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Deliciously grilled Jamaican Jerk Chicken with vibrant spices and herbs.

Jamaican Jerk Chicken

A comforting and flavorful Jamaican jerk chicken, perfect for both casual dinners and festive gatherings, featuring a vibrant blend of spices.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Caribbean
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the marinade

  • 1 cup 1 red onion, peeled, quartered
  • 1 bunch green onions, trimmed, cut into chunks
  • 5 cloves garlic cloves, peeled
  • 2-3 Scotch bonnet or habanero chili peppers, with seeds, stems removed Adjust for heat preference
  • 1.5 inches piece of ginger, peeled, sliced
  • 1/3 cup reduced sodium soy sauce Adds moisture and umami
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice Provides acidity and brightness
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar Adds sweetness and caramelization
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil For moisture and richness
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried Brings earthy flavor
  • 1 tablespoon allspice berries, coarsely ground or 1 teaspoon ground allspice Offers warmth and complexity
  • 2 teaspoons salt Enhances all flavors
  • 1 teaspoon pepper Adds depth and seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder Adds depth and seasoning
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon For warmth and aroma
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg For warmth and aroma

For the chicken

  • 10-12 pieces bone-in chicken thighs and drumsticks (about 3 lbs), trimmed of excess fat and skin

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a food processor or blender, combine red onion, green onions, garlic, chili peppers, and ginger. Blend until a smooth paste forms.
  • Add soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, olive oil, thyme, allspice, salt, pepper, onion powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the blended mixture. Pulse briefly to mix.
  • Place chicken pieces in a large mixing bowl or baking dish. Pour jerk marinade over chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
  • Cover chicken with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight.

Cooking

  • Preheat your grill or oven. If grilling, prepare for direct and indirect cooking.
  • Cook chicken until thoroughly done, golden brown, and slightly charred, ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • Remove chicken from the grill or oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
  • Serve the jerk chicken with your choice of sides, such as rice and peas or salad.

Notes

For best results, marinate overnight for deeper flavor. Adjust chili peppers for less heat and serve with fresh lime wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5g
Keyword family dinner, grilled chicken, Jamaican cuisine, Jerk Chicken, spicy chicken
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