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Easy Jerk Chicken

A flavorful jerk chicken recipe with a perfect blend of spices and zesty lime, ideal for family gatherings and casual dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Caribbean, Jamaican
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 lbs chicken pieces (leg quarters or thighs) Leg quarters or thighs work perfectly.
  • 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning Can be store-bought or homemade.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 unit lime, juiced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Begin by patting your chicken pieces dry with a paper towel.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the jerk seasoning, olive oil, lime juice, garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and allspice.
  3. Toss the chicken pieces in this mixture until they're fully coated.
  4. Let the coated chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or overnight for maximum flavor.
Cooking
  1. Preheat your grill on medium-high heat.
  2. Place the marinated chicken on the hot grill and cook for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally.
  3. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F and ensure the chicken is nicely charred on all sides.
Serving
  1. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For milder jerk chicken, adjust the seasoning to your taste. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F covered with foil to maintain moisture.