Jamaican Baked Chicken Recipe in 2024

Introduction to Jamaican Baked Chicken Recipe in 2024

Jamaican cuisine is a beautiful fusion of various cultural influences, including African, Spanish, British, Indian, and Chinese. The island’s history has shaped its food culture, resulting in a diverse array of dishes that are full of flavor and character. Jamaican baked chicken is a dish that reflects this rich heritage, combining spices and herbs to create a meal that is both comforting and exciting.

Baking chicken is a healthier alternative to frying, as it allows the chicken to cook in its own juices, resulting in tender, juicy meat. The Jamaican twist on this classic dish comes from the use of traditional seasonings like allspice (known as pimento in Jamaica), thyme, scallions, garlic, and Scotch bonnet peppers. These ingredients work together to create a marinade that infuses the chicken with a deep, robust flavor.

Ingredients

To make Jamaican baked chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into pieces
• 2 tablespoons of allspice (pimento)
• 1 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves
• 3 scallions, chopped
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (optional, depending on your spice tolerance)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon of ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup of water

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepare the Marinade

The key to a flavorful Jamaican baked chicken is a well-made marinade. Start by combining the allspice, black pepper, salt, minced garlic, thyme leaves, scallions, Scotch bonnet pepper, and chopped onion in a large mixing bowl. Mix well to ensure that all the spices and herbs are evenly distributed.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in the bowl with the marinade, ensuring that each piece is thoroughly coated. For best results, cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

3. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, take the marinated chicken out of the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature.

4. Prepare the Baking Dish

Drizzle the vegetable oil over the bottom of a baking dish to prevent the chicken from sticking. Arrange the chicken pieces in the dish, skin-side up. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken.

5. Bake the Chicken

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).

6. Prepare the Sauce

While the chicken is baking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, ground ginger, paprika, cinnamon, and water. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the sauce has thickened slightly.

7. Baste the Chicken

About halfway through the baking process, remove the chicken from the oven and baste it with the prepared sauce. Return the chicken to the oven and continue baking until done.

8. Serve and Enjoy

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the Jamaican baked chicken with rice and peas, fried plantains, or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Nutritional Information

Here is the nutritional breakdown for one serving (based on an average serving size of 4 ounces of chicken):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	210
Total Fat	10g
Saturated Fat	2g
Cholesterol	70mg
Sodium	520mg
Total Carbohydrates	7g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	5g
Protein	24g
Vitamin A	8% DV
Vitamin C	15% DV
Calcium	4% DV
Iron	8% DV

Tips for the Perfect Jamaican Baked Chicken

1. Marinate Overnight: If time allows, marinating the chicken overnight will give you the best flavor. The longer the chicken sits in the marinade, the more the spices and herbs can work their magic.
2. Adjust the Heat: Scotch bonnet peppers are extremely hot. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount or omit the pepper entirely. Alternatively, you can substitute with a milder pepper like jalapeño.
3. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh thyme, scallions, and garlic are key to achieving the authentic flavor of Jamaican baked chicken. While dried herbs can be used in a pinch, fresh ingredients will give you the best results.
4. Don’t Skip the Basting: Basting the chicken with the sauce halfway through baking ensures that the meat stays moist and flavorful. It also adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
5. Rest the Chicken: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and juicy.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican baked chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes, making it a versatile main course. Here are a few serving suggestions to complete your meal:

• Rice and Peas: This classic Jamaican side dish made with rice, kidney beans, coconut milk, and spices is the perfect complement to the bold flavors of the chicken.
• Fried Plantains: Sweet and savory, fried plantains add a delicious contrast to the spicy chicken.
• Cabbage and Carrots: A simple sauté of cabbage and carrots with a touch of garlic and thyme makes for a light and refreshing side.
• Breadfruit: This starchy fruit is often baked, fried, or roasted and serves as a great side to the chicken.
• Jamaican Festival: These sweet, fried dumplings are a popular side dish in Jamaica and provide a tasty contrast to the spicy chicken.

Health Benefits of Jamaican Baked Chicken Recipe in 2024

Jamaican baked chicken isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients that can benefit your health. Here’s a look at some of the health benefits of this flavorful dish:

• Rich in Protein: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Protein also helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
• Low in Saturated Fat: Baking the chicken instead of frying it reduces the amount of saturated fat, making it a healthier option for those watching their fat intake.
• High in Vitamins and Minerals: The spices and herbs used in this recipe, such as thyme and allspice, are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health.
• Supports Immune Health: Garlic and Scotch bonnet peppers are known for their immune-boosting properties. Garlic contains allicin, a compound that has been shown to have antibacterial and antiviral effects, while Scotch bonnet peppers are high in vitamin C.
• Heart-Healthy: The use of lime juice in the marinade adds a dose of vitamin C, which is important for heart health. Additionally, the reduction in sodium compared to fried chicken helps to maintain healthy blood pressure levels.

FAQs

Conclusion

Jamaican baked chicken is a flavorful and healthy dish that brings the vibrant tastes of the Caribbean to your table. With its blend of aromatic spices, tender meat, and a touch of heat, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is versatile, easy to prepare, and sure to impress.

Not only does this dish offer a delicious meal, but it also provides a variety of nutrients that support overall health. By following the tips and suggestions provided, you can create a Jamaican baked chicken that is perfectly seasoned, moist, and full of flavor. So why not give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Jamaica right in your own home?