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Jamaican Jerk Chicken - Image 3

Jamaican Jerk Chicken

This Jamaican Jerk Chicken recipe brings the authentic flavors of Jamaica to your table. Marinated in a spicy blend and grilled to perfection, it's a delicious and easy meal for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main
Cuisine: Jamaican
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 chicken legs or thighs skin-on, bone-in
  • 1 tablespoon allspice ground
  • 1 tablespoon thyme dried
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon ground
  • 1 teaspoon nutmeg ground
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper ground
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons vinegar white
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice fresh
  • 1 scotch bonnet pepper or habanero finely chopped
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 green onions scallions finely chopped

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Large bowl
  • Tongs
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine the allspice, thyme, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the dry spice blend.
  2. Add the minced garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, lime juice, chopped scotch bonnet pepper, onion, and green onions to the dry spice blend. Stir until all ingredients are well combined to form the marinade.
  3. Place the chicken pieces in the bowl with the marinade. Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
  4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F (190°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off.
  5. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, for about 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Chef's Tips:
• For a less spicy version, reduce the amount of scotch bonnet pepper or use a milder pepper like jalapeño.
• Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it juicy; use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
• Serve with traditional Jamaican sides like rice and peas or festival for an authentic meal.
Food Safety:
• Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill harmful bacteria.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking.