Jamaican-style grilled chicken with bold, spicy flavors.
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Nutrition per Serving
Ingredients
Estimated total cost: €17.00 · €2.83/serving
- 1 bunch fresh chives, snipped into 1-inch segments (perfect for garnishing)Est. price €0.80–€1.50
- 48 fiery Scotch bonnet chiles or habanero chilesEst. price €3.00–€5.50
- 5 cloves of garlic, smashed (enhances the flavor when sautéed)Est. price €0.20–€0.50
- 3/4 cup rich malt vinegarEst. price €0.60–€1.20
- 3/4 cup savory soy sauceEst. price €1.20–€2.50
- 2 tablespoons Jamaican rumEst. price €1.50–€3.00
- 2 tablespoons of premium Diamond Crystal salt or 1 tablespoon of Morton kosher salt (choose according to preference)Est. price €0.40–€0.80
- 2 1/2 teaspoons aromatic ground allspiceEst. price €0.70–€1.40
- 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground nutmegEst. price €1.80–€3.50
- 3/4 teaspoon ground clovesEst. price €0.25–€0.60
Steps
- 1In a blender, combine chives, chili peppers, garlic, vinegar, soy sauce, rum, salt, allspice, nutmeg, and cloves. Blend until the mixture is smooth. Take a large bowl and add the chicken pieces to it. Pour the jerk marinade over the chicken. Rotate the thighs and drumsticks in the marinade multiple times to ensure they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 1 day, remembering to flip the chicken pieces halfway through marinating time.
- 2Take out the chicken from the marinade, ensuring to remove any extra marinade, and allow it to reach room temperature for approximately 30 minutes. Get rid of the marinade.
- 3Prepare the grill by setting it up for 2-zone heat. If you're using a charcoal grill, pile two-thirds of the coals on one side and scatter the rest on the other side. For a gas grill, turn one burner to high heat and adjust the remaining burners to medium-low heat. Lightly oil the grate before placing the chicken drumsticks and thighs, skin side down, over the hottest part of the grill. Grill them until they develop a light char, which should take about 5–10 minutes. Next, move the chicken pieces to the cooler section of the grill and continue grilling. Turn them several times during this process. The chicken is ready when an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 165°F. This should take an additional 20–25 minutes of grilling time.
Cultural note
This dish originates from Jamaica, known for its bold and flavorful cuisine. The marinade featuring Jamaican rum, allspice, and nutmeg reflects the island's rich culinary heritage and diverse influences.
Seasonal note
This dish is best made during the summer months when fresh chives, Scotch bonnet chiles, and garlic are in season. Grilling the chicken outdoors is also ideal during this time.
Health note
Spicy Jamaican Grilled Chicken Drums are high in protein, providing 28g per serving, making it a satisfying meal. However, it is important to note the high sodium content at 1800mg per serving, which may be a concern for those watching their salt intake.
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