How to Make Authentic Jamaican Jerk Chicken: From Scratch

scotch bonnet peppers

🥗Healthier: habanero peppers

💰Cheaper: jalapeño peppers

Habaneros maintain heat while being more accessible.

brown sugar

🥗Healthier: coconut sugar

💰Cheaper: white sugar

Coconut sugar offers a lower glycemic index.

soy sauce

🥗Healthier: tamari

💰Cheaper: liquid aminos

Tamari is gluten-free while maintaining flavor.

jerk seasoning

🥗Healthier: homemade spice blend

💰Cheaper: store-bought seasoning

Homemade blends can control sodium and additives.

Cut up some Scotch Bonnet pepper, onion, and lime for the marinade.

Add pimento berries, garlic, salt, cinnamon powder, nutmeg, and brown sugar to the mixture.

Season the chicken with all-purpose seasoning.

Prepare a bowl with some water to wash the ingredients before blending.

Blend the ingredients until smooth, in batches if necessary due to blender size.

Add the blended mixture to a container with fresh thyme.

Massage the marinade into the chicken, ensuring to pull back the skin for better flavor penetration.

Prepare the grill by cleaning it and lighting it up, using a zinc piece to line the bottom for authentic jerk cooking.

Place the chicken on the grill, brushing it with leftover marinade.

Slow cook the chicken on the grill, ensuring it gets a nice char and smoky flavor from the wood.

Add pimento leaves on top of the chicken for additional flavor during cooking.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary