Jamaican Chicken

If you’ve ever been captivated by the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean, then Jamaican Chicken is sure to resonate with your culinary spirit. I remember the first time I experienced this dish; it was at a local festival celebrating Jamaican heritage. The sweet and spicy aromas wafted through the air, pulling me closer to the stall where this beauty was being prepared. Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavor, and I knew I had to recreate it at home.

This wonderful dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The key to achieving that authentic taste lies in the marinade, which beautifully marries the heat of chilli with the freshness of lime and the earthy tones of thyme. I love how this recipe brings together these ingredients, transforming simple chicken into something extraordinary. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, it’s bound to impress.

The best part? It’s incredibly versatile! You can serve it with a variety of sides, making it perfect for any occasion. I remember one summer evening, I prepared it alongside a refreshing salad and some coconut rice, and the combination was simply divine. This dish is more than just food; it’s a celebration of flavors that will transport you straight to Jamaica with every bite.

So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the mouthwatering taste of Jamaican Chicken. Your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients to Make Jamaican Chicken

To create the perfect Jamaican Chicken, selecting the right ingredients is crucial. Each component plays a vital role in bringing out the authentic flavors of the dish. The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the chicken, marinated with a blend of fresh herbs and spices that elevate it to new heights.

• 1 spring onion – Adds a mild onion flavor that complements the spices.
• 2 red chillies – Introduces spice; feel free to add more if you love heat!
• 2 cm piece of ginger – Provides a warm, fragrant hint that enhances the marinade.
• 4 garlic cloves – Brings depth and richness to the flavor profile.
• 1 bunch of coriander – Fresh leaves for garnish and stalks for the marinade add vibrant flavor.
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves – Essential for that signature Jamaican taste.
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme – Enhances the earthiness of the dish.
• 2 teaspoons ground mixed spice – A blend that typically includes allspice, enhancing the dish’s warmth and sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon dried chilli flakes – For an extra kick!
• 2 tablespoons lime juice – Adds acidity and brightness to the marinade.
• 1 teaspoon raw unprocessed honey – Balances the flavors with a touch of sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for seasoning the dish.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps the marinade adhere to the chicken.
• 4 chicken marylands – The main protein; includes the thigh and drumstick, offering juicy, tender meat.
• 1 whole lime – For serving and added flavor.

Cooking Method for Jamaican Chicken

Cooking Jamaican Chicken is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious dish!

1. Start by roughly chopping the spring onion and red chillies. Place them in the bowl of a food processor. You want to make sure they’re in small enough pieces to blend well with the other ingredients.

2. Next, peel the garlic and ginger, adding them to the food processor as well. This will contribute distinct flavors, enhancing the overall profile of your marinade.

3. Cut the stalks off the coriander and add them to the processor. Remember to reserve the leaves for later—they will be used for garnish!

4. Give the mixture a quick pulse until it’s roughly combined. This should take only a few seconds; you want it to be chunky, not pureed.

5. Now, add the fresh and dried thyme, mixed spice, chilli flakes, lime juice, honey, salt, and olive oil to the processor. Process this until you have a smooth(ish) marinade. You’re aiming for a thick paste that will coat the chicken beautifully.

6. Place the chicken pieces into a large non-metallic bowl and pour the marinade over them. Make sure every piece is well coated; this will make for the most flavorful dish.

7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least four hours, or even overnight if you can. The longer it marinates, the better the flavor will be!

8. When you’re ready to cook, pre-heat your oven to 200°C/180°C fan forced/Gas mark 6. This temperature will ensure a nice roast.

9. Line a baking tin with cooking paper and arrange the marinated chicken pieces so they’re not overlapping. This will help them cook evenly and get that lovely roasted color.

10. Roast the chicken for an hour. You’ll know it’s done when the skin is crispy and golden, and the meat is cooking through.

11. Once out of the oven, sprinkle the reserved coriander leaves over the chicken for freshness and serve with plenty of lime wedges. The finishing touch brings everything together beautifully.

Ways to Customize

Customizing your Jamaican Chicken is not just possible, it’s encouraged! Here are some fun ways to make this dish your own:

• Add Extra Spice: If you love heat, consider adding more chillies or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini or tofu for a plant-based version.
• Change the Protein: You can also use shrimp or fish for a seafood twist that pairs wonderfully with these flavors.
• Herb Variations: Explore different herbs like basil or oregano to give the marinade a unique flavor profile.
• Serving Style: Serve the chicken in tacos or on skewers for a fun, casual meal.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking for a quick meal later; just thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Great Combinations for Jamaican Chicken

When it comes to serving Jamaican Chicken, the options are as vibrant as the dish itself! Here are some delightful pairings to consider:

• Rice and Peas: This is a classic Jamaican side that complements the flavors of the chicken perfectly.
• Coconut Rice: For a tropical twist, serve your chicken with creamy coconut rice.
• Coleslaw: A fresh coleslaw adds a crunchy texture and balances the richness of the dish.
• Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled vegetables make a colorful and healthy accompaniment.
• Salad: A light salad with lime dressing will refresh the palate and enhance the meal.
• Casual Gatherings: This dish is perfect for BBQs, picnics, or family gatherings, striking the right balance between casual and special.
• Seasonal Pairing: Enjoy it in summer with refreshing sides or in winter with hearty accompaniments.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Jamaican Chicken is a vibrant dish that captures the essence of Caribbean flavors, making it a true delight for the senses. I encourage you to try making it at home; it’s sure to bring a taste of Jamaica to your table. Enjoy the process, savor each bite, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family for a memorable meal!

Jamaican Chicken

The ultimate comfort food with a spicy kick, Jamaican Chicken is an easy weeknight dinner that bursts with flavor. Marinated to perfection, it’s a dish that brings the taste of the Caribbean right to your home. Make it tonight for a meal that’s sure to impress!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Caribbean

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Food Processor
• Peeler
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 1 spring onion
• 2 red chillies Add an extra 2 if you love your food with a major spice kick
• 2 cm piece ginger
• 4 garlic cloves
• 1 bunch coriander
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons ground mixed spice
• 1 teaspoon dried chilli flakes
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon raw unprocessed honey
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 chicken marylands See notes
• 1 whole lime

Instructions

 

• Roughly chop the spring onion and red chillies and place in the bowl of a food processor.
• Peel the garlic and ginger and add to the processor.
• Cut the stalks off the coriander and add the stalks to the processor. Keep the leaves for later.
• Give this a quick pulse then add the fresh thyme, dried thyme, mixed spice, chilli flakes, lime juice, honey, salt, and olive oil.
• Process this until you have a smooth(ish) marinade.
• Place the chicken pieces into a large non-metallic bowl and add the marinade.
• Cover and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.
• Pre-heat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan forced/Gas mark 6.
• Line a baking tin with cooking paper and arrange the chicken so they aren't overlapping.
• Roast the chicken for an hour.
• Remove from the oven and serve sprinkled with fresh coriander and plenty of lime wedges.

Notes

• Chicken marylands: Chicken marylands are what we call the cut of chicken that includes the thigh and the drumstick. Sometimes called chicken quarters.

Keyword Caribbean chicken dish, easy Jamaican meal, Jamaican Chicken recipe, marinated chicken recipe

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Meet Hanna Hart

I am obsessed with the “how” and “why” of cooking. It doesn’t matter if we are roasting a chicken or baking brownies; I am the one double-checking our measurements and cooking times. I love working on every type of cuisine and finding the absolute best method to get the results we want. I treat every recipe with the same level of care and dedication.