Name: Jamaican Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 24 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: 1 large red onion; 3 garlic cloves; 1 habanero pepper; 1 tbsp fresh ginger root; ¼ cup olive oil; ¼ cup brown sugar; 3 tbsp red wine vinegar; 3 tbsp orange juice concentrate; 1 tsp soy sauce; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; ½ tsp ground nutmeg; ¼ tsp ground cloves; ½ cup cilantro; ½ tsp salt and pepper; 6 chicken breast

This recipe introduces a classic Caribbean flavor to your kitchen. Jamaican-style chicken is a delicious dish that combines the sweet and savory flavors of traditional Jamaican cuisine, featuring the fruity heat of the habanero pepper and a variety of spices. The result is a mouth-watering, aromatic chicken dish that is sure to impress.

Photos of Jamaican Chicken Recipe

Some ingredients may not be readily available in your pantry. The key ingredient, habanero pepper is a type of hot chili pepper that brings the heat to Jamaican dishes. It's hotter than jalapenos, but has a sweet, fruity flavor. Ginger root is another ingredient that might not be readily available, it's used for its spicy, aromatic flavor. Lastly, orange juice concentrate is a condensed form of orange juice that adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish.

Ingredients for Jamaican-Style Chicken

Red onion: Provides a slightly sweet and tangy flavor.

Garlic cloves: Gives a robust flavor dimension.

Habanero pepper: Adds heat and a fruity flavor.

Fresh ginger root: Introduces a warm, spicy aroma.

Olive oil: Used for sautéing and adds a smooth texture.

Brown sugar: Enhances the sweetness in the dish.

Red wine vinegar: Imparts a tangy flavor.

Orange juice concentrate: Adds a tart, sweet taste.

Soy sauce: Offers a savory, umami flavor.

Ground cinnamon: Delivers a sweet-spicy punch.

Ground nutmeg: Provides a warm, nutty flavor.

Ground cloves: Gives a strong, pungent flavor.

Cilantro: Contributes a fresh, herby taste.

Salt and pepper: Enhances overall flavor.

Chicken breast: Absorbs the flavors of the marinade and remains juicy after grilling.

One reader, Anderea Witt says:

This Jamaican style chicken recipe is a game-changer! The blend of spices and flavors creates an explosion of taste. The marinade makes the chicken incredibly tender and juicy. It's a hit with my family every time I make it. A must-try for anyone who loves bold, delicious dishes!

Anderea Witt

Techniques Required for Jamaican Style Chicken Recipe

How to marinate the chicken: Combine the minced onion, garlic, habanero pepper, ginger, olive oil, brown sugar, vinegar, orange juice concentrate, soy sauce, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a container with the chicken. Cover and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to infuse into the chicken.

How to grill the chicken: Preheat the grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grate. Grill the marinated chicken for approximately 10 minutes on each side, or until it is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear.

How to serve: Serve the Jamaican-style grilled chicken warm and enjoy the delicious flavors.

How To Make Jamaican Chicken

Cook up a batch of these well-seasoned Jamaican chicken for dinner tonight! It has a nice kick from the habanero pepper paired tastefully with spices.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Marinate Time: 23 hours

Total: 1 day

Serves:

Ingredients

1large red onion
3garlic cloves
1habanero pepperseeded
1tbspfresh ginger root
¼cupolive oil
¼cupbrown sugar
3tbspred wine vinegar
3tbsporange juice concentrate
1tspsoy sauce
2tspground cinnamon
½tspground nutmeg
¼tspground cloves
½cupcilantrochopped
½tspsalt and pepperto taste
6chicken breastboneless

Instructions

In a food processor, combine the onion, garlic, habanero pepper, and ginger.
Pulse until minced.
Blend in the olive oil, brown sugar, vinegar, orange juice concentrate, soy sauce, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
In a container, combine the marinade with the chicken.
Cover, then refrigerate overnight.
Preheat the grill to medium heat, then lightly oil the grate.
Grill the chicken for 10 minutes per side, or until no longer pink and juices run clear.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 428.34kcal
Fat: 25.29g
Saturated Fat: 5.96g
Trans Fat: 0.18g
Monounsaturated Fat: 13.24g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.39g
Carbohydrates: 11.75g
Fiber: 1.46g
Sugar: 8.11g
Protein: 37.07g
Cholesterol: 111.36mg
Sodium: 357.46mg
Calcium: 48.06mg
Potassium: 509.22mg
Iron: 1.73mg
Vitamin A: 50.73µg
Vitamin C: 22.26mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Jamaican Style Chicken Recipe

When marinating the chicken, ensure to turn it occasionally in the marinade to ensure all parts of the chicken are well coated. This will help the flavors to penetrate more evenly, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Also, for a more intense flavor, you can make small cuts in the chicken before marinating. This allows the marinade to seep into the meat, enhancing the taste.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Jamaican Chicken

Prep ahead: Prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-minced ingredients: Save time by using pre-minced garlic and ginger from the store instead of mincing them yourself.

