Get ready to bring the flavors of the Caribbean straight to your kitchen with this irresistible Jamaican Style Chicken recipe! Succulent bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks are marinated in an aromatic blend of scallions, fresh thyme, garlic, ginger, and fiery Scotch bonnet peppers, combined with warm spices like allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. A touch of soy sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar creates the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. Whether grilled to perfection or baked until golden, this dish bursts with bold island-inspired tastes. Perfectly paired with classic sides like rice and peas or fried plantains, this crowd-pleasing dish is a must-try for an authentic Jamaican dining experience. Ideal for weekend cookouts or any meal begging for a tropical twist!
In a blender or food processor, combine scallions, thyme, garlic, ginger, Scotch bonnet peppers, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vegetable oil. Blend until a smooth paste forms.
Rinse and pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 375°F (190°C).
If grilling, lightly oil the grill grates and cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For oven baking, place the chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with rice and peas, fried plantains, or a fresh salad for a complete Jamaican-style meal.
Calories |
2307 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 135.9 g | 174% | |
| Saturated Fat | 34.2 g | 171% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 16.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 744 mg | 248% | |
| Sodium | 4763 mg | 207% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 38.5 g | 14% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.2 g | 15% | |
| Total Sugars | 20.7 g | ||
| Protein | 222.5 g | 445% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.4 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 211 mg | 16% | |
| Iron | 12.0 mg | 67% | |
| Potassium | 2303 mg | 49% | |
*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.