Jamie Oliver Jerk Chicken

Jamie Oliver Jerk Chicken is a bold and flavorful Caribbean dish featuring marinated chicken infused with spicy, smoky, and aromatic jerk seasoning. The chicken is grilled or roasted to perfection, delivering a crispy, charred exterior and juicy, flavorful meat inside.

What is Jamie Oliver Jerk Chicken?

Jerk chicken is a classic Jamaican dish where chicken is marinated in a spicy jerk seasoning made with Scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, thyme, and other aromatic ingredients. The chicken is traditionally grilled over pimento wood for a smoky taste, but it can also be roasted or cooked on a stovetop for convenience.

Other Popular Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Butter Chicken
• Jamie Oliver Sticky Chicken
• Marry Me Chicken Recipe
• Mary Berry Cornish Pasty

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Packed with bold flavors: A mix of spices, herbs, and heat.
• Juicy and smoky: The marinade makes the chicken tender and flavorful.
• Versatile cooking methods: Can be grilled, roasted, or pan-seared.
• Great for gatherings: A fantastic dish for BBQs and family meals.
• Authentic Jamaican taste: Inspired by traditional jerk cooking techniques.

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Jerk Chicken

For the Jerk Marinade:

• Scotch bonnet peppers (2-3, finely chopped) – Adds heat and authentic flavor.
• Garlic cloves (4, minced) – Enhances aroma and depth.
• Fresh ginger (1-inch piece, grated) – Adds warmth.
• Spring onions (4, finely chopped) – Bring
• freshness.
• Thyme (2 tsp, fresh or dried) – A key Caribbean herb.
• Ground allspice (1 tsp) – Essential for jerk seasoning.
• Ground cinnamon (½ tsp) – Adds warmth and slight sweetness.
• Ground nutmeg (½ tsp) – Complements the warm spices.
• Soy sauce (3 tbsp) – Adds umami and depth.
• Brown sugar (2 tbsp) – Balances the spice.
• Lime juice (2 tbsp) – Enhances freshness.
• Olive oil (2 tbsp) – Helps blend the marinade.
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

For the Chicken:

• Chicken thighs and drumsticks (1kg, skin-on, bone-in) – Best for rich flavor and tenderness.
• Extra lime wedges (for serving)

Equipment Needed

• Food processor or blender – To make the jerk marinade.
• Mixing bowl – For marinating the chicken.
• Grill, oven, or stovetop pan – For cooking the chicken.
• Tongs – To handle the chicken while cooking.

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Jerk Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Jerk Marinade

1. In a food processor or blender, combine Scotch bonnet peppers, garlic, ginger, spring onions, thyme, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
2. Blend until you get a smooth paste. If it’s too thick, add a little more lime juice or olive oil.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

3. Place the chicken thighs and drumsticks in a large bowl or a resealable bag.
4. Pour the jerk marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is well coated.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for the best flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Jerk Chicken

Option 1: Grill (Best for Authentic Smoky Flavor)

6. Preheat a grill to medium-high heat (200°C/400°F).
7. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred on the outside and fully cooked inside.

Option 2: Oven (Easy and Convenient)

8. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
9. Place the marinated chicken on a baking tray lined with foil or parchment paper.
10. Roast for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

Option 3: Stovetop (Quick Alternative)

11. Heat a grill pan or large skillet over medium heat.
12. Add a little oil and cook the chicken for 7-8 minutes per side, until charred and fully cooked.

Step 4: Serve

13. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
14. Serve with lime wedges and classic sides like rice and peas, plantains, or coleslaw.

What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver Jerk Chicken?

• Rice and peas: A traditional Jamaican side dish.
• Fried plantains: Sweet and caramelized for contrast.
• Grilled corn on the cob: Complements the smoky flavors.
• Coleslaw: Adds a refreshing crunch.
• Flatbreads or roti: Great for wrapping pieces of chicken.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver Jerk Chicken

• Marinate overnight: The longer, the better for deep flavor.
• Use bone-in, skin-on chicken: It stays juicier during cooking.
• Control the heat: Adjust Scotch bonnet peppers based on your spice preference.
• Grill for authenticity: Charcoal grilling gives the best flavor.
• Baste with leftover marinade: Brush on extra marinade while grilling for extra juiciness.

Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver Jerk Chicken

• Mild version: Use fewer Scotch bonnets or replace them with milder chilies.
• Vegan jerk “chicken”: Use tofu, jackfruit, or cauliflower instead of chicken.
• Jerk shrimp: Marinate shrimp and grill for 3-4 minutes per side.
• Jerk chicken wings: Use the same marinade and bake or grill wings for a party-friendly dish.
• Smoky BBQ-style jerk: Add a splash of liquid smoke for extra depth.

Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver Jerk Chicken

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze-marinated raw chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw before cooking.
• Leftover use: Shred-cooked jerk chicken for wraps, salads, or tacos.

Best Practices to Reheat Jamie Oliver Jerk Chicken

• Oven method: Reheat at 180°C (350°F) for 10-12 minutes.
• Grill method: Warm on a low grill for 5 minutes per side.
• Microwave method: Heat in short 30-second bursts to avoid drying out.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver Jerk Chicken is a fiery, flavorful, and deeply aromatic dish that brings authentic Caribbean flavors to your kitchen. ]Serve it with classic sides, and enjoy a true taste of Jamaica at home!

FAQs

What makes jerk chicken different from regular grilled chicken?

Jerk chicken is marinated with a spicy, aromatic blend of Scotch bonnets, allspice, thyme, and garlic, giving it a unique smoky, sweet, and spicy flavor.

Can I make jerk chicken without Scotch bonnet peppers?

Yes, you can substitute with habanero peppers or milder chilies like jalapeños, but Scotch bonnets give the most authentic flavor.

How do I get the best-charred crust on jerk chicken?

Grill the chicken over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, and baste with extra marinade for the best caramelization.

Can I make jerk chicken in advance?

Yes! Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor, then cook when ready.

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