Jamaican Jerk BBQ Chicken: A Flavorful Fusion of Spices and Heat

Jamaican Jerk BBQ Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that combines the smoky, spicy flavors of traditional Jamaican jerk seasoning with the rich, tangy taste of barbecue sauce. This fusion results in a vibrant and unforgettable meal that's perfect for any occasion. The dish involves marinating chicken in a mix of Scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, thyme, and other seasonings, then grilling it to perfection.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 teaspoons ground allspice
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 Scotch bonnet peppers, seeds removed (or 1 teaspoon of hot pepper sauce)
• 4 cloves garlic
• 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: Combine the allspice, thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the Scotch bonnet peppers, garlic, and ginger to a food processor and pulse until finely chopped.
3. Mix the chopped ingredients into the bowl with the dry spices. Add in the soy sauce, olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, and white vinegar. Stir well to combine.
4. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a deep dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
5. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Grill the chicken for 6–7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Add the BBQ Touch: In the last few minutes of grilling, brush the chicken generously with your favorite barbecue sauce, allowing it to caramelize slightly on the grill. Turn the chicken occasionally to avoid burning.
7. Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve hot, alongside your favorite side dishes like rice and peas or grilled vegetables.

Enjoy the vibrant and spicy flavors of your Jamaican Jerk BBQ Chicken!