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Smoky Spiced Grilled Chicken (Jerk Chicken)

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20 min (plus marinating)
Prep
40 min
Cook

Ingredients

  • 1.5 kg (3.3 lb) chicken pieces
  • 4 scallions, chopped
  • 2 scotch bonnet peppers
  • 1 tbsp allspice berries, ground
  • 2 tsp fresh thyme
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 tbsp ginger, grated
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 tbsp white vinegar
  • Salt, to taste

Method

  1. Blend scallions, scotch bonnet, allspice, thyme, sugar, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, oil and vinegar into a marinade.
  2. Coat the chicken pieces thoroughly with the marinade, working it into slashes cut in the meat.
  3. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.
  4. Grill over medium heat, turning occasionally, for 35-45 minutes until charred and cooked through, moving pieces to indirect heat if browning too fast.
  5. Let rest 5 minutes before serving with festival or rice and peas.

Introduction: Jamaica's most internationally famous dish, chicken marinated in a fiery blend of scotch bonnet, allspice and thyme, traditionally smoked slowly over pimento wood.

Cultural Background: Jamaica's most internationally famous dish, chicken marinated in a fiery blend of scotch bonnet, allspice and thyme, traditionally smoked slowly over pimento wood.

Tips: Wear gloves when handling scotch bonnet peppers to avoid skin irritation. A longer marinade time develops deeper flavor – overnight is ideal for the most authentic result.

Variations: Add pimento wood chips or allspice berries to charcoal for a more traditional smoky aroma.

Storage: Refrigerate cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat gently in a covered pan over low heat or a low oven to avoid drying out the meat.

FAQs:

Q: How spicy is jerk chicken traditionally?

A: It's meant to have real heat from scotch bonnet, though the quantity can be adjusted to taste for a milder result.

Q: Can I make jerk chicken in the oven?

A: Yes, roast at 200C (400F) for about 45 minutes, though a grill (ideally with wood smoke) gives the most authentic flavor and char.

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