Authentic Jamaican Jerk Chicken Recipe: Smoky, Spicy, and Irresistible
Introduction: Dive Into Bold Caribbean Flavors
When you crave a dish packed with smoky heat, vibrant spices, and rich Caribbean flavors, this Jerk Chicken Recipe delivers every time. Whether you’re a grill master or prefer oven-baking, you’ll love recreating this authentic taste of Jamaica at home.
Looking for more island flavors? Check out our Caribbean Chicken Recipes!
The Rich History Behind Jamaican Jerk Chicken
The Jerk Chicken Recipe has its origins with the Maroons—Africans who escaped slavery and adapted local cooking methods to create what we now know as jerk seasoning. Traditionally, the meat was slow-cooked over pimento wood for a smoky flavor explosion.
Learn more about the history of Jerk cooking on Wikipedia.
What You’ll Need for This Recipe
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
👉 Tip: For a milder jerk chicken recipe, you can substitute Scotch bonnet peppers with jalapeños.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- Fresh pineapple slices for serving
- Extra Scotch bonnet peppers for added heat
How to Make Authentic Jerk Chicken
- Prepare the Marinade: In a blender or food processor, combine all marinade ingredients until smooth.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a zip-top bag, pour the marinade over it, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight for best results).
- Grill the Jerk Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high. Cook chicken 6-8 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Alternative Baking Method: No grill? No problem. Bake the chicken at 375°F for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve: Slice and serve your Jerk Chicken Recipe with traditional sides.
Want more spicy ideas? Try our Spicy Grilled Chicken Tenders Recipe!
Tools You’ll Need
- Blender or food processor
- Large zip-top bag or bowl
- Grill or oven
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
Variations of the Classic Jerk Chicken Recipe
- Jerk Chicken Wings Recipe: Marinate wings and grill until crispy.
- Jerk Chicken Skewers Recipe: Cube chicken, skewer with veggies, and grill.
- Vegetarian Jerk Tofu Recipe: Use tofu or cauliflower for a meat-free option.
Looking for plant-based recipes? Explore our Best Vegetarian Caribbean Recipes!
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
- Refrigerate leftover jerk chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze cooked jerk chicken for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in a 300°F oven or microwave on medium until warmed through.
Want perfect freezing tips? Check out How to Freeze Chicken Properly.
Best Ways to Serve Jerk Chicken
- Serve with Jamaican rice and peas.
- Pair with fried plantains or sweet corn.
- Add a fresh mango salsa.
- Turn it into a jerk chicken wrap with flatbread!
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
FAQ About the Jerk Chicken Recipe
Can I make the jerk chicken recipe without Scotch bonnet peppers?
Yes, substitute with habanero or jalapeños for a milder version.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely, but cook carefully to avoid drying out the meat.
Can I bake jerk chicken instead of grilling?
Yes, baking works great at 375°F.
Is this jerk chicken recipe very spicy?
It can be, but you can reduce the spice level based on your preference.
Can I shorten the marination time?
At least 2 hours is required, but overnight marination is ideal.
What sides are best with jerk chicken?
Try serving it with Easy Coconut Rice Recipe for a perfect match!
Final Notes for Success
- Always wear gloves when handling hot peppers.
- Adjust the level of spice to suit your guests.
- For best results, always use a thermometer to check doneness.
Want to level up your spice game? See our Ultimate Guide to Spice Blends!
Conclusion: Why This Jerk Chicken Recipe Belongs on Your Table
This Jerk Chicken Recipe is the ultimate flavor bomb! Smoky, spicy, juicy, and absolutely unforgettable. Perfect for summer barbecues, weeknight meals, or when you want to impress guests with authentic Caribbean cooking at home.
Jerk Chicken Recipe
Description
Bring the bold flavors of Jamaica to your table with this authentic jerk chicken recipe. Juicy chicken thighs marinated in a rich blend of spices and grilled (or baked) to perfection. A tropical taste sensation!
Ingredients
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon brown sugar
4 green onions, chopped
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 Scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and chopped
1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
1 teaspoon ground allspice
½ teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Juice of 1 lime
Optional Ingredients:
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon ketchup
Fresh pineapple slices
Extra Scotch bonnet peppers for heat
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade: Blend all marinade ingredients until smooth.
Marinate the Chicken: Coat chicken thoroughly, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight).
Grill the Chicken: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken 6–8 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Alternative Baking Method: Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake marinated chicken for 35–40 minutes, turning halfway through.
Serve: Plate and serve hot with sides like coconut rice, fried plantains, or mango salsa.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 320kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 20g31%
- Sodium 620mg26%
- Total Carbohydrate 8g3%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 25g50%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Wear gloves when handling Scotch bonnet peppers to avoid skin irritation.
Marinating overnight provides the deepest, richest flavor.
If using boneless chicken, adjust grilling time to prevent drying out.
For less spice, substitute Scotch bonnets with jalapeños.
