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Jerk Chicken

Dive into the heart of Caribbean cuisine with our exploration of the iconic Jerk Chicken. This culinary masterpiece, originating from the sun-soaked islands, boasts a unique blend of spices, including scallion, thyme, allspice, and Scotch bonnet peppers. Marinated to perfection, the chicken is grilled or smoked, delivering a harmonious fusion of smokiness and heat. Jerk Chicken not only encapsulates the rich cultural heritage of the Caribbean but also invites you to recreate its magic in your own kitchen. Join us on this flavorful journey, where tradition, innovation, and a celebration of life come together on a single plate.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Course Caribbean Cuisine, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine Caribbean, saba
Servings 4 people
Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 lbs chicken pieces legs, thighs, or a mix
  • 1 cup green onions chopped
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup vinegar preferably apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground allspice
  • 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers seeds removed and finely chopped (adjust based on spice preference)
  • 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Marinade:

  • In a blender or food processor, combine green onions, soy sauce, olive oil, vinegar, orange juice, garlic, thyme, brown sugar, allspice, black pepper, cinnamon, Scotch bonnet peppers, nutmeg, and salt. Blend until smooth.

Marinate the Chicken:

  • Place chicken pieces in a large bowl or a resealable plastic bag.
  • Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
  • Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight for the flavors to infuse.

Preheat the Grill or Oven:

  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Chicken:

  • If using a grill, oil the grates and grill the chicken for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • If using an oven, place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake for approximately 45-50 minutes or until fully cooked.

Serve and Enjoy:

  • Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
  • Garnish with additional fresh thyme or sliced green onions.
  • Serve with traditional Caribbean sides like rice and peas or fried plantains.

Notes

Enjoy the explosion of flavors in this homemade Jerk Chicken, bringing the taste of the Caribbean to your table!
Keyword Allspice, Caribbean cuisine, Caribbean culinary journey, Caribbean flavors, Chicken recipes, cooking time, cultural heritage, flavorful, Food adventure, Fusion cuisine, Grilling, Homemade, jerk chicken, Marinade, Nutmeg, Recipe instructions, Scotch Bonnet peppers, shawarma spice blend, Thyme, Traditional sides