Island cuisine carries with it a vibrant explosion of flavors and spices that transport you to the sun-soaked beaches of Jamaica with just one bite. Among the many iconic dishes that showcase the rich culinary heritage of this beautiful country, Jerk Chicken stands out as a true taste sensation. Succulent chicken marinated in a fiery concoction of Scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, and a blend of aromatic seasonings, then grilled or smoked to perfection – the result is a dish that tantalizes the taste buds and leaves you craving for more.
Ingredients:
4 pounds of chicken pieces (legs, thighs, or breast)
6 Scotch bonnet peppers, seeds removed
6 garlic cloves
2 tablespoons of fresh thyme leaves
2 tablespoons of ground allspice
2 tablespoons of brown sugar
1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon of ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon of salt
1 tablespoon of black pepper
1/2 cup of soy sauce
1/4 cup of olive oil
1/4 cup of vinegar
1 onion, chopped
Instructions:
Prepare the Marinade : In a food processor, combine the Scotch bonnet peppers, garlic, thyme, allspice, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Blend until a smooth paste forms.
Marinate the Chicken : Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag. Add the marinade, soy sauce, olive oil, vinegar, and chopped onion. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
Grill or Smoke : Preheat your grill or smoker to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and charred in spots. Alternatively, if using a smoker, cook the chicken at 250°F for 2-2.5 hours, until tender and juicy.
Serve and Enjoy : Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer it to a platter, garnish with fresh thyme leaves or sliced Scotch bonnet peppers for an extra kick, and serve hot with traditional rice and peas, fried plantains, or a refreshing tropical salad.
Tips and Tricks:
Adjusting Heat Levels : For a milder version, reduce the number of Scotch bonnet peppers or remove the seeds before blending. To amp up the heat, leave the seeds in or add a splash of hot sauce to the marinade.
Wood Choice for Smoking : If smoking the chicken, use aromatic woods like pimento wood or traditional Jamaican pimento leaves for an authentic flavor infusion.
Resting Time : Allowing the chicken to rest after grilling or smoking helps redistribute the juices, ensuring a moist and flavorful end result.
Experience the bold flavors and spices of Jamaica with this tantalizing Jerk Chicken recipe. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a taste of the Caribbean, this dish is sure to impress with its complex flavors and aromatic charm. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey that will transport you straight to the heart of Jamaica – one delicious bite at a time.

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