Backyard Jerk Chicken

(87)
Prep Time:
40 mins
Total Time:
1 hr
Servings:
4

Invite the neighbors over for a backyard barbecue featuring jerk chicken that gets its spicy flavor from an easy marinade that includes allspice, garlic, and spicy peppers. It's also delicious with skirt steak or pork chops.

Ingredients

  • 1 Scotch bonnet or habanero chile, stemmed

  • 1 bunch scallions, cut into pieces

  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed and peeled

  • 1 ½ teaspoons dried thyme

  • 2 tablespoons packed dark-brown sugar

  • 1 tablespoon ground allspice

  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce

  • 2 tablespoons lime juice

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, plus more for grill

  • 3 1/2 to 4 pounds chicken pieces

  • Salt and pepper

Directions

  1. In a food processor, puree chile, scallions, garlic, thyme, brown sugar, allspice, soy sauce, lime juice, and oil. In a large zip-top bag, toss chicken with paste. Refrigerate at least 1 hour (or up to 1 day).

  2. Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-low. Clean and lightly oil hot grill. Season chicken with salt and pepper; grill, covered, turning often to prevent charring, until cooked through, 45 to 50 minutes.

    how_to_grill_jerk_chicken_1.jpg

Cook's Notes

This recipe also works with chicken roasted at 450 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes.

Originally appeared: Everyday Food, July/August 2012

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