Name: Jamaican Jerk Chicken Wings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 4 h 45 min
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: Chicken wings; Scallions (green onions); Garlic; Fresh thyme; Scotch bonnet peppers (or habanero as a substitute); Ground allspice; Ground nutmeg; Ground cinnamon; Brown sugar; Soy sauce; Lime juice; Olive oil; Salt; Black pepper

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These wings are fiery, flavorful, and irresistibly juicy. Whether you’re serving them at a party, for game day, or simply craving a taste of the islands, they offer a perfect combination of heat, sweetness, and tang. The marinade is easy to make and infuses the chicken with incredible depth of flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken wings
Scallions (green onions)
Garlic
Fresh thyme
Scotch bonnet peppers (or habanero as a substitute)
Ground allspice
Ground nutmeg
Ground cinnamon
Brown sugar
Soy sauce
Lime juice
Olive oil
Salt and pepper

Directions

Prepare the Marinade:
In a blender or food processor, combine scallions, garlic, thyme, scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, nutmeg, cinnamon, brown sugar, soy sauce, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend into a smooth paste.
Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken wings in a large bowl or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them. Mix to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Cook the Wings:
- Grill Method: Preheat grill to medium heat. Grill wings for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until nicely charred and cooked through.
- Oven Method: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place wings on a lined baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Optional Finish:
Broil the wings for 2-3 minutes at the end for an extra crispy exterior.
Serve:
Serve hot with lime wedges or your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 to 6 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: At least 4 hours
Cooking Time: 25 to 40 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 4 hours and 45 minutes

Variations

Milder Heat: Use fewer scotch bonnet peppers or replace with jalapeños for less intensity.
Sweet Jerk: Add a touch of honey or pineapple juice to the marinade for a sweet-and-spicy profile.
Boneless Option: Use boneless chicken thighs or tenders for easy eating.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze marinated raw wings for up to 3 months or cooked wings for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

What makes jerk chicken “jerk”?

It’s the seasoning blend—typically a mix of spices, herbs, and scotch bonnet peppers—that gives jerk its signature flavor.

Can I use a jerk seasoning rub instead?

Yes, store-bought jerk seasoning can be used, though homemade marinade offers fresher flavor.

How spicy is this recipe?

It’s quite spicy, especially with scotch bonnet peppers, but the heat can be adjusted to your preference.

What’s a good substitute for scotch bonnet peppers?

Habanero peppers are the closest in heat and flavor. Jalapeños can be used for less heat.

Can I use drumsticks or thighs instead?

Yes, any cut of chicken works well with jerk marinade.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for deep flavor.

Do I need to remove the skin from the wings?

No, keeping the skin on helps crisp up the wings and hold in flavor.

Can I bake instead of grill?

Yes, baking is a great alternative and still produces juicy, flavorful wings.

What can I serve with jerk wings?

Rice and peas, fried plantains, or coleslaw make great side dishes.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, marinate the wings a day in advance and cook them fresh for best flavor.

Conclusion

Jamaican jerk chicken wings are a bold and flavorful dish that delivers a delicious kick of Caribbean heat. Whether grilled or baked, these wings are a surefire crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone reaching for more. Try them once, and they’re sure to become a regular favorite.