Jamaican Chicken Thighs

Transport your taste buds to the Caribbean with these irresistible Jamaican Chicken Thighs, a savory and spicy delight that’s perfect for dinner. This recipe features tender, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs marinated in a vibrant blend of scallions, fresh thyme, garlic, ginger, and the fiery kick of habanero or Scotch bonnet peppers—balanced by warm spices like allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sweetened with brown sugar and brightened with fresh lime juice, the marinade infuses deep, complex flavors into the chicken as it rests. The thighs are then seared to golden perfection and roasted until juicy and fall-off-the-bone tender. Serve them with classic sides like coconut rice and peas or fried plantains for a true taste of Jamaica. With bold flavors and simple preparation, this recipe will make a stunning addition to your weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Nutriscore Rating: 62/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:50 mins

Total Time:70 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 6 pieces Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 6 stalks Scallions (green onions)
• 2 teaspoons Fresh thyme leaves
• 4 cloves Garlic cloves
• 1 tablespoon Fresh ginger
• 1 whole (seeded and minced, optional for less heat) Habanero or Scotch bonnet pepper
• 2 teaspoons Ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon Ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons Brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 teaspoon Black pepper

Directions

Step 1

In a blender or food processor, combine scallions, thyme, garlic, ginger, habanero pepper, ground allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, soy sauce, lime juice, vegetable oil, salt, and black pepper. Blend into a smooth marinade.

Step 2

Place the chicken thighs into a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken and thoroughly coat each piece. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors penetrate.

Step 3

When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 4

Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly grease the skillet with vegetable oil if needed.

Step 5

Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade (shaking off any excess) and place them skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for about 3-4 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crisp.

Step 6

Flip the chicken thighs and sear the other side for another 2 minutes.

Step 7

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).

Step 8

Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 9

Serve hot with your choice of sides, such as rice and peas, fried plantains, or a crisp green salad.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1090.6 grams (1090.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2467

Total Fat 182.40g	234%
Saturated Fat 48.00g	240%
Polyunsaturated Fat 16.80g
Cholesterol 729mg	243%
Sodium 4271mg	186%
Total Carbohydrate 41.30g	15%
Dietary Fiber 6.10g	22%
Total Sugars 21.50g
Protein 167.90g	336%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 246mg	19%
Iron 11mg	63%
Potassium 2538mg	54%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 66.2%

Protein: 27.1%

Carbs: 6.7%