Get ready to transport your taste buds to the vibrant Caribbean with this irresistible Jamaican Chicken and Plantain recipe that promises to turn an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure! Imagine tender, crispy chicken thighs perfectly seasoned with aromatic allspice, paired with golden-caramelized plantains that melt in your mouth – this dish is not just a meal, it's a tropical experience that will have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Jamaican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 ripe plantains
- 1 onion (sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by patting the thighs dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with allspice, salt, and black pepper on both sides.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down to achieve a golden brown crispy exterior.
- Cook the chicken for approximately 6-7 minutes on the first side, allowing the skin to develop a deep golden color and crisp texture. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes on the other side.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, add sliced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Peel the ripe plantains and slice them diagonally into 1-inch thick pieces. Add the plantain slices to the pan with the onions and garlic.
- Gently fry the plantains for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a caramelized golden-brown color and become slightly soft.
- Return the chicken thighs to the pan, nestling them among the plantains and onions. Reduce heat to medium-low and cover the pan.
- Allow the chicken and plantains to cook together for an additional 8-10 minutes, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. Plate the chicken thighs with the caramelized plantains and onions.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or green onions and serve with rice or traditional Jamaican sides like rice and peas.
Tips
- Choose Ripe Plantains: Select plantains that are deep yellow with black spots for the best caramelization and sweetness.
- Pat Chicken Dry: Always ensure chicken thighs are thoroughly dried before seasoning to achieve that perfect crispy skin.
- Temperature Control: Use medium-high heat for initial chicken searing, then reduce to medium-low for even cooking.
- Invest in a Meat Thermometer: Always check that chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let It Rest: Allow the dish to rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to help juices redistribute, ensuring maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Enhance Flavor: Consider marinating chicken overnight in Jamaican jerk seasoning for an even more authentic taste experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 312kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 80mg
