| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 610 | 34g | 8g | 19g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 10g | 2g | 60g | 1.8g |
Here’s to one recipe that I keep coming back to time and again – the savory and zesty Jamaican Jerk Chicken with Habaneros. This dish is a delightful fusion of health consciousness and comfort food, which makes my West Coast heart feel like it’s dining in the sunshine all over again. Balanced with the bold, lingering flavors that only true Jerk-style cuisine can offer, it’s a journey your taste buds will love – all from the comfort of your home.
The Nutritional Perks
Of course, as a California girl at heart, I adore signature dishes that don’t skimp on flavor or health benefits. And trust me – this Jamaican Jerk Chicken with Habaneros has plenty of both. The habaneros, a major player in this dish, are not only famous for their heat but also for their high Vitamin C content. They provide an immunity boost and have been linked to weight loss by kick-starting your metabolism! Not to mention, the chicken in this recipe is a lean source of protein perfect for weight management and muscle building. Moreover, the herbs and spices like ginger, allspice, and cloves are known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, enhancing the nutritional value of this dish!
A Versatile Companion
What I love about this meal is how beautifully it pairs with various dishes. It’s similar to any Caribbean-style chicken recipe but its unique blend of spices sets it apart. This makes it an ideal complement to other vibrant, nutritious sides such as a fresh Caribbean rainbow slaw or cooling fried plantains. Likewise, it wouldn’t be out of place next to classic comfort dishes. Think mashed sweet potatoes or a hearty rice and beans combination.
It’s also fantastic for gatherings. When I first brought my adopted children home, we had a get together with friends and family to celebrate. Needless to say, the Jamaican Jerk Chicken with Habaneros was a hit. With its blend of flavors that transport you straight to the sunshine and the beach, I’ve found it’s a recipe that puts everyone in a relaxed, vacation-worthy mood, no matter where we are.
What You’ll Need
- 3 pounds of chicken pieces (breasts, thighs, drumsticks)
- 5 medium-sized habanero peppers (deseeded and minced)
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup of soy sauce
- 1/4 cup of lime juice
- 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger root (grated)
- 1 tablespoon of ground allspice
- 1 tablespoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- Fresh fruits for garnish (optional)
Method
Step One
First, rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat dry. Set aside.
Step Two
In a food processor or blender, combine the minced habanero peppers, chopped onion, minced garlic, brown sugar, vegetable oil, soy sauce, lime juice, grated ginger root, ground allspice, dried thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, black pepper, and salt.
Step Three
Process the ingredients together until they form a smooth marinade.
Step Four
Place the chicken pieces in a large, sealable bag, and pour the jerk marinade over them. Make sure all pieces are well coated, then seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for a stronger flavor.
Step Five
When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off the excess. Arrange the chicken on the grill rack, leaving space between each piece.
Step Six
Grill the chicken, turning occasionally and basting with the leftover marinade, until the pieces are cooked through. This should take about 30 to 45 minutes. Check that the chicken is done by cutting into a thick piece – the juices should run clear.
Step Seven
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with fresh fruits. Enjoy your Jamaican Jerk Chicken with Habaneros!
