What To Know
- Serve the jerk chicken with a refreshing side dish, such as a cucumber salad or mango salsa.
- Place the marinated chicken in a roasting pan and bake for 1 hour, or until cooked through.
- Place the marinated chicken in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until tender.
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Jamaica with our step-by-step guide on how to make stove top jerk chicken. This tantalizing dish, bursting with aromatic spices and smoky goodness, will transport your taste buds to the heart of the Caribbean.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds)
- 1 cup jerk seasoning
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large bowl, combine the jerk seasoning, brown sugar, soy sauce, lime juice, olive oil, allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well to form a thick paste.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken in the marinade and coat it thoroughly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor absorption.
3. Heat the Skillet:
- Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
4. Sear the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess. Place the chicken in the hot skillet and sear for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Reduce Heat and Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low and add 1 cup of water or chicken broth to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
6. Glaze the Chicken:
- Remove the lid and increase the heat to medium. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and glazed the chicken.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer the jerk chicken to a serving platter and garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions. Serve with your favorite sides, such as rice and peas, plantains, or coleslaw.
Tips for Perfect Jerk Chicken:
- Use a high-quality jerk seasoning for authentic flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- If you don’t have a Dutch oven, use a large skillet with a lid.
- Add a bit of honey or maple syrup to the glaze for extra sweetness.
- Serve the jerk chicken with a refreshing side dish, such as a cucumber salad or mango salsa.
Variations:
- Grilled Jerk Chicken: Marinate the chicken as directed and grill over medium heat for 15-20 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Baked Jerk Chicken: Preheat oven to 375°F. Place the marinated chicken in a roasting pan and bake for 1 hour, or until cooked through.
- Slow Cooker Jerk Chicken: Place the marinated chicken in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until tender.
What You Need to Learn
Q: What is the best cut of chicken to use for jerk chicken?
A: A whole chicken provides the most flavor, but you can also use chicken thighs or breasts.
Q: How long can I marinate the chicken?
A: Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Q: Can I make my own jerk seasoning?
A: Yes, you can find recipes online or in Jamaican cookbooks.
Q: What sides go well with jerk chicken?
A: Rice and peas, plantains, coleslaw, and cucumber salad are popular accompaniments.
Q: Can I use a different type of oil?
A: You can use vegetable oil or coconut oil instead of olive oil.
