Ever since my trip to Jamaica last summer, I’ve fallen in love with the vibrant flavors and fiery spice of authentic Jamaican jerk chicken. This recipe is for anyone who adores the heat and complex spice blends that characterize Caribbean cuisine.
- 4 lbs chicken (leg quarters preferred),
- 2 tablespoons ground allspice,
- 2 tablespoons dried thyme,
- 1 to 2 Scotch Bonnet peppers chopped (adjust based on spice preference),
- 1 tablespoon ground black pepper,
- 4 garlic cloves minced,
- 1 tablespoon ginger minced,
- 3 green onions finely chopped,
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg,
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon,
- 1/4 cup soy sauce,
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar,
- 1/2 cup white vinegar,
- 1/2 cup orange juice,
- 1/4 cup lime juice,
- Salt to taste
Blend the allspice, thyme, Scotch Bonnet peppers, black pepper, garlic, ginger, green onions, nutmeg, cinnamon, soy sauce, brown sugar, white vinegar, orange juice, lime juice, and salt in a food processor until smooth. This fiery marinade is what gives the chicken its unique Jamaican jerk flavor.
Place the chicken in a large bowl or ziplock bag and pour the jerk marinade over it, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover or seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until it is cooked through and the skin is crisp and charred in places, about 45 minutes to an hour. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Final words
Congratulations, you’ve just mastered the art of making authentic Jamaican jerk chicken! This dish is perfect for a backyard BBQ or any festive occasion. The rich seasoning and fiery kick are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your crave for Caribbean cuisine. Thank you for following this recipe, and I wish you luck in your cooking adventures. Don’t forget to explore other recipes on our site for more delicious inspirations!
Tags
Jamaican jerk chicken recipe, spicy chicken recipe, Caribbean cuisine, jerk seasoning, authentic Jamaican food
