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Jamaican Jerk Chicken

Jamaican Jerk Chicken

This vibrant and flavorful dish hails from Jamaica, featuring a spicy marinade made with classic Caribbean spices. The jerk chicken is perfect for grilling, bringing a taste of the tropics to your table.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Caribbean
Servings 4 People
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 bowl for marinating
  • 1 blender or food processor
  • 1 grill or grill pan
  • 1 meat thermometer
  • 1 basting brush

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
  • 4 pieces chicken drumsticks
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tablespoon ground allspice
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 3 pieces green onions, chopped
  • 1 piece Scotch bonnet pepper, whole Adjust for spice level.
  • Juice of 1 lime

Instructions
 

  • In a blender or food processor, combine the onion, garlic, thyme, allspice, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, vegetable oil, green onions, Scotch bonnet pepper, and lime juice. Blend until smooth to create the marinade.
  • Place the chicken thighs and drumsticks in a bowl, pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for best flavor.
  • Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade, shaking off excess, and discard the leftover marinade.
  • Once the grill is hot, place the chicken pieces on it, skin side down. Grill for about 6-8 minutes, then flip and grill for an additional 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  • Remove chicken from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  • Serve with sides like rice and peas or grilled vegetables to enhance the meal.

Notes

Serve with sides like rice and peas or grilled vegetables to enhance the meal.
For a milder flavor, remove the seeds from the Scotch bonnet pepper or reduce its quantity.
This recipe can also be adapted for chicken breasts or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option.