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Baked Jerk Chicken Recipe

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4.1 from 83 reviews

This Baked Jerk Chicken recipe features tender, flavorful chicken thighs and drumsticks marinated in a vibrant jerk seasoning blend, then baked to perfection and finished under the broiler for a crispy skin. Perfectly spiced and juicy, this dish captures the essence of Caribbean flavors and is perfect served alongside rice and beans.

Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade

  • 3 pounds skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs and drumsticks
  • 1/4 cup jerk seasoning paste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 teaspoons browning seasoning sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken: In a large Ziploc bag, combine the chicken, jerk seasoning paste, olive oil, onion powder, garlic powder, chicken bouillon powder, salt, pepper, browning seasoning sauce, and cayenne pepper. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 6 hours to allow the flavors to deeply infuse the chicken.
  2. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to fully preheat before baking.
  3. Initial baking: Place the chicken pieces skin side down into a 9 x 13-inch casserole pan and cover tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes to gently cook the chicken and allow flavors to meld.
  4. Flip and continue baking: Remove the foil, flip the chicken pieces so the skin side is up, and bake uncovered for an additional 30 to 40 minutes. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety and doneness.
  5. Broil for crispiness: Finally, place the chicken under the broiler for 2 to 5 minutes, watching closely, until the skin crisps up beautifully and turns golden brown.
  6. Serve: Pair the crispy, juicy baked jerk chicken with classic sides like rice and beans for a complete meal. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken for at least 6 hours (or overnight) enhances the depth of flavor.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check for the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper according to your preferred level of heat.
  • Browning seasoning sauce adds rich color and savory umami—optional if unavailable.
  • Covering the chicken in the first bake keeps it moist, while uncovering and broiling crisps the skin.