Jerk Chicken Marinade

A flavorful and versatile marinade that brings bold Jamaican flavors to your meal, perfect for chicken and other proteins.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Caribbean, Jamaican

Calories: 380

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Marinade

½ medium onion Adds sweetness and depth.
¼ cup lime juice Fresh is best for brightness.
2 tablespoons cooking oil Helps in even cooking and moisture retention.
2 tablespoons soy sauce Choose gluten-free if necessary.
2 tablespoons jerk seasoning Authentic flavor; adjust to your spice preference.
4 cloves garlic Essential for aromatic richness.
1 piece jalapeño pepper (optional) For added heat, can be omitted.

For the Chicken

2 lb chicken thighs or breast The star of this dish; choice of meat affects cooking time.

Method

Preparation

Place the onion, lime juice, cooking oil, soy sauce, jerk seasoning, garlic, and jalapeño if desired into your blender. Blend on high speed until the marinade is mostly smooth, about 30 seconds.
Transfer the chicken to a shallow bowl or baking dish. Pour the jerk chicken marinade over the top and mix it well, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours in your fridge for best results.

Cooking

Preheat the grill or oven to medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken thighs or breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Notes

For deeper flavor, aim for marinating at least 1 hour to 24 hours. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to maintain juiciness. Try experimenting with different cuts of chicken or even other meats like pork or tofu for variety.