the flesh becomes opaque and reaches the proper safe internal temperature.

What to Serve With Jerk Prawn Skewers

These flavorful grilled prawns pair wonderfully with a variety of summer sides.

Serve them with:

• Coconut rice
• Mango avocado salsa
• Grilled corn on the cob
• Sweet potato fries
• Pineapple slaw
• Fresh garden salad

For a complete summer menu, serve these skewers with my refreshing cold zucchini soup and homemade African coleslaw.

And if you’re firing up the grill anyway, you’ll also enjoy my grilled chicken recipes.

To finish the meal on a sweet note, serve a batch of my spongy madeleines alongside fresh fruit or iced coffee.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These jerk prawn skewers are ideal for meal prep and entertaining.

• Marinate the prawns up to 24 hours in advance.
• Store uncooked marinated prawns in the refrigerator until ready to grill.
• Leftover cooked prawns can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently to prevent them from becoming rubbery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these jerk prawn skewers ahead of time?

Yes. Marinate the prawns up to 24 hours before grilling for even more flavor.

Can I cook them in an air fryer?

Absolutely. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning to ensure proper browning.

How do I know when prawns are done cooking?

The prawns will turn pink and opaque and curl into a loose “C” shape. Overcooked prawns tend to curl tightly and become chewy.

Can I make these less spicy?

Of course. Simply reduce the amount of jerk seasoning or choose a mild jerk blend.

Final Thoughts

These easy jerk prawn skewers are everything you want in a summer grilling recipe: quick, flavorful, healthy, and guaranteed to impress. The smoky grill flavor combined with the bold Caribbean spices creates a dish that’s perfect for cookouts, family dinners, and outdoor gatherings all season long.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Leave a comment below and let me know your favorite side dish to serve with these delicious grilled jerk prawns!

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