Grill in batches: If you're cooking for a large group, grill the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking and save time.

Invest in a grill pan: If you don't have access to a grill, invest in a grill pan for stovetop cooking to achieve similar results.

Organize your workspace: Before you start cooking, organize your ingredients and tools to streamline the cooking process.

Multi-task: While the chicken is marinating, use that time to prepare side dishes or salads to accompany the meal.

Substitute Ingredients For Jamaican Chicken Recipe

Red onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a slightly milder flavor compared to red onions, but they will still provide a good base for the dish.
Habanero pepper - Substitute with Scotch bonnet pepper: Scotch bonnet peppers have a similar heat level and flavor profile to habanero peppers, making them a suitable substitute for this recipe.
Orange juice concentrate - Substitute with freshly squeezed orange juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice will provide a more vibrant and natural citrus flavor compared to the concentrated version.
Cilantro - Substitute with flat-leaf parsley: Flat-leaf parsley can provide a similar fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish, although it is milder than cilantro.

Presenting Jamaican Style Chicken

Elevate the dish with garnishes: Add a pop of color and freshness to the dish by garnishing with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for a visually appealing presentation.
Create a vibrant side salad: Accompany the Jamaican-style chicken with a refreshing side salad featuring a mix of mango, pineapple, and jicama for a burst of tropical flavors.
Incorporate artistic plating: Arrange the grilled chicken in an artful manner on the plate, drizzle the marinade reduction around the dish, and use edible flowers for an elegant touch.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Present the dish on a beautiful ceramic platter or wooden board to enhance the overall dining experience.
Offer a variety of textures: Consider serving the chicken alongside a scoop of creamy coconut rice and a side of crispy plantain chips to provide a contrast in textures.

Essential Tools for Making Jamaican Chicken

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for quickly and efficiently mincing the onion, garlic, habanero pepper, and ginger for this recipe.
Grill: A grill is essential for cooking the Jamaican-style chicken. It imparts a delicious smoky flavor and beautiful grill marks on the chicken breasts. Make sure to preheat the grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grate before grilling.

Storing and Freezing Jamaican Style Chicken

Once the chicken has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help prevent the chicken from drying out and keep it fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
If you want to store the jamaican style chicken for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To do this, place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
When you're ready to enjoy the frozen chicken, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. You can reheat the thawed chicken in the microwave, oven, or on the stovetop until it's heated through.
If you have leftover marinade, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Use it to marinate more chicken or as a flavorful sauce for other dishes.
To maintain the best quality and flavor of the jamaican style chicken, avoid freezing it multiple times. Once you've thawed the frozen chicken, try to consume it within 2-3 days and do not refreeze it.

How To Reheat Leftover Jamaican Style Chicken

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover jamaican style chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture in the chicken and prevents it from drying out.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the leftover chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the chicken, as it can quickly dry out in the microwave.
If you have a bit more time, consider reheating the chicken on the stovetop. Place the leftover chicken in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or water. Cover the skillet and heat over medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. This method helps to keep the chicken moist and can even enhance the flavors of the marinade.
For a tasty twist, shred the leftover jamaican style chicken and use it as a filling for tacos, burritos, or sandwiches. The bold flavors of the marinade will complement a variety of dishes and can give leftovers a new lease on life.
If you have access to a grill, consider reheating the chicken on the grill. Preheat the grill to medium heat and place the leftover chicken on the grates. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the chicken is heated through and has a nice char. This method can help to reinvigorate the flavors of the marinade and give the chicken a delicious smoky taste.

Interesting Fact About Jamaican Style Chicken

The Jamaican style chicken recipe is a fusion of African, European, and Indian influences, reflecting the diverse cultural heritage of Jamaica. This dish often incorporates a blend of aromatic spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, which are commonly used in Jamaican cuisine. The use of habanero pepper in the marinade adds a spicy kick, characteristic of Jamaican cooking. This recipe showcases the island's vibrant flavors and demonstrates the influence of various culinary traditions on Jamaican cuisine.

Is Making Jamaican Style Chicken at Home Cost-Effective?

