Jamaican jerk chicken is like a warm Caribbean breeze that transports you straight to the sun-drenched shores of the island. Imagine marinating chicken in a bold mixture of spices and herbs that dance across your taste buds, combining the warmth of allspice with the fiery zest of Scotch bonnet peppers. It’s no wonder this dish is a global favorite, with its bold flavors that promise a culinary adventure. The secret to its soulful taste is in the marinade, which infuses every bite with vibrant, aromatic hues.
Originally crafted by the Maroons in Jamaica, jerk cooking is a celebration of resilience and creativity. Today, as it takes over our kitchens, people are drawn to its balance of heat and harmony of flavors. With the rise of interest in Caribbean cuisine, it’s trending for its zesty kick and health benefits, offering a low-fat, flavor-packed option for spicing up any meal.
Jamaican jerk chicken is not just a dish; it’s an experience.
So, are you ready to embrace the fiery island spirit?
Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will Too)
- The first taste took me back to my last vacation. Its vibrant flavors remind me of coastal sunsets, and I love how it transcends into my everyday meals.
- It’s my go-to for impressing guests. The melody of spices never fails to spark conversation and appeal to adventurous eaters. Plus, it’s a fun challenge to nail the perfect spice balance!
- I can customize the heat levels with ease. Some days, I’m daring; other days, I dial it back for a milder touch while retaining the authentic flavor.
- Perfect for a healthy meal! Besides being a lean protein, the use of natural spices enhances metabolism while boosting that flavorful punch without extra calories.
Recipe Card
Jamaican Jerk Chicken
Description
Jamaican jerk chicken is like a warm Caribbean breeze that transports you straight to the sun-drenched shores of the island. Imagine marinating chicken in a bold mixture of spices and herbs that dance across your taste buds, combining the warmth of allspice with the fiery zest of Scotch bonnet peppers.Ingredients for Jamaican Jerk Chicken
Marinade
Instructions for Jamaican Jerk Chicken
Marinating and Cooking
-
Prepare the Marinade
In a blender, combine allspice, thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, Scotch bonnet peppers, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and lime juice. Blend until smooth.
Ensure a smooth consistency. -
Marinate Chicken
Place the chicken in a large bowl or ziplock bag. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken and ensure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
Overnight marination is ideal. -
Preheat and Prepare to Cook
Preheat oven to 375°F. Preheat grill on medium-high.
This preheating setup is crucial. -
Grill the Chicken
Remove chicken from the marinade and place onto the grill. Cook each side for about 20 minutes, until juices run clear and the skin is crispy.
Aim for crispy skin. -
Finish in the Oven
Transfer the grilled chicken into an oven-safe dish, and roast in the oven at 375°F for an additional 15-20 minutes to ensure inside is fully cooked.
Ensure inside is fully cooked. -
Rest and Serve
Allow the chicken to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish as desired.
Resting allows juices to redistribute.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 350kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 21gg33%
- Saturated Fat 6gg30%
- Trans Fat 0gg
- Cholesterol 105mgmg35%
- Sodium 810mgmg34%
- Potassium 490mgmg15%
- Total Carbohydrate 10gg4%
- Dietary Fiber 2gg8%
- Sugars 3gg
- Protein 29gg58%
- Vitamin A 15% IU
- Vitamin C 35% mg
- Calcium 6% mg
- Iron 10% mg
- Vitamin D 0% IU
- Vitamin E 2% IU
- Vitamin K 8% mcg
- Thiamin 6% mg
- Riboflavin 10% mg
- Niacin 45% mg
- Vitamin B6 25% mg
- Folate 5% mcg
- Vitamin B12 5% mcg
- Biotin 2% mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 10% mg
- Phosphorus 25% mg
- Iodine 0% mcg
- Magnesium 12% mg
- Zinc 15% mg
- Selenium 35% mcg
- Copper 10% mg
- Manganese 10% mg
- Chromium 0% mcg
- Molybdenum 0% mcg
- Chloride 0% mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.