Get ready to transport your kitchen to the vibrant streets of Jamaica with this mouthwatering Grilled Jamaican Jerk Chicken recipe! Imagine tender, perfectly charred chicken thighs bursting with bold, spicy flavors that dance on your palate - a culinary adventure that promises to turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary feast. Whether you're a spice lover or just looking to impress your dinner guests, this recipe is your ticket to a Caribbean-inspired culinary journey that's both simple to prepare and incredibly delicious.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Jamaican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the chicken thighs. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This will ensure that the seasoning adheres well to the chicken.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Jamaican jerk seasoning, olive oil, and the juice of one lime. Mix well until you have a smooth marinade.
- Add salt to taste into the marinade. Remember that the jerk seasoning may already contain salt, so adjust according to your preference.
- Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally for a few hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, prepare the coals until they are covered with white ash. For a gas grill, allow it to heat up for about 10-15 minutes.
- Once the grill is ready, remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
- Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Close the lid and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and has nice grill marks.
- Flip the chicken thighs over and continue grilling for another 15-20 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- Serve the grilled Jamaican jerk chicken with lime wedges on the side and your choice of sides, such as rice and peas, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Marination is Key: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally 2-4 hours for maximum flavor penetration.
- Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe and perfectly cooked meat.
- Grill Management: Create a two-zone fire on your grill - one side with direct high heat for searing, and another with indirect heat for even cooking.
- Don't Waste the Marinade: Always discard the used marinade to prevent cross-contamination. If you want extra sauce, prepare a separate batch.
- Let it Rest: Always let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Enhance the Flavor: Serve with fresh lime wedges and traditional Caribbean sides like rice and peas for an authentic experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 123kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 23mg
