jerk chickengrilled spicy marinated chicken hot and spicy
Jocelyn Floris
Ingredients
Here’s a list of ingredients for **Jerk Chicken** (grilled spicy marinated chicken) in a SEO-friendly format, optimized for keywords like "spicy jerk chicken," "grilled jerk chicken," and "hot and spicy chicken marinade":
- **Chicken pieces** (thighs, drumsticks, or whole chicken)
- **Scotch bonnet peppers** (or habanero peppers for heat)
- **Fresh garlic cloves** (minced or crushed)
- **Fresh ginger** (grated or minced)
- **Green onions** (chopped, including the green tops)
- **Fresh thyme leaves** (or dried thyme as a substitute)
- **Ground allspice** (key spice for authentic jerk flavor)
- **Ground cinnamon** (for warmth and depth)
- **Ground nutmeg** (adds a hint of sweetness)
- **Brown sugar** (for caramelization and balance)
- **Soy sauce** (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
- **Lime juice** (freshly squeezed for acidity)
- **Orange juice** (adds sweetness and tang)
- **White vinegar** (for tanginess and tenderizing)
- **Olive oil** (or vegetable oil for the marinade base)
- **Salt** (to taste)
- **Black pepper** (freshly ground for spice)
- **Optional: Smoked paprika** (for a smoky flavor)
- **Optional: Pimento wood or charcoal** (for authentic grilling)
This ingredient list is perfect for creating **hot and spicy jerk chicken** that’s flavorful, tender, and grilled to perfection. Use these keywords in your recipe title, meta description, and headings for better SEO performance!
Steps
# How to Make Jerk Chicken: Grilled Spicy Marinated Chicken (Hot & Spicy Recipe)
Jerk chicken is a flavorful, spicy Caribbean dish that’s perfect for grilling enthusiasts. This recipe combines bold spices, fiery heat, and a smoky char for an unforgettable meal. Follow these detailed steps to create authentic jerk chicken at home.
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## **Ingredients for Jerk Chicken Marinade**
- 3 lbs chicken (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)
- 6 scallions (green onions), chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers (or habanero peppers for heat)
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup lime juice (or lemon juice)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp ground allspice
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Prepare the Jerk Marinade**
1. In a blender or food processor, combine scallions, garlic, Scotch bonnet peppers, ginger, soy sauce, lime juice, olive oil, brown sugar, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, thyme, black pepper, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth. Adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer Scotch bonnet peppers.
### **2. Marinate the Chicken**
1. Place the chicken in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag.
2. Pour the jerk marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated.
3. Cover or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is ideal for maximum flavor).
### **3. Preheat the Grill**
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F to 400°F).
2. For an authentic smoky flavor, add wood chips (like pimento or hickory) to the grill.
### **4. Grill the Chicken**
1. Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off excess liquid.
2. Place the chicken on the grill, skin-side down, and cook for 6-8 minutes per side.
3. Baste the chicken with leftover marinade during the first 10 minutes of grilling.
4. Grill until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken has a charred, crispy exterior.
### **5. Rest and Serve**
1. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
2. Serve with traditional sides like rice and peas, grilled pineapple, or a fresh salad.
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## **Tips for Perfect Jerk Chicken**
- **Adjust Heat Level:** Use fewer Scotch bonnet peppers for milder heat or add more for extra spice.
- **Grill Alternatives:** If you don’t have a grill, use a grill pan or bake in the oven at 400°F for 25-30 minutes.
- **Storage:** Store leftover jerk chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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## **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
This jerk chicken recipe is packed with bold, spicy flavors and is perfect for summer BBQs or weeknight dinners. The combination of smoky, sweet, and spicy elements makes it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s gluten-free and keto-friendly with simple ingredient swaps.