Heart-Healthy Authentic Jamaican Jerk Chicken
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean with this *Heart-Healthy Authentic Jamaican Jerk Chicken* recipe. Crafted with skinless chicken thighs and a bold marinade of fresh scallions, garlic, ginger, and traditional Jamaican spices like allspice, thyme, and nutmeg, this dish delivers an irresistible smoky heat. The addition of Scotch bonnet pepper adds a fiery kick, while lime juice and apple cider vinegar create a zesty balance. Marinated to perfection and grilled to juicy tenderness, this healthier twist on a Jamaican classic uses olive oil and low-sodium soy sauce to reduce fat and sodium levels without compromising on flavor. Ready in just over an hour, this recipe is a perfect guilt-free way to enjoy the iconic spice of jerk chicken. Serve with grilled vegetables or a crisp green salad for a heart-smart, island-inspired feast!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 6 pieces Skinless chicken thighs
- 4 stalks Scallions
- 4 cloves Garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon, minced Ginger
- 1 tablespoon Allspice berries
- 2 teaspoons Thyme leaves
- 0.5 teaspoon Cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon Nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon Cayenne pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Lime juice
- 1 whole Scotch bonnet pepper
Instructions
Begin by washing the chicken thighs and patting them dry with paper towels. Set aside.
In a blender or food processor, combine the scallions, garlic cloves, minced ginger, allspice berries, thyme leaves, cinnamon, nutmeg, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt.
Add olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and lime juice to the blender. Add in the scotch bonnet pepper, ensuring to handle with care as it is very hot.
Blend the mix until it forms a smooth marinade paste.
Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or a ziplock bag, and pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate.
Preheat your grill to medium heat.
Once preheated, place the marinated chicken thighs directly on the grill, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
Grill the chicken for about 20-25 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring they are fully cooked.
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad to complete the heart-healthy meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
912 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 57.0 g | 73% | |
| Saturated Fat | 12.8 g | 64% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 334 mg | 111% | |
| Sodium | 2467 mg | 107% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 21.9 g | 8% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.3 g | 15% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.5 g | ||
| Protein | 81.7 g | 163% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 143 mg | 11% | |
| Iron | 7.5 mg | 42% | |
| Potassium | 1237 mg | 26% | |
*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.
