Imagine a dish that transports you straight to the sun-kissed shores of the Caribbean with every bite. The magic of jerk chicken lies in its marinade, a mix of allspice, thyme, garlic, and habanero peppers (or scotch bonnet peppers for more authenticity.) This aromatic blend is generously added to the chicken, infusing it with a depth of flavor that is both complex and irresistible. As the chicken cooks, the marinade caramelizes, creating a beautiful, charred crust that adds a delightful crunch to each bite.
This recipe was heavily inspired by The Jerk Shack, a recipe I had seen featured on the show Diners, Drive-in's, and Dives. They are located in San Antonio, Texas. Make sure to check out the restaurant if you are ever in the area!
Whether you’re enjoying it with a side of Rice and Beans, a Fresh Mango Salsa, or simply on its own, jerk chicken is a celebration of Caribbean cuisine that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to become a favorite!
Jamaican jerk chicken is a culinary delight that brings the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean straight to your table. This dish is known for its bold, spicy, and aromatic seasoning, which creates a symphony of flavors in every bite.
For even juicer, more flavorful chicken, consider using a citrus brine, like this one here!
To Make This Recipe You Will Need
Chicken: I used bone in legs and thighs.
Jerk Seasoning: learn how to make Homemade Jerk Seasoning with this recipe!
Fresh Produce: Sweet Onion, Bell Peppers, Habanero or Scotch Bonnet Peppers, Green Onion, Lemon.
Aromatics: Garlic, Ginger, Thyme.
Spices: Peppercorn, Allspice, Clove, Cinnamon, Nutmeg
Olive Oil: Helps to blend the marinade and coat the chicken.
Soy Sauce: Adds umami and saltiness.
Brown Sugar: to add a touch of sweetness to counter the hear
FOR THE BBQ Sauce (optional): Jerk Marinade, Ketchup, Worcestershire, Dijon Mustard, Brown Sugar, Honey, and Water.
1.) First, if you want juicy and flavorful chicken, I recommend brining. Brining chicken involves immersing the chicken in a saltwater solution using citrus, sugar, and spices. Check out my recipe here!
2.) The second step is to prepare the Homemade Jerk Seasoning. The magic of jerk seasoning lies in its complex blend of spices and herbs, so I suggest making your own! But if you have Jerk seasoning, that can be used as a substitute. Once the chicken has been brined, fully coat in the seasoning blend.
3.) Then it's time to prepare the marinade! Roast the veggies at 400f and combine the rest of the ingredients. Using a food processor, blend until smooth and smother the chicken with the marinade. Let marinate as long as possible, preferably overnight. Reserve 1/2 cup for the Jerk BBQ Sauce.
4.) I highly recommend making the BBQ Sauce, but it's not necessary to enjoy this dish! It's really simple, just combine all the ingredients in a saucepan and put on medium heat until bubbling, then simmer for at least 10 minutes.
5.) Now it's time to bake the chicken. Cook for 35 minutes, then remove the chicken from the oven. Brush the chicken with jerk BBQ, place back in the oven and cook an additional 10-15 minutes.
6.) Serve and Enjoy: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Try my recipe for Caribbean Red Beans and Rice for the perfect side dish, and top with my Fresh Mango Salsa.
Jamaican Jerk Chicken is a dish that brings the vibrant and bold flavors of the Caribbean to your kitchen. With its rich history and unique blend of spices, it’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Give this recipe a try and transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Jamaica! Let me know in the comments what you think about this recipe and follow along for more:
Jamaican Jerk Chicken with Jerk BBQ Sauce
Ingredients
Jerk Marinade
Jerk BBQ Sauce
Other Ingredients
Instructions
Prepare The Marinade
-
Preheat oven to 400f.
Cut and deseed the habaneros and bell peppers. Chop the onions and place all on a large baking sheet. Add smashed garlic, thyme, and green onions to the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and roast in the oven for 20 minutes.
In a medium sized bowl combine brown sugar, soy sauce, spices, lemon juice, and fresh ginger.
In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted vegetables and the contents of the medium bowl together until smooth.
Reserve ½ c of marinade for the BBQ sauce.
Prepare the BBQ Sauce
-
Combine all the ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove from heat and let it cool.
Prepare the Chicken
-
Place brined chicken in a large pot and fully coat the chicken with Jerk Seasoning.
Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well-coated. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
Once the chicken has marinated, add to a foil lined baking sheet.
Cook the chicken at 400f for 35 minutes, brush with Jerk BBQ sauce and cook an additional 10-15 mins.
Note
Brine the Chicken: For more flavorful, juicy chicken consider using a Citrus Brine, check out my recipe for more details!
Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the number of Scotch Bonnet peppers or remove the seeds.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices will give you the best flavor.
Marinate Thoroughly: The key to flavorful chicken is a good marinade.
