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Jerk Chicken

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Bursting with bold flavors and a hint of heat, Jerk Chicken is a staple of Jamaican cuisine. This dish features chicken marinated in a spicy and aromatic blend of seasonings and is traditionally grilled to perfection. The result is juicy, flavorful chicken with a crispy, charred exterior. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a flavorful dinner, Jerk Chicken is sure to impress.

Appliances and Special Utensils

Ingredients

  • 4-6 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3-4 Scotch bonnet peppers, seeded and chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 tsp ground allspice
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Marinade: In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped onion, garlic, Scotch bonnet peppers, thyme, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, brown sugar, soy sauce, lime juice, vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, and green onions. Blend until smooth to create the jerk marinade.
  2. Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
  3. Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 350°F (175°C). If using a charcoal grill, prepare the coals until they are covered with gray ash.
  4. Grill Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the marinade. Place the chicken thighs on the grill, skin-side down. Grill for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Baste Chicken: If desired, you can baste the chicken with additional marinade (that has been boiled to kill any bacteria) using a basting brush during the last few minutes of grilling to enhance the flavor.
  6. Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your spicy and flavorful Jerk Chicken with a side of rice and peas or your favorite Caribbean sides!