How to Make Jamaican Jerk Chicken on the Grill

If you’re looking to add a burst of tropical flavor to your backyard BBQ, look no further than Jamaican jerk chicken. This spicy and aromatic dish is a staple of Caribbean cuisine and is sure to impress your guests. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making Jamaican jerk chicken on the grill, ensuring that you achieve that perfect blend of spices and smoky flavor.

Ingredients

Before you start, gather the following ingredients:

– 4 chicken thighs
– 4 chicken drumsticks
– 1 tablespoon of jerk seasoning mix (or make your own using allspice, garlic, thyme, scotch bonnet pepper, salt, and pepper)
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 lemon or lime
– 2 scotch bonnet peppers (optional, for extra heat)
– Aluminum foil

Preparation

1. Start by seasoning the chicken with the jerk seasoning mix. Make sure to coat the chicken thoroughly, both inside and out. For an extra kick, you can stuff the cavity of the chicken with a mixture of the spices and some lemon or lime juice.

2. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil with a bit of the remaining jerk seasoning. Use this mixture to baste the chicken during the grilling process.

3. If you’re using scotch bonnet peppers, chop them finely and add them to the jerk seasoning mix. This will add an extra layer of heat to the chicken.

4. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Grilling Process

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, let the coals burn until they’re covered in gray ash.

2. Place the chicken on the grill, skin-side down. Close the lid and let it cook for about 10 minutes.

3. After 10 minutes, flip the chicken over and baste it with the olive oil and jerk seasoning mixture. Continue to cook for another 10 minutes.

4. Repeat the basting process every 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked. To check for doneness, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

5. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more tender.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Jamaican jerk chicken with a side of rice and peas, roasted plantains, or a fresh coleslaw. You can also garnish the dish with additional scotch bonnet peppers or a squeeze of lemon or lime juice.

Now that you know how to make Jamaican jerk chicken on the grill, you can enjoy this flavorful dish any time you want. Happy grilling!