Jamaican Jerk Chicken Recipe

Jamaicans have a reputation of having the best Jerk chicken recipe. I may be a little bit biased, but this is the perfect dish to add to your plate. Coming from Jamaica, jerk chicken recipe is known for its unique blend of smoky, spicy, and sweet flavors. Jerk chicken is mainly done on the grill aka jerk pan, but it is great in the oven as well.

Ingredients:

• 4 lbs Chicken
• 5 Scallions
• Thyme
• Pimento
• 5 cloves garlic
• Parsley 
• 1/4 cup Avocado oil
• 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1 ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp Grace or Walkerswood Jamaican Jerk seasoning
• Scotch bonnet pepper (optional)

Preparing the Marinade:

The key to a delicious Jamaican jerk chicken recipe lies in the marinade. Combine all your ingredients into a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.

Coat the chicken generously with the marinade, making sure to massage it into the meat for maximum flavor penetration. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, in the refrigerator.

Traditionally, jerk chicken is cooked over a wood fire for that unmistakable smoky flavor. However, not everyone has access to a grill, so an oven will be just fine. If you’re using a grill or smoker, consider adding wood chips like pimento or applewood to enhance the smokiness.

Perfecting the Cooking Process:

Take the seasoned chicken out of the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. This will ensure even cooking.

Preheat your oven to 375°F, next cover the baking pan with parchment paper.

Next place the marinated chicken on a baking pan, then cover it with foil, this will help the chicken lock in moisture, so your chicken will not dry out.

Leave the foil on for 30 minutes, then remove foil cover and let your chicken grill for another 1 hour.

Trust me this will make your chicken so juicy and delicious.

Serve with rice and peas, fried plantains, or a refreshing tropical salad.
Cooking jerk chicken is not just a culinary experience; it’s a journey into the heart of Caribbean flavors. With the right seasoning, preparation, and cooking techniques, you can master this iconic dish and impress your friends and family with a taste of Jamaica right in your own kitchen.