It’s an easy weeknight recipe that I make over and over again because it’s so wonderfully flavorful. Even the leftovers are excellent. I got the idea to make jerk chicken back in 2015 while reading the fascinating memoir by chef Marcus Samuelsson, “Yes, Chef.” Mr. Samuelsson mentions “jerk seasoning” in the book. Back then, I had no idea what it was and was intrigued. A quick internet search taught me that this Jamaican seasoning is made of an interesting list of various spices. The following recipe is my own interpretation and is based on this recipe by Aaron McCargo Jr. I have made it many times over the years, and it’s always a huge success.
Ingredients
Variations
You can use skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs in this recipe. They’ll need around 40-45 minutes in the oven, depending on their size. Check with a thermometer to make sure they are done, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F when not touching the bone. You can replace the coconut oil with ghee or avocado oil. Maple syrup is a good substitute for honey in this recipe.
Instructions
Storing Leftovers
You can keep the leftovers in the fridge, in an airtight container, for 3-4 days. To avoid drying out the chicken, reheat them very gently, covered, in the microwave at 50% power, or enjoy them cold, picnic-style.
Coconut oil: Refined oil is best given the high oven temperature. You can also use avocado oil. Honey: Just two tablespoons, ensuring the seasoning is not too sweet. To season: Kosher salt, black pepper, allspice, cinnamon, red pepper flakes, ground cloves, and ground cumin. Chicken: I usually use chicken drumsticks, leaving the skin on. Optional: Chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish.
Combine all the ingredients except for the chicken to make a flavorful seasoning paste. Spread the paste all over the chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired) and serve. It’s also convenient to serve jerk chicken with a side dish that can be cooked in the same 400°F oven, like roasted frozen cauliflower, roasted asparagus, jicama fries, or roasted carrots.
More Chicken Recipes
Recipe Card
