Ingredients
– 10 chicken legs
– 1/3 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
– 2 teaspoons allspice
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 2 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
1-Diving into this recipe is simpler than you might think, and we’ll walk you through it step by step to ensure success. Start by preheating your oven to 425Β°F and positioning the rack in the lower middle spot for even cooking. This method brings out the rich, smoky flavors that make Jamaican Jerk Chicken so irresistible.
2-First, combine all the ingredients except the chicken in a bowl to create a flavorful spice rub or paste. Make sure to mix everything thoroughly for that perfect balance of spices. Next, dry the 10 chicken legs with paper towels and poke holes all over them using a fork to help the seasoning penetrate deeply.
3-Then, rub the spice mixture evenly onto and under the skin of the chicken legs for maximum flavor infusion. Arrange the chicken on a large rimmed baking sheet lined with foil, spacing the pieces apart to promote even browning. Bake smaller legs for about 40 minutes and larger ones for about 50 minutes, or until they’re nicely browned and ready.
4-Once done, serve the chicken immediately with the pan drippings for added moisture and taste. For external inspiration on authentic techniques, check out authentic Caribbean jerk chicken recipes. This approach works well for adaptations, like grilling for a smokier result if you prefer.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
πΏ Prepare the dry spice mix several days ahead and store it in an airtight container for convenience.
π± Use fresh thyme for the best herb flavor and aroma.
π Rub seasoning under the skin for deeper flavor infusion and more tender meat.
β° Marinate the chicken several hours or overnight for enhanced taste.
βοΈ Marinated chicken can be frozen and thawed two days prior to cooking.
π Serve with traditional sides like rice and beans, coconut rice, or plantains to complete the meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-50 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking (Oven) or Grilling
- Cuisine: Jamaican, Caribbean
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken leg
- Calories: 232 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 654 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.02 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 117 mg
