Get ready to take your taste buds on a vibrant journey with Bruce's Jamaican Jerk Chicken! This mouthwatering dish is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings the warmth and spice of the Caribbean right to your kitchen. With a tantalizing marinade bursting with bold flavors, this recipe is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home. In just one hour, you can whip up a feast that will have everyone asking for seconds—are you ready to unlock the secrets of authentic Jamaican cuisine?
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Jamaican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, 2 tablespoons of jerk seasoning, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the juice of 1 lime, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the jerk seasoning, olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, and salt. Mix well to create a marinade.
- Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring they are fully coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to a resealable plastic bag for marinating.
- Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For best results, marinate for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while the chicken is marinating.
- Once marinated, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the chicken thighs for 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
- During the last 10 minutes of cooking, you may choose to broil the chicken for a few minutes to achieve a crispy, charred exterior. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful chicken.
- Serve the jerk chicken hot, garnished with lime wedges and your choice of sides such as rice and peas, coleslaw, or grilled vegetables.
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For the best results, let your chicken marinate for at least 1-2 hours, or even overnight if you have the time. This will allow the jerk seasoning to fully penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to reduce the amount of jerk seasoning or add a touch of honey to balance the spice. Conversely, if you love heat, consider adding some chopped scotch bonnet peppers to your marinade!
- Perfect Baking Temperature: Preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) is key for achieving that perfect golden-brown finish. Make sure your oven is fully heated before placing the chicken inside.
- Broil for a Crispy Finish: To get that delicious charred exterior, switch to broil for the last 5-10 minutes of cooking. Just keep a close eye on it to avoid burning!
- Let it Rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This step is crucial as it helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender.
- Serve with Traditional Sides: Pair your jerk chicken with classic sides like rice and peas or coleslaw for a complete Jamaican experience that will transport you straight to the islands!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 125mg
