What is the secret to jerk chicken?

The secret lies in balance and marination. Using allspice, scotch bonnet peppers, and fresh thyme forms the flavor base, but letting the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 12 hours is what infuses it with deep, smoky character.

What are the main ingredients in jerk chicken?

At its core, a jerk chicken recipe relies on scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, thyme, garlic, scallions, lime juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar. These create a blend of heat, earthiness, acid, and sweet.

What are the three main ingredients of jerk?

The essential three are: Allspice – the unmistakable warm spice Scotch bonnet – the fiery, fruity chili Fresh thyme – herbal balance

How long should you let jerk chicken marinate?

For best flavor, marinate jerk chicken for 12–24 hours . Four to six hours works in a pinch, but longer marination leads to deeper, more tender results.

Jerk Chicken Recipe – Ultimate 5-Step Guide for Bold Flavor

Name: Jerk Chicken Recipe That Brings the Island to Your Backyard
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks; 3 scotch bonnet peppers (or habaneros); 4 garlic cloves; 1 bunch scallions; 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves; 1 tbsp ground allspice; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp cinnamon; ½ tsp nutmeg; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; Juice of 2 limes; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; Optional: 1 tbsp white vinegar

Description

An authentic jerk chicken recipe bursting with bold island flavor. Marinated in scotch bonnet, thyme, and allspice, then grilled or baked to perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks

3 scotch bonnet peppers (or habaneros)

4 garlic cloves

1 bunch scallions

1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves

1 tbsp ground allspice

1 tbsp brown sugar

1 tsp cinnamon

½ tsp nutmeg

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

Juice of 2 limes

2 tbsp soy sauce

2 tbsp vegetable oil

Optional: 1 tbsp white vinegar

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Instructions

1. Blend all marinade ingredients until smooth.

2. Score the chicken and place in a zip-top bag or container.

3. Pour marinade over chicken, seal, and refrigerate 6–24 hours.

4. Preheat grill or oven to 400°F.

5. Grill 6–8 mins per side or bake 40–45 mins, flipping halfway.

6. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best flavor, marinate overnight. Use gloves when handling scotch bonnet peppers. Serve with rice and peas or plantains for a traditional pairing.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilled or Baked
Cuisine: Caribbean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 pieces
Calories: 340
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 110mg