Jamaican spiced chicken

Jamaican Spiced Chicken features a vibrant marinade of spices, soy sauce, and jalapeno, delivering a punchy flavour. This easy recipe involves marinating chicken breasts for optimal taste before grilling or pan-searing them until cooked through.

12 Jan 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1/4 tsp red pepper (spice)
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp spice mix
1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp soy sauce
1 jalapeno pepper
2 tsp vinegar
1 tbsp sugar
1/4 cup onion
1 short spray cooking spray oil
6 chicken breasts

Jamaican Spiced Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings the vibrant and tropical flavors of Jamaica to your table. This recipe combines the perfect blend of spices and seasonings, resulting in a deliciously spiced chicken that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Instructions:

1. Prep Work:
- Finely chop the jalapeno pepper and the onion. Set them aside.

2. Marinade:
- In a large bowl, combine the red pepper, black pepper, dried thyme, spice mix, and salt. Mix well.
- Add the soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, chopped jalapeno pepper, and chopped onion to the bowl. Stir until everything is well combined.

3. Prepare the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring that each piece is well-coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to infuse. For best results, marinate for up to 8 hours.

4. Preheat the Grill or Skillet:
- If you're using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat.
- If you're using a skillet, preheat it over medium-high heat and lightly coat it with a short spray of cooking spray oil.

5. Cook the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off.
- Grill or cook the chicken breasts in the skillet for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Adjust the cooking time as needed depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.

6. Serve:
- Once cooked, transfer the chicken breasts to a serving platter. Let them rest for a few minutes.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs or extra chopped jalapeno for added flavor and presentation.

Jamaican Spiced Chicken is a wonderful dish that brings a taste of the Caribbean to your home. With its aromatic spices and flavorful seasonings, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides and relish the vibrant flavors that it has to offer.

Jamaican spiced chicken FAQ:

What is the recommended cooking time for Jamaican spiced chicken?

Cook the chicken breasts for about 6-8 minutes per side on medium-high heat. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

How should I store leftover Jamaican spiced chicken?

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Reheat before serving.

Can I substitute the jalapeno in the marinade?

Yes, you can substitute jalapeno with other peppers like green bell pepper for less heat or habanero for more spice. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference.

What size pan is best for cooking Jamaican spiced chicken?

A skillet that can comfortably hold the chicken breasts without overcrowding is best. A large 12-inch skillet is typically suitable for 6 chicken breasts.

What should I do if my chicken doesn’t reach 165°F after cooking?

If the chicken hasn’t reached 165°F, continue cooking it for a few more minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the breast to ensure it's fully cooked.

Cooking Tips:

- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts for at least 30 minutes to a few hours if you have the time.

- If you prefer a milder heat, you can remove the seeds from the jalapeno pepper before chopping it.

- Using fresh thyme instead of dried can enhance the aroma and flavor of the dish.

- Serve the spiced chicken with rice, beans, or a fresh salad to complete the meal.

- For an added smoky flavor, consider grilling the chicken instead of cooking it on the stovetop.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 230kcal
Protein 40g
Carbohydrates 4.70g
Fiber 0.45g
Sugar 3.90g
Fat 4.77g

Jamaican spiced chicken