If you’re looking for a bold and flavorful grilled chicken recipe that’ll blow your taste buds away, this Authentic Jamaican Jerk Chicken is the real deal. A mouthwatering blend of heat, sweetness, and spice, this Caribbean-inspired recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any BBQ or dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Bursting with authentic Jamaican flavor
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Perfect for grilling season, BBQs, or weeknight dinners
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Make-ahead marinade means low-stress cooking
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Customizable spice level for all heat tolerances
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Naturally gluten-free and packed with protein
Ingredients Breakdown:
Chicken
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Chicken thighs (4, bone-in, skin-on)
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Chicken drumsticks (4)
Dark meat stays juicy and flavorful during grilling, with skin that crisps up beautifully.
Marinade Base
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Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps distribute spices and aids in grilling.
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Brown sugar (1 tablespoon): Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the skin.
Spices & Seasonings
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Ground allspice (2 teaspoons): Signature jerk spice with warm, peppery notes.
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Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds subtle sweetness and warmth.
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Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Earthy and aromatic.
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Nutmeg (1 teaspoon): Enhances the warm spice profile.
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Cayenne pepper (1 teaspoon): Brings heat (adjustable to taste).
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Black pepper (1 teaspoon): Adds a sharp, mild heat.
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Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances and enhances all the flavors.
Aromatics & Acids
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Green onions (4, chopped): Fresh, sharp, and a staple in jerk marinades.
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Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Adds pungent, savory depth.
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Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Contributes umami and saltiness.
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Juice of 1 lime: Brings brightness and tenderizes the meat.
Heat
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Scotch bonnet peppers (1–2, chopped): Traditional fiery heat—adjust to your spice preference.
Tips and Tricks
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Scotch bonnet peppers are spicy—remove the seeds to reduce the heat or substitute with habaneros or jalapeños.
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Letting the chicken marinate overnight provides the best depth of flavor.
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Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
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For oven baking, roast at 400°F (200°C) for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway.
Variations and Customizations
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Boneless Option: Use boneless thighs or breasts for faster cooking
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Oven-Baked Version: Use the same marinade and bake on a wire rack
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Sweet Twist: Add a tablespoon of pineapple juice or mango puree to the marinade
What to Serve with Jamaican Jerk Chicken
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Rice and Peas or Coconut Rice
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Fried Plantains
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Fresh Mango Salsa
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Grilled Corn with lime and chili powder
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Caribbean Coleslaw for a refreshing crunch
Storage Instructions
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
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Freezer: Freeze marinated raw chicken for up to 3 months; thaw before grilling
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Reheat: Warm gently in the oven or microwave to preserve texture
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Adjust the grilling time—boneless chicken cooks faster and may take around 20–25 minutes.
Is jerk chicken always spicy?
Traditionally, yes. But you can adjust the spice level by reducing or omitting the Scotch bonnet peppers.
Can I bake this instead of grilling?
Definitely. Bake at 400°F for about 35–40 minutes or until fully cooked.