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Jamaican Jerk Chicken

Jamaican Jerk Chicken is a popular and flavorful dish that has its origins in Jamaica, a country known for its rich and diverse culinary traditions. The dish is a perfect representation of the vibrant and spicy flavors that are characteristic of Jamaican cuisine. Jerk chicken is typically marinated in a mixture of various spices, including allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers, creating a unique and distinctive flavor profile that sets it apart from other grilled chicken dishes.

Prep Time:

20 mins

Cook Time:

30 mins

Additional Time:

2 hrs

Total Time:

2 hrs 50 mins

Servings:

Ingredients

6 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - cut into chunks

1 cup water

4 limes, juiced

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

2 teaspoons ground allspice

2 teaspoons dried thyme

1 ½ teaspoons ground black pepper

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground ginger

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

2 onions, chopped

1 ½ cups chopped green onions

2 habanero peppers, chopped

6 cloves garlic, chopped

Directions

Step 1

Place chicken in a medium bowl. Cover with water and lime juice. Set aside.

Step 2

Place oil, allspice, thyme, black pepper, salt, brown sugar, ginger, and nutmeg in a blender; blend until well combined. Add onions, green onions, habanero peppers, and garlic; blend until almost smooth.

Step 3

Pour most of the blended marinade mixture into the bowl with chicken, reserving a small amount to use as a basting sauce while cooking. Stir chicken until well coated. Cover the bowl and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

Step 4

Preheat an outdoor grill for medium heat and lightly oil the grate.

Step 5

Cook chicken slowly on the preheated grill, turning frequently and basting often with reserved marinade mixture, until no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of chicken should read at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

221

Calories

Fat

13g

Carbs

29g

Protein

Complement

The name "jerk" comes from the Jamaican cooking technique of rubbing or "jerking" the marinated meat with a special blend of spices before grilling it over a wood fire. This method not only infuses the chicken with a bold and smoky flavor, but also creates a tender and juicy texture that keeps people coming back for more. Whether enjoyed at a roadside jerk stand in Jamaica or at a Caribbean restaurant abroad, Jamaican Jerk Chicken is a beloved dish that is sure to tantalize the taste buds with its fiery and aromatic flavors.