This Jamaican-style chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as chicken breast, onion, garlic, and ginger root, are commonly found and reasonably priced. The marinade uses simple yet flavorful components like brown sugar, red wine vinegar, and spices, which are cost-efficient. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20. Overall, this recipe earns a solid 8/10 for its affordability and delicious outcome.

Is Jamaican Style Chicken Healthy or Unhealthy?

This Jamaican-style chicken recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. Let's break it down:

Healthy ingredients:

Chicken breast is a lean protein source
Onion, garlic, ginger, and cilantro provide beneficial nutrients and flavors
Orange juice concentrate offers some vitamin C

Unhealthy aspects:

The recipe includes a significant amount of added sugar (brown sugar)
Olive oil, while a healthier fat, is used in a considerable quantity
Soy sauce contains high levels of sodium
The habanero pepper may be too spicy for some individuals

While the marinade adds flavor, it also contributes to the dish's overall sugar and fat content. The cooking method of grilling is generally healthy, as it doesn't require additional oil.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of brown sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Use less olive oil or opt for a cooking spray to minimize added fats
Replace the soy sauce with a low-sodium alternative or coconut aminos
Adjust the amount of habanero pepper to suit your spice tolerance or use a milder pepper like jalapeño
Serve the chicken with a side of nutrient-dense vegetables and a whole grain to create a balanced meal
Experiment with using chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result, but be mindful of the slightly higher fat content

Editor's Opinion on This Jamaican Style Chicken Recipe

This Jamaican-style chicken recipe is a tantalizing blend of flavors that will transport your taste buds to the Caribbean. The combination of spices, citrus, and heat from the habanero pepper creates a harmonious balance that elevates the chicken to new heights. Marinating the chicken overnight allows the flavors to infuse, resulting in juicy and succulent meat. The grilling process adds a delightful smokiness, enhancing the overall sensory experience. This recipe is a culinary journey that promises to delight and impress anyone who has the pleasure of savoring it.

Enhance Your Jamaican Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Jamaican Rice and Peas: Try serving the Jamaican style chicken with a side of coconut-infused rice and peas for a taste of the Caribbean.

Fried Plantains: For a sweet and savory addition to the meal, consider serving fried plantains alongside the Jamaican style chicken.

Mango Salsa: Add a refreshing and tropical twist to the dish by serving it with a side of zesty mango salsa.

Callaloo: Incorporate some traditional Jamaican flavors by serving the chicken with a side of callaloo, a delicious leafy green vegetable dish.

Similar Recipes to Jamaican Style Chicken

Spicy Beef Tacos: These tacos are packed with flavor and heat, perfect for a spicy food lover!

Mango Salsa Chicken: The sweetness of the mango combined with the savory chicken creates a delicious and refreshing dish.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This soup is the perfect comfort food, with a creamy texture and the fresh taste of basil.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for Jamaican Style Chicken

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a mouthwatering appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a delicious start to any meal.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Whip up a tropical-inspired appetizer by coating shrimp in a crispy coconut breading. Fry until golden brown and serve with a sweet and tangy dipping sauce for a delightful flavor combination.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Banana Split: Create a classic banana split with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, sliced bananas, hot fudge, caramel sauce, whipped cream, and a cherry on top. This nostalgic dessert is sure to bring a smile to your guests' faces.

Why trust this Jamaican Chicken Recipe:

This recipe is a delicious and authentic Jamaican-style chicken dish that will transport you to the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean. The marinade, featuring habanero pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg, infuses the chicken with a perfect balance of heat and warmth. The combination of red wine vinegar and orange juice concentrate adds a tangy sweetness, while the cilantro provides a fresh and aromatic touch. With a marinade that's bursting with flavor and a grilling method that ensures juicy and tender chicken, this recipe promises an unforgettable culinary experience.

Share your thoughts on this Jamaican Chicken Recipe in the World Cuisines forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to share!

FAQ:

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken for this recipe. It will add extra flavor to the dish, but you may need to adjust the grilling time to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

Can I substitute the habanero pepper with a milder pepper?

Absolutely! If you prefer a milder heat, you can substitute the habanero pepper with a jalapeño or serrano pepper. Just adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.

Can I marinate the chicken for less than overnight?

While marinating the chicken overnight allows the flavors to fully develop, if you're short on time, you can marinate the chicken for at least 2-3 hours. However, the longer the marination, the more flavorful the chicken will be.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?

Yes, you can bake the marinated chicken in the oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work wonderfully with this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may require a few extra minutes on the grill.