Jamaican Jerk Chicken

Jerk Chicken is an iconic Jamaican dish, renowned for its intense, spicy, and smoky flavor profile. The chicken is marinated with a unique blend of allspice, Scotch Bonnet peppers, and other spices, then traditionally smoked or grilled over pimento wood, giving it its distinctive taste.

Jamaican Jerk Chicken
⏱ 90 min 👨‍🍳 medium 🍽 4 servings

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Mise en Place: Jamaican Jerk Chicken
Mise en Place – Jamaican Jerk Chicken

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Blend all marinade ingredients (except chicken and oil) in a blender until a smooth paste forms.
  2. Wash chicken pieces, pat dry, and score the skin if desired. Rub generously with the jerk marinade, ensuring it gets under the skin.
  3. Cover the marinated chicken and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
  4. Preheat grill to medium heat (or oven to 200°C / 400°F). Brush chicken pieces with a little oil and grill indirectly or bake in the oven.
  5. Cook the chicken for approximately 45-60 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and reaching an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). For a smokier flavor, pimento wood chips can be used.
  6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve with rice and peas or fresh salad.

Nutrition

550 kcal · 60g Protein · 15g Carbs · 28g Fat