Oven Baked Jerk Chicken: A Flavorful Caribbean Delight
This Oven Baked Jerk Chicken is juicy, flavorful, and packed with authentic Caribbean spices. Easy to make, perfect for meal prep, and bursting with smoky heat—this dish will be your new favorite! Try it today!
Jerk chicken is a staple of Caribbean cuisine, known for its bold, smoky, and spicy flavors. This Oven Baked Jerk Chicken recipe delivers all the taste of traditional jerk chicken without needing a grill. Whether you're a spice lover or just looking to try something new, this dish is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Bold, Authentic Flavor – A perfect balance of heat, smokiness, and aromatic spices.
Easy to Make – No need for a grill! This version is baked to perfection.
Meal Prep Friendly – Marinate ahead for an easy weeknight dinner.
Pairs Well with Everything – Serve with rice, cabbage, or plantains for a full Caribbean experience.
Ingredients and Their Roles
Chicken:
4-5 Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – Chicken thighs stay juicy and absorb the marinade well.
Marinade:
4 tbsp Store-bought Jerk Seasoning (Mild or Spicy) – The heart of this dish, giving it a signature jerk flavor.
1 tbsp Onion Powder – Enhances the savory depth.
2 tbsp Garlic Powder – Essential for that rich, garlicky base.
1 tsp Black Pepper – Adds mild heat and depth.
2 tbsp Thyme Leaves – A key herb in Caribbean cooking.
2 tbsp Pimento Seeds (Allspice) – Gives the dish its characteristic warmth and spice.
2 tbsp Olive Oil, Divided – Helps distribute the seasoning and keeps the chicken moist.
1 tsp Browning Sauce – Adds color and enhances the smoky flavor.
1/2 tsp Salt – Balances all the flavors.
1/2 cup Water – Helps blend the marinade smoothly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel.
Score or poke the chicken with a knife or fork to help the marinade penetrate deeper.
Step 2: Make the Jerk Marinade
In a blender or food processor, blend together the jerk seasoning, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, pimento seeds, 1 tbsp olive oil, browning sauce, salt, and water until smooth.
Step 3: Marinate for Maximum Flavor
Coat the chicken thoroughly with the marinade, making sure it gets into the cuts.
Cover and let marinate for at least 2 hours (overnight for best results).
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with foil or place a wire rack over a tray for even cooking.
Drizzle the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over the chicken.
Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 5: Optional Finishing Touch
For extra char and smokiness, broil for 5 minutes or grill over an open flame for a few minutes.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Pair with Calypso Rice, Jamaican Cabbage, or a fresh tropical salad for an authentic meal.
Tips for the Best Oven Baked Jerk Chicken
Use Fresh Thyme – It adds a more authentic taste than dried.
Don’t Skip the Marination – The longer, the better! Overnight is ideal.
Adjust the Heat – If you like it milder, use a mild jerk seasoning and reduce the pimento.
Use a Wire Rack – Helps air circulate for crispier chicken.
What to Serve with Jerk Chicken
Looking for the perfect sides? Try these delicious pairings:
Calypso Rice – A flavorful rice with coconut and spices. (Link to recipe here)
Jamaican Cabbage – A tangy, spiced cabbage dish. (Link to recipe here)
Fried Plantains – Sweet and caramelized goodness!
Mango Salsa – Adds a refreshing, fruity contrast.
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Oven Baked Jerk Chicken
This Oven Baked Jerk Chicken is juicy, flavorful, and packed with authentic Caribbean spices. Easy to make, perfect for meal prep, and bursting with smoky heat—this dish will be your new favorite! Try it today!
Ingredients
- 4-5 Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
- Marinade:
- 4 tbsp Store-bought Jerk Seasoning (Mild or Spicy)
- 1 tbsp Onion Powder
- 2 tbsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
- 2 tbsp Thyme Leaves
- 2 tbsp Pimento Seeds (Allspice)
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil, Divided
- 1 tsp Browning Sauce
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 cup Water
Instructions
- Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel.
- Score or poke the chicken with a knife or fork to help the marinade penetrate deeper.
- In a blender or food processor, blend together the jerk seasoning, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, pimento seeds, 1 tbsp olive oil, browning sauce, salt, and water until smooth.
- Coat the chicken thoroughly with the marinade, making sure it gets into the cuts.
- Cover and let marinate for at least 2 hours (overnight for best results).
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with foil or place a wire rack over a tray for even cooking.
- Drizzle the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over the chicken.
- Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- For extra char and smokiness, broil for 5 minutes or grill over an open flame for a few minutes.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
This Oven Baked Jerk Chicken is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, spicy flavors. Whether you're new to Caribbean cuisine or a longtime fan, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Give it a try, and let me know what you think!
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