Discover how to make authentic Jamaican Jerk Chicken with this easy recipe. Marinated in a flavorful blend of spices, including allspice and Scotch bonnet peppers, this spicy grilled chicken is sure to impress. Perfect for BBQs and family dinners, learn the secrets to achieving that signature jerk flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons allspice
- 1 tablespoon ground thyme
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers (or habanero peppers), seeds removed and chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Marinade:
- In a blender or food processor, combine allspice, thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Scotch bonnet peppers, onion, garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, vegetable oil, lime juice, and ginger.
- Blend until smooth.
Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken thighs or drumsticks in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Grill the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the excess marinade.
- Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy and charred.
Serve:
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Enjoy with your favorite sides such as rice and peas, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Notes:
- Adjust the number of Scotch bonnet peppers based on your spice tolerance.
- For a smokier flavor, consider adding wood chips to your grill.
This Jerk Chicken recipe captures the essence of Jamaican cuisine and is perfect for adding a spicy kick to your meal!
Nutritional values
Chicken Thighs or Drumsticks (4 pieces, about 400g):
- Approximately 680 calories
- 60g protein
- 0g carbohydrates
- 48g fat
Benefits: Rich in high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. Contains vitamins B6 and B12, which support metabolism and energy production.
Allspice (2 tablespoons or 14g):
- 0g protein
- 12g carbohydrates
- 0.6g fat
Benefits: Contains antioxidants, may help with digestion, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Ground Thyme (1 tablespoon or 5g):
- Approximately 10 calories
- 0.5g protein
- 2g carbohydrates
- 0.3g fat
Benefits: Rich in antioxidants, may support immune health and respiratory function.
Cinnamon (1 teaspoon or 2.6g):
- Approximately 6 calories
- 0.1g protein
- 2g carbohydrates
- 0g fat
Benefits: Contains antioxidants, may help regulate blood sugar levels and support heart health.
Nutmeg (1 teaspoon or 2g):
- Approximately 12 calories
- 0.1g protein
- 3g carbohydrates
- 0.6g fat
Benefits: Contains antioxidants, may aid in digestion and have anti-inflammatory effects.
Brown Sugar (1 tablespoon or 12g):
- Approximately 45 calories
- 0g protein
- 12g carbohydrates
- 0g fat
Benefits: Adds sweetness and flavor; excessive consumption should be moderated due to high sugar content.
Salt (1 teaspoon or 5g):
- Approximately 0 calories
- 0g protein
- 0g carbohydrates
- 0g fat
Benefits: Enhances flavor; excessive intake can impact blood pressure, so moderation is important.
Black Pepper (1 teaspoon or 2g):
- Approximately 6 calories
- 0.2g protein
- 1.6g carbohydrates
- 0.3g fat
Benefits: Contains antioxidants, may aid in digestion and have anti-inflammatory properties.
Garlic Powder (1 tablespoon or 8g):
- Approximately 24 calories
- 1g protein
- 6g carbohydrates
- 0g fat
Benefits: Contains antioxidants, may support heart health and have antimicrobial properties.
Onion Powder (1 tablespoon or 8g):
- Approximately 24 calories
- 1g protein
- 6g carbohydrates
- 0g fat
Benefits: Contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties.
Scotch Bonnet or Habanero Peppers (1-2 peppers, about 10g):
- Approximately 4 calories
- 0.2g protein
- 1g carbohydrates
- 0g fat
Benefits: Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and support pain relief. Adds heat and flavor.
Small Onion (1, about 70g):
- Approximately 30 calories
- 1g protein
- 7g carbohydrates
- 0g fat
Benefits: Rich in antioxidants, may support heart health and have anti-inflammatory effects.
Garlic (3 cloves, about 9g):
- Approximately 13 calories
- 0.6g protein
- 3g carbohydrates
- 0g fat
Benefits: Contains antioxidants, may support immune function and heart health.
Soy Sauce (2 tablespoons or 30ml):
- Approximately 20 calories
- 2g protein
- 2g carbohydrates
- 0g fat
Benefits: Adds flavor; note that it is high in sodium, so it should be used in moderation.
White Vinegar (2 tablespoons or 30ml):
- Approximately 0 calories
- 0g protein
- 0g carbohydrates
- 0g fat
Benefits: Adds acidity and flavor; may aid in digestion and blood sugar control.
Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons or 30ml):
- Approximately 240 calories
- 0g protein
- 0g carbohydrates
- 27g fat
Benefits: Provides cooking fat; choose a healthy oil like olive oil for heart health benefits.
Lime Juice (Juice of 1 lime, about 30ml):
- Approximately 10 calories
- 0g protein
- 3g carbohydrates
- 0g fat
Benefits: Rich in vitamin C, supports immune health and adds a fresh flavor.
Fresh Ginger (1 tablespoon or 6g):
- Approximately 5 calories
- 0.1g protein
- 1g carbohydrates
- 0g fat
Benefits: Contains antioxidants, may help with digestion and have anti-inflammatory properties.
Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons or 8g, optional):
- Approximately 2 calories
- 0.2g protein
- 0.4g carbohydrates
- 0g fat
Benefits: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K; supports digestion and has antioxidant properties.
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