How To Make Jamaican Jerk Chicken In The Oven
Recipe Overview
Overview
Jamaican Jerk Chicken is a vibrant dish that captures the essence of Caribbean cooking. The marinade is a key component, blending fresh ingredients like garlic, ginger, and scotch bonnet peppers to create a spicy yet aromatic flavor profile. The use of fresh thyme and scallions adds a depth of flavor that is both refreshing and savory.
The preparation involves marinating the chicken, which can be done overnight for the best results. This not only infuses the meat with flavor but also ensures it remains juicy during cooking. The chicken is then baked, allowing the spices to caramelize and create a beautiful char, reminiscent of traditional grilling methods.
Once cooked, the jerk chicken is served with a rich sauce made from the marinade, enhancing its flavor even further. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, bringing a taste of Jamaica to your table. Pair it with some fried dumplings or festival for a complete meal that is sure to impress.
Overall, this recipe is not just about the food; it’s about the experience of cooking and sharing a beloved dish that holds cultural significance. Whether you’re familiar with Jamaican cuisine or trying it for the first time, this jerk chicken is a must-try that will leave you craving more.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Gather chicken quarters, fresh seasonings, and other ingredients.
Tip: You can use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a different flavor.
Add garlic, scallion, ginger, scotch bonnet pepper, pimento seeds, vinegar, lemon juice, and sugar to a blender.
Blend the ingredients until smooth.
Remove excess fat from the chicken and wash it with lemon juice.
Use a paper towel to remove excess water from the chicken.
Mix the chicken with the wet jerk marinade thoroughly.
Let the chicken marinate for at least an hour.
Tip: Let the chicken marinate overnight for better flavor.
Line a baking pan with foil and add a grill.
Pour water into the baking pan to steam the chicken.
Add fresh thyme to the bottom of the baking pan.
Tip: Adding a grill to the baking pan helps the chicken cook more authentically.
Place the chicken skin side down on the grill in the baking pan.
Bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 180°C for 35 minutes.
Remove the chicken from the oven and turn it over.
Baste the chicken with the jerk marinade from the pan.
Return the chicken to the oven for an additional 30 minutes.
Blend leftover marinade with water and add to a pot.
Add ketchup and sugar to the pot and mix well.
Allow the sauce to come to a boil for at least 5 minutes.
Tip: Allow the sauce to boil for at least 5 minutes to thicken properly.
Transfer the jerk chicken to a plate.
Pour the gravy over the jerk chicken.
Tip: Chop the jerk chicken for a more authentic presentation.
Garnish the chicken with scallions for presentation.
Serve the jerk chicken with sides like bread or dumplings.
Ingredients
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Jerk chicken is traditionally marinated with a blend of spices and herbs, including allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers.
- •Marinating chicken overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness.
- •Browning sauce adds color and depth to the jerk chicken.
- •Using a grill or a baking pan with water helps keep the chicken moist during cooking.
