Grilled Caribbean Jerk Chicken Delight
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean with this Grilled Jerk Chicken Delight! This simplified version of the classic jerk chicken relies on an easy Italian dressing mix to bring a savory, tangy twist that complements the smoky char of grilled chicken. Perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or weeknight dinners, this dish is a breeze to prepare and can be marinated overnight for deeper flavor. Get ready to savor every juicy bite and transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise!
6
Servings
350
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Italian salad dressing mix
1 (envelope)
Brown sugar
2 (tablespoons)
Oil
2 (tablespoons (vegetable or olive))
Soy sauce
2 (tablespoons)
Cinnamon
1 (teaspoon)
Thyme
1 (teaspoon (dried))
Ground red pepper
1/2 (teaspoon)
Chicken pieces
2.5 (lbs (your choice of thighs, drumsticks, or breasts))
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Italian salad dressing mix, brown sugar, oil, soy sauce, cinnamon, thyme, and ground red pepper. Stir until well blended.
2
Place the chicken pieces in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated.
3
Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate to marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
4
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
5
Grill the chicken pieces for about 6-8 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have a nice char.
6
Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
7
Serve hot and enjoy the delicious, smoky, and spicy flavors of your Caribbean jerk chicken!
Nutrition Information
20g
Fat
15g
Carbs
25g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Grilled Caribbean Jerk Chicken Delight?
It is a vibrant, simplified version of classic jerk chicken that uses Italian dressing mix to create a savory, tangy, and smoky flavor profile.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 6 people.
What are the core ingredients for the jerk marinade?
The marinade consists of Italian salad dressing mix, brown sugar, oil, soy sauce, cinnamon, thyme, and ground red pepper.
What type of chicken should I use?
You can use 2.5 lbs of your choice of chicken pieces, such as thighs, drumsticks, or breasts.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
You should marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, though marinating it overnight is recommended for the deepest flavor.
What is the recommended grilling temperature?
The grill should be preheated to medium-high heat before adding the chicken.
What is the safe internal temperature for the chicken?
The chicken is safely cooked once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How long does the chicken take to grill?
Grilling typically takes about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken pieces.
Is this jerk chicken recipe spicy?
The recipe includes 1/2 teaspoon of ground red pepper, giving it a mild to moderate heat that complements the sweetness of the brown sugar.
Can I use olive oil for the marinade?
Yes, you can use either vegetable oil or olive oil for the marinade.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 350 calories.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides 25g of protein.
How much fat is in this recipe?
There are 20g of fat per serving in this dish.
Does this recipe contain carbohydrates?
Yes, there are 15g of carbohydrates per serving, primarily from the brown sugar in the marinade.
Why do I need to let the chicken rest after grilling?
Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
What makes the flavor 'Caribbean' in this recipe?
The combination of cinnamon, thyme, and red pepper creates the signature warm and spicy aromatic profile associated with Caribbean cuisine.
Can I bake this chicken if I don't have a grill?
While the recipe focuses on grilling for a smoky char, you can bake the marinated chicken in an oven at 400°F until it reaches 165°F.
Should I wash the marinade off before grilling?
No, simply remove the chicken from the marinade and allow any excess to drip off before placing it on the grill.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy chicken recipe because it uses a pre-made dressing mix to simplify the seasoning process.
Can I use fresh thyme instead of dried?
Yes, you can substitute fresh thyme; typically, you would use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.
What equipment do I need to mix the marinade?
A large mixing bowl and a stirring utensil are all you need to combine the ingredients.
Is the Italian dressing mix essential?
The Italian dressing mix is a key shortcut for this specific recipe, providing a complex base of herbs and tanginess.
Can I make this recipe for a BBQ party?
Absolutely, it is specifically noted as being perfect for summer barbecues and family gatherings.
What kind of soy sauce is best?
Standard soy sauce works well, but you can use a low-sodium version if you want to reduce the salt content.
Does this recipe use any tropical fruit?
While it features tropical flavors through its spice blend, it does not contain actual fruit in the marinade.
Is the chicken skinless or skin-on?
The recipe works with both, though keeping the skin on can help keep the chicken moist during the high-heat grilling process.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I increase the amount of red pepper?
Yes, if you prefer a spicier 'jerk' kick, you can increase the ground red pepper to 1 teaspoon or more.
Is this dish served hot or cold?
This dish is best served hot immediately after the resting period.
What is the total ingredient count?
The recipe requires 8 total ingredients including the chicken and spices.