Description
Indulge in the bold flavors of Authentic Caribbean Jerk Chicken with this amazing ultimate recipe. A delicious blend of spices and seasonings creates a mouthwatering marinade that elevates the juicy chicken to a whole new level. Perfect for grilling or baking, this dish is a must-try for anyone craving a taste of the Caribbean.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Jerk Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons allspice
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (or habanero), seeded for less heat
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon white or apple cider vinegar
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or a mix of thighs and drumsticks)
Instructions
- Prepare the Jerk Marinade: In a food processor or blender, combine olive oil, brown sugar, allspice, thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, black pepper, garlic, onion, green onions, Scotch bonnet, ginger, soy sauce, lime juice, and vinegar. Blend until a thick, chunky marinade forms.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a large resealable bag or bowl and pour the jerk marinade over it, ensuring the chicken is well coated. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat a grill to medium-high heat or oven to 400°F/200°C. Grill the chicken skin-side down for 6–8 minutes, then flip and grill for another 6–8 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If baking, bake for 35–40 minutes, then broil for 2–3 minutes to crisp the skin.
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with rice and peas, fried plantains, or grilled pineapple.
Notes
- Scotch bonnet peppers are traditional and authentic—use gloves when handling and adjust amount to heat preference.
- You can also use boneless chicken, but reduce cooking time accordingly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Baking
- Cuisine: Caribbean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
