Description
Authentic Caribbean jerk chicken is a flavorful dish featuring chicken marinated in a spicy blend of herbs and spices, then grilled to perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 chicken pieces: Choose legs, thighs, or breasts based on your preference.
- 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning: You can use store-bought or make your own for a personal touch.
- 4 cloves garlic: Minced garlic adds a robust flavor to the marinade.
- 1 inch fresh ginger: Grated ginger brings warmth and spice to the dish.
- 3 scallions: Chop both the white and green parts separately for added flavor and garnish.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves: Fresh thyme enhances the aromatic profile; dried thyme works too.
- 1 teaspoon allspice: This spice is essential for that classic jerk flavor.
- Juice of 2 limes: Lime juice adds acidity and brightness to the marinade.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Olive oil helps to keep the chicken moist while cooking.
- Salt and pepper: Use these to taste, ensuring the flavors are balanced.
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade by mixing jerk seasoning, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped scallions (white parts), thyme, allspice, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat or the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and allow excess to drip off. Grill for 6-8 minutes on each side or bake for 30-40 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with reserved green parts of scallions.
Notes
- Opt for bone-in chicken pieces for juicier results.
- Marinate overnight for the best flavor.
- Adjust spice levels by modifying the amount of jerk seasoning or adding honey for sweetness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: jerk chicken, Caribbean, grilled chicken, spicy chicken, authentic recipe