Discover the secret to making delicious Jamaican Jerk Chicken at home! This recipe features chicken marinated in a bold, spicy jerk seasoning blend and grilled to crispy perfection. Ideal for a flavorful and exotic dinner, this jerk chicken captures the essence of Caribbean cuisine with its rich, smoky flavor and aromatic spices. Follow our easy step-by-step guide to recreate this classic dish and impress your family and friends with a taste of Jamaica. Perfect for summer barbecues or a special meal!

Ingredients:

- 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs

- 2 tbsp jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)

- 2 tbsp olive oil

- 2 tbsp soy sauce

- 1 tbsp honey

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger, grated

- 1 lime, juiced

- Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the jerk seasoning, olive oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and lime juice. Mix well.

Marinate the Chicken: Rub the marinade all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for deeper flavor.

Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and has a nice char.

Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or a lime wedge if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Jamaican Jerk Chicken with your favorite sides, like rice and peas or a fresh salad!

Nutritional Values

Bone-In, Skinless Chicken Thighs (4 thighs / approx. 500g)

  - Calories: Approximately 650

  - Protein: 60g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Fat: 45g

Benefits: High in protein, provides essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins.

Jerk Seasoning (2 tbsp / approx. 14g)

  - Calories: Approximately 30

  - Protein: 1g

  - Carbohydrates: 6g

  - Fat: 1g

Benefits: Adds flavor with spices, some blends contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

Olive Oil (2 tbsp / 30ml)

  - Calories: Approximately 240

  - Protein: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Fat: 27g

Benefits: Provides healthy monounsaturated fats, supports heart health, and adds richness.

Soy Sauce (2 tbsp / 30ml)

  - Calories: Approximately 20

  - Protein: 2g

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Adds umami flavor, provides a small amount of protein and minerals.

Honey (1 tbsp / 21g)

  - Calories: Approximately 64

  - Protein: 0.1g

  - Carbohydrates: 17g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Natural sweetener, provides antioxidants, and may help soothe the throat.

Garlic (3 cloves / approx. 9g)

  - Calories: Approximately 13

  - Protein: 0.6g

  - Carbohydrates: 3g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Contains allicin, known for its antioxidant and immune-supporting properties.

Fresh Ginger (1 thumb-sized piece / approx. 20g)

  - Calories: Approximately 15

  - Protein: 0.3g

  - Carbohydrates: 3g

  - Fat: 0.1g

Benefits: Contains gingerol, known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.

Lime Juice (1 lime / approx. 30ml)

  - Calories: Approximately 8

  - Protein: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Rich in vitamin C, supports immune health, and adds fresh flavor.

Salt (to taste)

  - Calories: 0

  - Protein: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Enhances flavor and is necessary for proper nerve and muscle function.

Pepper (to taste)

  - Calories: Approximately 6 (per 1/2 tsp)

  - Protein: 0.3g

  - Carbohydrates: 1.5g

  - Fat: 0.2g

Benefits: Contains piperine, which may enhance nutrient absorption and add flavor.