Spicy Jerk Chicken
Spicy Jerk Chicken is a fiery and flavorful Caribbean dish that combines a blend of hot peppers, spices, and herbs. It’s packed with vibrant flavors, and each bite brings the taste of the islands to your plate.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs and drumsticks
- 2 Scotch bonnet peppers or habaneros
- 1 tbsp allspice berries
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1 thumb-sized ginger root peeled
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tsp fresh thyme
- 4 scallions
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make the Marinade: Blend Scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, thyme, scallions, lime juice, soy sauce, nutmeg, cinnamon, salt, and pepper into a smooth paste.
- Marinate the Chicken: Rub the marinade thoroughly onto the chicken pieces. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors infuse.
- Prepare the Grill: Heat your grill for indirect grilling (medium-high). If using charcoal, wait until the coals are covered with white ash.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the grill, away from direct heat. Cover and cook for 45 minutes, turning and basting with leftover marinade halfway through.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Notes
- For an extra smoky flavor, add some wood chips to your grill.
- Scotch bonnet peppers are very hot! Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
- Serve with coconut rice, fried plantains, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.