Jamaican Jerk Chicken
Fiery, aromatic grilled chicken with authentic Jamaican jerk seasoning
By RecipesQueen Kitchen • June 10, 2026
Jamaican jerk chicken is boldly spiced and irresistibly aromatic — a fiery paste of scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, thyme, garlic, and ginger that penetrates the meat during a long marination.
Traditionally cooked over pimento wood, a grill with some wood chips will give you that authentic smoky char.
Marinate at least 4 hours (overnight is best) for the deepest flavor.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs chicken legs and thighs
- 4 whole scotch bonnet peppers
- 6 cloves garlic
- 1 tbsp ground allspice
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 3 stalks green onions
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- 1
Blend all seasonings (peppers, garlic, allspice, thyme, ginger, onions, soy, lime, sugar, cinnamon) into a paste.
- 2
Score chicken and rub paste all over. Marinate 4 hours or overnight.
- 3
Grill over medium-high heat with the lid closed, turning occasionally, for 30-35 minutes until 165°F.
- 4
Let rest 5 minutes. The outside should be charred and caramelized.
- 5
Serve with rice and peas, coleslaw, and fried plantains.
