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Delicious jerk chicken drumsticks garnished and served with side dishes

Jamaican Jerk Chicken Drumsticks

Juicy and tender chicken drumsticks marinated in a vibrant, spicy jerk seasoning that brings the flavors of the Caribbean to your table.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 drumsticks
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Caribbean, Jamaican
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the marinade
  • 2.5 lb chicken drumsticks Juicy and tender, these drumsticks serve as the star of the dish.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Adds richness and helps the marinade adhere.
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce Provides umami depth.
  • 1 each lime (or 1/2 lemon), juice only About 2 tbsp, brightens the marinade.
  • 1 each onion, coarsely chopped Aromatic and sweet.
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, chopped Or 1 tsp dried ginger powder.
  • 1 each scotch bonnet pepper or substitute with other chili For a fiery flavor that defines jerk cuisine.
  • 6 cloves garlic, roughly chopped Adds aromatic essence.
  • 2 tsp salt Essential for seasoning.
  • 2 tsp black pepper Provides warmth.
  • 3 tbsp brown sugar Contributes a sweet note.
  • 0.5 tbsp cinnamon powder Adds warmth and an exotic touch.
  • 0.5 tbsp allspice powder A key component of jerk seasoning.
  • 0.5 tsp nutmeg powder Preferably freshly grated.
  • 0.5 tsp dried thyme Or 1 sprig of fresh thyme.
  • Fresh cilantro/coriander leaves (optional, for garnish) Brightens the presentation.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with a paper towel and place them in a large ziplock bag for marinating.
  2. In a food processor, combine the marinade ingredients: olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, onion, ginger, scotch bonnet pepper, garlic, salt, black pepper, brown sugar, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, and thyme. Blend until smooth and aromatic.
  3. Pour the marinade into the ziplock bag with the chicken, seal the bag, and massage it gently to ensure the marinade coats each piece. Marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor.
Cooking
  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F fan forced) and line a baking tray with foil.
  2. Place a wire rack on the baking tray to elevate the chicken for even cooking.
  3. Remove the chicken from the marinade, saving the marinade for later use. Arrange the chicken on the wire rack and brush with half the reserved marinade. Bake for 25 minutes.
  4. Flip the drumsticks over, baste with the remaining marinade, and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes until browned.
  5. Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving, garnished with fresh coriander if desired.
Grilling Option
  1. Preheat the grill to medium heat and brush it with oil.
  2. Place the chicken on the grill, brush the top with half the marinade, and cook for about 10 minutes before flipping.
  3. Brush with the remaining marinade and cook for an additional 5 to 8 minutes, ensuring even cooking.
  4. Let the chicken rest before serving.

Notes

For a milder flavor, reduce the scotch bonnet pepper or substitute with a less spicy chili. Marinating overnight will enhance flavor and tenderness. Consider pairing with coconut rice, kidney beans, grilled vegetables, fresh salads, or plantains.