Jamaican Jerk BBQ Chicken Delight
Experience the vibrant flavors of Jamaica with this Jerk BBQ Chicken Delight, featuring a zesty marinade bursting with fresh herbs and spices. Perfectly grilled to juicy perfection, this dish not only elevates your grilling game but also brings a taste of the Caribbean into your kitchen. Ideal for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or a weeknight dinner, this recipe serves two and is a delectable way to enjoy chicken with a spicy twist.
2
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Scallions
8 medium (finely chopped)
Garlic
2 cloves (minced)
Scotch Bonnet Pepper
1/2-1 (seeded and finely chopped or use 1/2-1 teaspoon of scotch bonnet hot sauce)
Soy Sauce
1 1/2 tablespoons
Vegetable Oil
1 tablespoon
Sweet Paprika
1 tablespoon
Thyme
1 teaspoon
Salt
1/2 teaspoon
Fresh Ground Pepper
1/2 teaspoon
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
2 lbs
Instructions
1
In a food processor, combine scallions, garlic, scotch bonnet pepper, soy sauce, vegetable oil, sweet paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Puree until a smooth paste is formed.
2
Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts in a sturdy plastic bag and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag and massage the marinade into the chicken to coat evenly.
3
Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for 12 to 24 hours, turning the bag occasionally to ensure all pieces are well-coated.
4
Preheat your grill or broiler to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any remaining marinade.
5
Grill or broil the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
6
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your flavorful Jamaican Jerk BBQ Chicken Delight!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Jamaican Jerk BBQ Chicken Delight?
It is a vibrant Caribbean dish featuring chicken marinated in a zesty paste made from scallions, scotch bonnet peppers, and herbs, then grilled to perfection.
What are the key ingredients in the jerk marinade?
The marinade includes scallions, garlic, scotch bonnet pepper, soy sauce, vegetable oil, sweet paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, you should marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for 12 to 24 hours.
Can I substitute the Scotch Bonnet pepper?
Yes, if you cannot find fresh peppers, you can use 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of scotch bonnet hot sauce instead.
What is the best way to make the marinade paste?
Combine all the marinade ingredients in a food processor and puree until a smooth paste is formed.
Is this recipe very spicy?
It has a spicy kick due to the scotch bonnet pepper, but you can adjust the heat by using less pepper or removing the seeds.
How do I cook the chicken?
You can grill or broil the chicken on medium-high heat for about 6-8 minutes per side.
What temperature should the chicken reach?
The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to be considered fully cooked.
Should I let the chicken rest after cooking?
Yes, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing helps keep the meat juicy.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to serve 2 people.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can substitute the 2 lbs of chicken breasts with boneless skinless chicken thighs if preferred.
What type of oil should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, which helps the marinade adhere to the meat.
Can I use dried thyme?
Yes, you can use 1 teaspoon of thyme; dried thyme works perfectly for this marinade.
How should I prepare the scallions?
The recipe suggests using 8 medium scallions that are finely chopped before being pureed.
Is it okay to use the leftover marinade as a sauce?
No, you should discard any marinade that has been in contact with raw chicken for food safety reasons.
What kind of paprika is used?
This recipe uses 1 tablespoon of sweet paprika for color and mild flavor.
How do I ensure the chicken is evenly coated?
Place the chicken and marinade in a sturdy plastic bag, seal it, and massage the marinade into the meat.
What can I serve with Jamaican Jerk Chicken?
It pairs wonderfully with traditional Caribbean sides like rice and peas, fried plantains, or a fresh garden salad.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, the marinated chicken can be prepared in advance and cooked when needed, making it great for summer barbecues.
Can I make this if I don't have a grill?
Yes, you can use the broiler setting in your oven to achieve similar results.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe requires 2 cloves of garlic, minced.
What makes this chicken 'Jamaican'?
The use of scotch bonnet peppers, scallions, and thyme are signature components of Jamaican jerk seasoning.
Can I freeze the chicken in the marinade?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken in the sealed marinade bag for later use; just ensure it thaws completely before grilling.
How do I handle scotch bonnet peppers safely?
It is recommended to wear gloves when handling hot peppers to avoid skin irritation and to keep hands away from your eyes.
What flavor profile can I expect?
Expect a complex profile that is spicy, savory, and aromatic with a hint of saltiness from the soy sauce.
Is this a gluten-free recipe?
To make it gluten-free, ensure you use a gluten-free certified soy sauce or tamari.
What happens if I marinate for less than 12 hours?
The flavor may not be as deep or intense, but it will still be tasty if marinated for at least 2-4 hours.
Is this recipe good for family gatherings?
Yes, it's an ideal dish for summer barbecues and family dinners, and the recipe can be easily doubled to serve more people.
Should I use fresh or ground pepper?
The recipe specifically calls for 1/2 teaspoon of fresh ground pepper for the best flavor profile.
Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
Yes, you can bake it at 400°F (200°C) until it reaches the safe internal temperature, though you will miss the smoky grill marks.