At Jollof Vibes, jerk chicken isn’t just food—it’s a flavor-packed journey straight to the Caribbean. Whether you’re trying to recreate our signature dish at home or just love experimenting with bold spices, this blog gives you our go-to recipe and some insider tips to make sure it turns out fire—every single time.

📝 Jollof Vibes Jerk Chicken Recipe

🛒 Ingredients:

• 4 chicken leg quarters (or use thighs and drumsticks)

• 2 Scotch bonnet peppers (or habanero as a substitute)

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 4 garlic cloves

• 1-inch piece of ginger

• 1 tbsp fresh thyme

• 1 tsp ground allspice

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp nutmeg

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 2 tbsp vinegar (white or apple cider)

• Juice of 1 lime

• 1 tbsp cooking oil

• Salt and black pepper to taste

🔥 Instructions:

1. Make the marinade:
   Blend the peppers, onion, garlic, ginger, thyme, all spices, sugar, lime juice, soy sauce, vinegar, and oil into a thick paste.

2. Prep the chicken:
   Wash and pat dry the chicken. Score the meat for deeper flavor absorption, then coat it well with the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours—overnight is best.

3. Cook it up:

   • Grill: Cook over medium heat, flipping occasionally for about 30–40 minutes, until charred and juicy.

   • Oven: Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 45–50 minutes. Broil for 5 minutes at the end to get that perfect char.

4. Serve hot with Jollof rice, plantains, or rice & peas.

✅ 5 Pro Tips for Perfect Jerk Chicken

1. Don’t Rush the Marinade
   Time = flavor. Letting the chicken marinate for at least 4–6 hours (or overnight) allows the spices to really work their magic.

2. Go Fresh Over Dried
   Use fresh garlic, ginger, and thyme if possible. It makes a huge difference in the depth of flavor.

3. Balance the Fire
   Jerk chicken is known for its heat—but it’s not just about being spicy. Brown sugar and lime juice help mellow and balance the burn.

4. Smoke = Soul
   Traditional jerk is cooked over pimento wood, but if you’re grilling, adding a bit of smoked paprika or wood chips can give a similar effect.

5. Rest Before Serving
   Let the chicken sit for 5–10 minutes after cooking. This locks in the juices and helps the flavors settle into the meat.

🎉 Final Words from the Jollof Vibes Kitchen

Jerk chicken is bold, soulful, and full of character—just like the culture it comes from. Whether you’re cooking for the first time or a seasoned foodie, this recipe and these tips will have you grilling like a pro in no time.

Too busy to cook? No problem. Come taste the real deal at Jollof Vibes. We’re bringing the heat daily!