Jamaican Jerk Chicken Recipe
Preparation Time: 45 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Yield: 12 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Description:
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean with this Jamaican Jerk Chicken recipe. Bursting with spices and a kick of heat from scotch bonnet peppers, this dish is a crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion. Marinate the chicken for intense flavor and grill or bake for a mouthwatering meal that will transport you to Jamaica with every bite.

Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 543.6
- Fat Content: 25.1g
- Saturated Fat Content: 4.2g
- Cholesterol Content: 151mg
- Sodium Content: 3971.8mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 23.4g
- Fiber Content: 3.9g
- Sugar Content: 10.8g
- Protein Content: 55g
Ingredients:
- 2 tsp ground allspice
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 3/4 tsp ground pepper
- 3/4 tsp ground sage
- 3/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 scotch bonnet peppers, finely chopped (adjust according to heat preference)
- 12 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Marinade:
- In a bowl, combine the ground allspice, dried thyme, ground pepper, ground sage, ground nutmeg, ground cinnamon, salt, garlic powder, and sugar.
- Slowly whisk in the olive oil, soy sauce, vinegar, and lime juice until well combined.
-
Marinate the Chicken:
- Stir in the finely chopped onions and scotch bonnet peppers into the marinade mixture.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours, allowing the flavors to infuse into the chicken.
-
Cooking Options:
- Grilling Method: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill chicken until cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side, basting occasionally with reserved marinade.
- Oven Method: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
-
Serve:
- Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a serving platter.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides like rice and beans, plantains, or a crisp salad.
- Optionally, drizzle any remaining marinade boiled on the stovetop as a basting sauce or serve it over rice for extra flavor.
Tips:
- Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet peppers according to your heat tolerance. Removing the seeds and membranes will reduce the heat level.
- For an authentic touch, grill the chicken over charcoal for a smoky flavor that complements the spices.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a refreshing Caribbean drink like sorrel or a cold beer to balance the heat.
Enjoy the bold flavors and spice of Jamaican Jerk Chicken, a dish that brings the taste of the Caribbean right to your table! Perfect for gatherings or a flavorful weeknight dinner that’s sure to impress.