Jamaican Jerk Chicken Recipe
This authentic Jamaican Jerk Chicken recipe features a vibrant, spicy marinade made from Scotch bonnet peppers, aromatic spices, and fresh citrus juices. Marinated to perfection and grilled or baked until juicy and flavorful, this dish captures the bold and smoky essence of Caribbean cuisine.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes (grilling) or 40 minutes (baking)
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including minimum marinating time)
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Jamaican
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 whole chicken (cut up, or use your favorite cuts)
For the Marinade
- 4-6 Scotch Bonnet peppers, chopped
- 1 small red onion, chopped
- 4-6 garlic cloves, chopped
- 4 stalks scallions, ends trimmed
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup vinegar (white vinegar or apple cider vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice from 1 large orange (about ¾ cup orange juice)
- Juice from half a lime (lime juice)
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if available)
- Salt and pepper to taste (about 1 teaspoon salt and 1 tablespoon black pepper)
Instructions
- Make the Marinade: Add all marinade ingredients—Scotch bonnet peppers, red onion, garlic, scallions, soy sauce, vinegar, olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, ginger, brown sugar, nutmeg, allspice, cinnamon, thyme, salt, and pepper—into a food processor or blender and process until smooth.
- Prepare the Chicken: Poke holes in the chicken pieces with a knife to help the marinade penetrate deeply. Place the chicken in a large bowl or sealable baggie.
- Marinate the Chicken: Pour the marinade over the chicken and rub it thoroughly to coat all pieces. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor. Discard any leftover marinade after marinating.
- Grill the Chicken (Preferred Method): Preheat a charcoal or gas grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grill grates. Grill the chicken for 12-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through with slightly charred edges.
- Bake the Chicken (Alternative Method): Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from heat and serve hot with your favorite sides to enjoy the flavorful Jamaican jerk experience.
Notes
- Marinating overnight yields the best flavor penetration.
- Scotch bonnet peppers are very spicy; adjust quantity according to heat preference.
- Grilling imparts a traditional smoky flavor that baking cannot replicate.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely to 165°F.
- Can be served with rice and peas, fried plantains, or steamed vegetables for an authentic meal.
Find it online: https://flavorspath.com/jamaican-jerk-chicken-recipe/
