Jamaican Chicken Thighs
Transport your taste buds to the Caribbean with these irresistible Jamaican Chicken Thighs, a savory and spicy delight that’s perfect for dinner. This recipe features tender, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs marinated in a vibrant blend of scallions, fresh thyme, garlic, ginger, and the fiery kick of habanero or Scotch bonnet peppers—balanced by warm spices like allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sweetened with brown sugar and brightened with fresh lime juice, the marinade infuses deep, complex flavors into the chicken as it rests. The thighs are then seared to golden perfection and roasted until juicy and fall-off-the-bone tender. Serve them with classic sides like coconut rice and peas or fried plantains for a true taste of Jamaica. With bold flavors and simple preparation, this recipe will make a stunning addition to your weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Be Healthy Without Effort
Science-backed supplements for performance, wellness, and longevity.
Optimize your body chemistry naturally
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 6 pieces Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 6 stalks Scallions (green onions)
- 2 teaspoons Fresh thyme leaves
- 4 cloves Garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon Fresh ginger
- 1 whole (seeded and minced, optional for less heat) Habanero or Scotch bonnet pepper
- 2 teaspoons Ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon Ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons Brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
Instructions
In a blender or food processor, combine scallions, thyme, garlic, ginger, habanero pepper, ground allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, soy sauce, lime juice, vegetable oil, salt, and black pepper. Blend into a smooth marinade.
Place the chicken thighs into a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken and thoroughly coat each piece. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors penetrate.
When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly grease the skillet with vegetable oil if needed.
Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade (shaking off any excess) and place them skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for about 3-4 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crisp.
Flip the chicken thighs and sear the other side for another 2 minutes.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve hot with your choice of sides, such as rice and peas, fried plantains, or a crisp green salad.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
285 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 19.6 g | 25% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.7 g | 23% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 80 mg | 27% | |
| Sodium | 591 mg | 26% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 8.8 g | 3% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.3 g | 5% | |
| Total Sugars | 5.1 g | ||
| Protein | 19.2 g | 38% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 45 mg | 3% | |
| Iron | 1.6 mg | 9% | |
| Potassium | 324 mg | 7% | |
*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.
