Easy Oven-Baked Jerk Chicken
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Jerk chicken is a bold, spicy Caribbean dish made with a mix of herbs and spices. Making it from scratch can be a bit much, and I’m all about meals that are full of flavor, easy to whip up, and don’t have me stuck in the kitchen for hours! That’s exactly why I created this Easy Oven-Baked Jerk Chicken recipe! It’s a quick and delicious way to elevate a store-bought version with an extraordinary homemade marinade that takes the flavor to the next level. I love to drizzle some pineapple jerk sauce on top and enjoy it with rice and peas or even on its own—true Caribbean style!
This jerk chicken is everything you want—crispy skin, juicy and tender meat, and packed with bold, authentic Caribbean spices. It’s my go-to for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or whenever I’m craving a taste of home.
What I love most? The marinade comes together in minutes with simple pantry staples, and once the chicken is in the oven, I can focus on other things (like stopping my toddler from climbing the furniture). Plus, this jerk chicken is kid-friendly—it has just the right amount of spice without being overwhelming, so my little ones enjoy it too!
Marinate overnight for deeper, richer flavor! The longer the chicken soaks inthe marinade, the better it tastes. I highly recommend letting it sit overnight for the best results.
This easy oven-baked jerk chicken is proof that you don’t need a grill to get authentic Caribbean flavor! The bold, smoky, and slightly sweet seasoning makes every bite irresistible. If you try this recipe, drop a comment on the blog and let me know how it turned out!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Jerk Chicken Recipe
Bold & Authentic Caribbean Flavor: Thanks to the perfect blend of pimento, thyme, and browning sauce.
Oven-Baked & Hassle-Free: No need for outdoor grilling—just marinate, bake, and enjoy!
Perfectly Juicy & Crispy: The oven locks in moisture while crisping up the skin to perfection.
Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy all week!
Pairs Well with Everything: Serve it with rice & peas, steamed cabbage, or fried plantains for a true Caribbean meal.
FAQ: Easy Oven-Baked Jerk Chicken
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes can still give good results.
What should I serve with jerk chicken?
Classic sides include rice and peas, fried plantains, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables. You can also enjoy it with a side of festival (Jamaican fried dough).
Can I make jerk chicken in the air fryer?
Yes! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway. It’s a quicker way to get crispy, flavorful chicken.
Can I use this jerk seasoning on other meats?
Definitely! The same seasoning works well on shrimp, fish, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for a quicker option.
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Easy Oven-Baked Jerk Chicken
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 70 minutes
Description
This Easy Oven-Baked Jerk Chicken brings the rich, smoky, and spicy flavors of the Caribbean straight to your kitchen—without the hassle of grilling! Made with a simple yet flavorful jerk marinade, this dish delivers crispy skin and juicy, tender meat with every bite.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 5 chicken leg quarters
- 1 Lemon or Lime
For the 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
- 2 tbsp Olive oil, divided
- 1 tsp Browning sauce
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 cup Water (for blending marinade)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by rinsing the chicken leg quarters with lime or vinegar water then patting them dry with paper towel. Using a knife, score the chicken (make small cuts) to help the seasoning soak in. Important: Be sure to wipe down all surfaces with a kitchen disinfectant spray afterwards.
Step 2: Make the Jerk Marinade
In a blender or food processor, blend together 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
Rub the marinade all over the chicken, making sure to get into the cuts for deep flavor. Cover and let marinate for at least 2 hours (overnight for the best flavor).
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- 1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- 2Place the chicken on a lined baking sheet with foil or a wire rack over a tray for even cooking.
- 3Drizzle a little olive oil over the chicken.
- 4Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, turning halfway through, until the skin is crispy and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F).
- 5Optional: For extra char and smokiness, broil for the last 5 minutes or grill over an open flame for a few minutes.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
Enjoy this delicious oven-baked jerk chicken on its own, drizzle with pineapple jerk sauce for extra flavor, or pair it with classic sides like rice and peas, festival, or steamed cabbage.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated-Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
Category: Traditional Afro-Caribbean RecipesQuick and Easy Weeknight Dinner
Keywords:
Easy jerk chicken, oven-baked jerk chicken, Caribbean chicken recipe, spicy chicken, weeknight dinner, meal prep, jerk marinade, baked chicken thighs, Jamaican-inspired recipe, family-friendly dinner, bold flavors, quick and easy, no-fuss meal.
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