Caribbean Bliss: Spicy Jamaican Jerk Chicken Thighs for Two 🌶️🍗

Jamaican Jerk Chicken for Two 🍗

Prep Time: 6 hours
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 7 hours
Servings: 2

Introduction:

Indulge in the flavors of the Caribbean with this tantalizing Jamaican Jerk Chicken recipe tailored for two. Bursting with spices and a hint of rum, this dish promises to transport your taste buds to sun-soaked beaches and vibrant island markets.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken legs
• 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon molasses
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 habanero pepper, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 3/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
• 3 tablespoons Jamaican rum

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:

   • In a small bowl, combine white wine vinegar, fresh lime juice, molasses, and Jamaican rum.
   • Stir in chopped onions and minced habanero pepper for a kick of heat.

2. Mix the Spices:

   • In another bowl, mix together ground cinnamon, cloves, allspice, black pepper, salt, and minced garlic.
   • Slowly whisk the dry spices into the liquid mixture until well combined.

3. Set Aside Baste:

   • Pour 1/2 cup of the marinade into a separate cup to use as a baste during cooking. Set it aside for later use.

4. Marinate the Chicken:

   • Place chicken legs in a ziplock bag or shallow dish.
   • Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.
   • Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.

5. Prepare the Grill:

   • Prepare your grill by setting the coals off to one side for indirect cooking.
   • Position an aluminum pan or create one from heavy-duty aluminum foil next to the coals on the lowest grill rack.
   • Pour one cup of water plus 2-3 tablespoons of rum into the drip pan for added flavor infusion.

6. Grill the Chicken:

   • Once the coals are hot, place the chicken on the prepared rack above the drip pan, opposite from the coals.
   • Cover the grill to trap the smoky flavors inside.
   • As the chicken cooks and browns, periodically baste it with the reserved marinade for added moisture and flavor.
   • Grill the chicken until the juices run clear and the meat is cooked through, which typically takes at least 30 minutes to an hour, with slow cooking preferred for optimal tenderness.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 461.4 per serving
• Fat Content: 27.3g
• Saturated Fat Content: 6.6g
• Cholesterol Content: 138.6mg
• Sodium Content: 722.4mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 16.7g
• Fiber Content: 1.6g
• Sugar Content: 8.2g
• Protein Content: 31.5g

Tips for Success:

• For a milder flavor, remove the seeds and membranes from the habanero pepper before mincing.
• Adjust the amount of pepper used to suit your desired level of spiciness.
• Ensure the chicken is thoroughly marinated for the best flavor penetration.
• Keep an eye on the chicken while grilling to prevent burning, adjusting the heat as needed.
• Serve your Jamaican Jerk Chicken with traditional sides like rice and peas or grilled pineapple for a complete Caribbean dining experience.

Enjoy the taste of Jamaica with this flavorful Jamaican Jerk Chicken recipe, perfect for a romantic dinner for two or a delightful weeknight meal. Let the aromatic spices and succulent chicken thighs transport you to the sunny shores of the Caribbean with every mouthwatering bite! 🌴🍹