Ingredients

3 scallions , including green tops chopped
2 garlic cloves , minced
1 tablespoon ground allspice
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon cayenne
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1 1/4 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon grated nutmeg
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon vinegar
1/4 cup cooking oil
4 whole chicken legs
Jerk chicken is a traditional Jamaican dish that's known for its bold and spicy flavors. The dish gets its name from the jerk marinade, which is a blend of fragrant herbs and spices, such as scallions, thyme, allspice, and cayenne pepper. The marinade is rubbed onto chicken or other meats, which are then grilled or roasted to perfection. Jerk chicken is often served with rice, beans, or plantains, and it's a popular dish among both locals and tourists in Jamaica. However, this flavorful dish has become popular worldwide, and many variations of the original recipe exist today. This recipe for Jerk Chicken Family Style uses oven-roasted whole chicken legs for a juicy and flavorful result that's perfect for a family meal. The chicken is marinated for at least an hour in a spicy jerk marinade, and then roasted in the oven until crispy and golden-brown.

Instructions

1.In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped scallions, garlic, allspice, thyme, cayenne, onion powder, black pepper, salt, nutmeg, brown sugar, vinegar, and cooking oil, blending until smooth to form the jerk marinade.
2.Score the chicken legs by making a few shallow cuts on each side using a sharp knife to allow the marinade to penetrate fully.
3.Rub the chicken legs with the jerk marinade, coating them generously, and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
4.Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
5.Arrange the marinated chicken legs on a baking tray and roast them in the oven for 35 to 40 minutes, until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6.Let the chicken legs rest for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the juices to settle before serving.

PROS

Jerk chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a family meal.
The aromatic herbs and spices in the jerk marinade add depth and complexity to the chicken’s mild flavor, resulting in a dish that’s both savory and spicy.

This recipe is relatively healthy, as chicken is a lean protein and the jerk marinade is made with natural ingredients.

CONS

This dish can be quite spicy, so it may not be suitable for those who are sensitive to heat.
Additionally, the chicken must be marinated for at least an hour, so advance planning is required.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Chicken is a lean protein that’s rich in essential nutrients, such as vitamin B12, iron, zinc, and phosphorus. In addition, the herbs and spices in this recipe, such as thyme, allspice, and cayenne, have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. They may also aid in digestion, enhance heart health, and help prevent several chronic diseases, including cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.

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