Perfect Baked Jerk Chicken

Name: Perfect Baked Jerk Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Jamaican
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon allspice; 1 tablespoon dried thyme; 2 teaspoons sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 lime, juiced; 2 Scotch bonnet peppers, seeded and chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 green onions, chopped; 1 inch fresh ginger, grated; 1.5 kg chicken drumsticks (skin on)

60 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Savour the flavours of Jamaica with this deliciously spiced and perfectly baked jerk chicken recipe.

Prep

15 min

Cook

45 min

Total

60 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Jerk chicken is a classic Jamaican dish known for its spicy, smoky, and aromatic flavours. Traditionally cooked over an open flame, this baked version captures the essence of jerk with a convenient twist. By baking the chicken, you can enjoy the bold, complex flavours of jerk seasoning without the need for a grill. This recipe is perfect for anyone seeking a taste of the Caribbean in their own kitchen, offering a balance of heat, tang, and savouriness that's sure to delight.

Instructions

Prepare the marinade

In a blender, combine allspice, thyme, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, pepper, soy sauce, oil, lime juice, Scotch bonnet peppers, garlic, green onions, and ginger. Blend until smooth.

Pro tip: Adjust the number of Scotch bonnet peppers to control the spice level.

Marinate the chicken

Place the chicken drumsticks in a large resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal the bag, and massage the marinade into the chicken. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

Pro tip: Marinating overnight allows the flavours to fully penetrate the chicken.

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).

Prepare the baking sheet

Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the marinated chicken drumsticks on the rack.

Pro tip: The wire rack allows air circulation for even cooking.

Bake the chicken

Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F) and the skin is crispy.

Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

Rest and serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Pro tip: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of Scotch bonnet peppers.
Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavour.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes jerk chicken 'perfect'?

Perfect jerk chicken balances heat, smokiness, and aromatic spices, and achieves juicy meat with crispy skin.

How long should I marinate jerk chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but for best results, marinate overnight.

What temperature should jerk chicken be baked at?

Bake jerk chicken at 190°C (375°F) to cook it evenly while achieving crispy skin.

How can I reduce the spice level?

To reduce the spice level, use fewer Scotch bonnet peppers or substitute with milder peppers.

How many calories are in a serving of jerk chicken?

A serving of baked jerk chicken contains approximately 320 calories.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this baked jerk chicken with traditional sides like rice and peas, or a simple green salad to complement the strong flavours. For a complete meal, pair it with a refreshing drink like ginger beer or a cold lager. This dish can be prepared ahead by marinating the chicken and storing it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep.

Nutrition per serving

320

Calories

35g

Protein

18g

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