Spicy Caribbean Jerk Chicken Delight
Indulge in the bold flavors of the Caribbean with this Spicy Jerk Chicken Delight. This recipe is a vibrant celebration of heat and flavor, featuring fiery Scotch bonnet chilies that create an electrifying kick. Perfect for gatherings, this dish brings a taste of the tropics to your table. If you prefer a milder spice level, simply substitute Scotch bonnet with jalapeno peppers. The chicken benefits from a long marinade, allowing the spices to permeate every bite and resulting in juicy, perfectly grilled meat. Serve it with a refreshing mango or pineapple salsa for a beautiful contrast that enhances the dish. This recipe caters well to large appetites and can easily be adjusted to serve any number of guests. Let the adventure of grilling transport you to sun-soaked beaches with each delicious bite.
N/A
Servings
340
Calories
17
Ingredients
Ingredients
Scallions
8 (chopped)
Garlic cloves
4 large (chopped)
Scotch bonnet chilies
3 (chopped)
Onion
1 small (chopped)
Dark brown sugar
1/4 cup (none)
Thyme
2 tablespoons (chopped)
Ground allspice
2 tablespoons (none)
Freshly grated nutmeg
1 1/4 teaspoons (none)
Cinnamon
1 teaspoon (none)
White vinegar
1/2 cup (none)
Soy sauce
1/4 cup (none)
Fresh lime juice
1/4 cup (none)
Fresh orange juice
1/4 cup (none)
Vegetable oil
1/4 cup (none)
Whole chickens
3 (approx. 4 pounds each) (cut into 8 pieces)
Kosher salt
to taste (none)
Freshly ground black pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
In a food processor, combine all ingredients from scallions to vegetable oil. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.
2
Place the chicken pieces into a large mixing bowl, then pour the marinade over the chicken. Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated.
3
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to intensify.
4
The next day, prepare your grill: preheat it to moderately high heat.
5
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off while keeping a generous coating on each piece.
6
Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper onto the chicken to enhance the flavors.
7
Grill the chicken, turning frequently, for about 30 minutes or until the skin is beautifully charred and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
8
Once grilled, transfer the chicken to a serving platter and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
20g
Fat
14g
Carbs
24g
Protein
0.8g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spicy Caribbean Jerk Chicken Delight?
It is a vibrant Caribbean-inspired dish featuring a bold, spicy marinade and perfectly grilled chicken.
What provides the heat in this recipe?
The primary heat source is three Scotch bonnet chilies, known for their fiery and electrifying kick.
How can I make the chicken less spicy?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute the Scotch bonnet chilies with jalapeno peppers.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
The chicken should be covered and refrigerated overnight to allow the spices to fully permeate the meat.
What equipment is needed for the marinade?
A food processor is used to blend the scallions, garlic, chilies, and other marinade ingredients into a smooth paste.
What are the signature spices in the jerk seasoning?
Key spices include ground allspice, freshly grated nutmeg, cinnamon, and fresh thyme.
What liquids are used in the marinade?
The marinade includes white vinegar, soy sauce, fresh lime juice, fresh orange juice, and vegetable oil.
How much chicken does this recipe require?
The recipe calls for 3 whole chickens, each approximately 4 pounds, cut into 8 pieces.
What temperature should the grill be set to?
The grill should be preheated to a moderately high heat.
How long does it take to grill the chicken?
Grilling takes about 30 minutes, turning frequently until the skin is charred and the meat is cooked through.
What is the safe internal temperature for the chicken?
The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
When should I season the chicken with salt and pepper?
Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper onto the chicken just before placing it on the grill.
Why should the chicken rest after grilling?
Resting for a few minutes allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender meat.
What are some recommended side dishes?
This dish pairs beautifully with a refreshing mango or pineapple salsa for a sweet and spicy contrast.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 340 calories.
What is the protein content per serving?
There are 24 grams of protein in each serving of this jerk chicken.
How much fat is in this dish?
Each serving contains 20 grams of fat.
What is the carbohydrate count?
Each serving provides 14 grams of carbohydrates.
Is there any fiber in this recipe?
Yes, there is approximately 0.8 grams of fiber per serving.
What type of sugar is used in the marinade?
1/4 cup of dark brown sugar is used to add sweetness and help with caramelization.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
The recipe requires 4 large garlic cloves, chopped.
Can I adjust the quantity of the recipe?
Yes, the recipe can be easily adjusted to serve any number of guests.
Should I remove the marinade before grilling?
Allow excess marinade to drip off, but keep a generous coating on each piece for maximum flavor.
What type of onions are used?
The recipe uses both 8 chopped scallions and 1 small chopped onion.
What type of oil should I use?
Vegetable oil is recommended for the marinade base.
Is it necessary to use freshly grated nutmeg?
The recipe calls for 1 1/4 teaspoons of freshly grated nutmeg for the best flavor profile.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
The recipe specifies fresh lime juice for the most vibrant tropical taste.
Is this recipe suitable for summer?
Yes, it is tagged for summer grilling and is perfect for outdoor tropical-themed gatherings.
What kind of vinegar works best?
White vinegar is the preferred choice for providing the necessary acidity in the jerk paste.
How many chickens do I need for a large gathering?
This specific recipe uses 3 whole chickens, providing a substantial amount for large appetites.