Juicy, smoky jerk chicken marinated in bold Caribbean spices, grilled to perfection, and served with classic sides—this dish brings heat, sweetness, and deep island flavor in every bite.
🕒 Recipe Details
Prep Time: 20 minutes (+2 hours marinating)
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: ~3 hours
Servings: 4
Calories: ~520 kcal per serving
Protein: ~40g per serving
🛒 Ingredients
For the jerk marinade:
4 chicken thighs or drumsticks
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp brown sugar
3 cloves garlic
1 small onion
1–2 scotch bonnet peppers (or chili substitute)
1 tsp thyme
1 tsp allspice
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp black pepper
Juice of 1 lime
1 tbsp vinegar
For serving (optional):
Rice & peas
Fried plantains
Fresh lime wedges
👨🍳 Instructions
Make marinade
Blend garlic, onion, peppers, spices, soy sauce, lime juice, vinegar, and brown sugar until smooth.
Marinate chicken
Coat chicken well and refrigerate at least 2 hours (overnight for best flavor).
Cook chicken
Grill, bake, or pan-sear chicken at 200°C for 35–40 minutes, turning occasionally until charred and cooked through.
Glaze (optional)
Brush with leftover marinade during cooking for extra flavor (boil marinade first if reusing).
Serve
Plate with rice & peas, plantains, and lime wedges.
🍽️ Flavor & Experience
This jerk chicken is smoky, spicy, slightly sweet, and deeply aromatic—with charred edges and juicy meat that delivers authentic Caribbean street food vibes.
