Chef Ed Recipe – Jamaican Jerk Chicken
Bold Flavor, Island Soul

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Marinate Time: 4–24 hours
Total Time: 5 hours (including marination)
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 4 drumsticks (or use all thighs or all drumsticks)

For the Jerk Marinade:

  • 6 scallions, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 2 Scotch bonnet peppers (use 1 for less heat)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tablespoon ground allspice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Make the Marinade:
In a blender or food processor, combine scallions, onion, garlic, Scotch bonnet peppers, thyme, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, lime juice, soy sauce, vinegar, oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and aromatic.

2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place chicken in a large resealable bag or bowl. Pour the jerk marinade over the chicken and rub to coat evenly. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

3. Cook the Chicken:
Preheat grill to medium-high. Remove chicken from marinade and let excess drip off. Grill chicken skin-side down first, turning occasionally, until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F/74°C), about 40–45 minutes. Baste with leftover marinade (boiled for safety) for more flavor during cooking.

4. Oven Option:
Bake chicken at 375°F (190°C) on a foil-lined sheet for 40–50 minutes, broiling the last 3–5 minutes for crispy skin.

5. Serve It Up:
Plate with coconut rice and peas, grilled plantains, or steamed cabbage. Garnish with lime wedges and a sprinkle of fresh thyme.

Chef Ed’s Notes:

This recipe brings fiery island heat and sweet aromatics in every bite. Scotch bonnet peppers are traditional, but habaneros work too. The longer the marination, the deeper the flavor. Great for cookouts or weeknight spice cravings.

 

 

 

References:

Chef Ed’s Jamaican Jerk Chicken Recipe

Chef Ed’s Jamaican Jerk Chicken Recipe