Caribbean Chicken Marinade
Transport your taste buds to the tropics with this vibrant Caribbean Chicken Marinade, a tangy-sweet and zesty blend that infuses your chicken with bold island flavors. Fresh lime and orange juices bring a bright citrus punch, while soy sauce and brown sugar add savory depth and subtle caramelized sweetness. Aromatics like garlic, freshly grated ginger, and thyme mingle with warm spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice—for a signature Caribbean flair. For those craving a kick, finely chopped Scotch bonnet pepper provides a fiery optional twist. This quick, 10-minute marinade is perfect for grilling, roasting, or pan-searing chicken, ensuring tender, juicy bites bursting with flavor. Ideal for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners, serve it alongside classic sides like rice and peas, fried plantains, or a crisp salad for a true Caribbean feast!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons lime juice
- 4 tablespoons orange juice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 3 units garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 unit scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 pounds boneless chicken (breasts, thighs, or drumsticks)
Instructions
In a medium mixing bowl, combine lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved.
Add minced garlic, grated ginger, scotch bonnet pepper (if using), ground allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and fresh thyme. Mix well to combine.
Season the marinade with salt and black pepper to taste.
Place the chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated.
Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 2 hours, but preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
When ready to cook, remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip back into the container. Discard the used marinade.
Cook the chicken on a preheated grill, stovetop grill pan, or in the oven, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cooking time will vary depending on the cut of chicken used.
Serve the chicken hot with your favorite sides, such as rice and peas, fried plantains, or a fresh green salad. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2065 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 75.8 g | 97% | |
| Saturated Fat | 15.7 g | 78% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 771 mg | 257% | |
| Sodium | 4198 mg | 183% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 45.5 g | 17% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.9 g | 14% | |
| Total Sugars | 25.0 g | ||
| Protein | 286.4 g | 573% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.1 mcg | 6% | |
| Calcium | 202 mg | 16% | |
| Iron | 10.6 mg | 59% | |
| Potassium | 2833 mg | 60% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
