Smoked Jerk Chicken Recipe

Hey there, foodies and grill enthusiasts! Let’s dive into a flavor-packed adventure that’s gonna make your taste buds dance the tango! Today, I’m spilling the beans on how to whip up some finger-lickin’ smoked jerk chicken recipe using a pellet grill. Trust me, this recipe is the bomb-dot-com, and you won’t even believe how simple it is to pull off. So, put on your aprons and let’s get this smokin’ party started!

How to make smoked jerk chicken

Alright, amigos, here’s the lowdown on this lip-smackin’ journey. You’re gonna need some chicken thighs that are ready to get cozy with a flavor explosion. Start by whipping up a killer jerk marinade. Now, this ain’t your average marinade – it’s got all the island vibes with scallions, thyme, allspice, and a hit of fiery scotch bonnet pepper (handle with care, folks!). Toss those chicken thighs into the mix and let ’em marinate, chillaxing and soaking in all that Jamaican goodness.

Now, onto the pellet grill! Fire it up to around 275°F and throw in some wood pellets that are gonna give your chicken that smoky kiss it deserves. Pop those marinated beauties onto the grill grates, and let the magic happen. Oh, did I mention you should keep a close eye on ’em? Turning them every now and then ensures that they’re getting that perfect char and flavor on all sides.

What type of wood pellets to use

Hold on to your hats, folks – the type of wood pellets you choose can totally make or break your smoked jerk chicken game. I’m talkin’ about using fruitwood pellets like apple or cherry. These babes bring a subtly sweet and fruity aroma that pairs like a dream with that kickin’ jerk marinade. It’s like a tropical dance party in your mouth!

How to know when they are cooked

Now, don’t let your excitement get the best of you. We’re grillin’ with a purpose here! When it comes to the big reveal of chicken perfection, you wanna whip out that trusty meat thermometer. Give those thighs a little poke, and if the internal temperature hits around 165°F, you’re golden, baby! No one wants an uninvited surprise party of undercooked chicken, am I right?

What to serve

Alright, now that you’ve conquered the main event, let’s talk about sidekicks! Pair your smoky jerk chicken with some cool cucumber and tomato salad – it’s like a refreshing oasis amidst all that spicy goodness. And let’s not forget about some classic rice and peas – a match made in culinary heaven. Oh, and a slice of fresh lime on the side? You’re welcome!

Ideas for leftovers

Hold the phone – did someone say leftovers? Don’t let that smoked jerk chicken sit all sad in the fridge. Transform it into the ultimate jerk chicken sandwich with a slather of tangy mayo and a crunch of lettuce. Or chop it up and throw it in a vibrant tropical salad – ’cause who said leftovers can’t be the life of the party?

Wowza, folks, what a journey we’ve been on! From whipping up that mind-blowing jerk marinade to nailing the perfect smoky cook on those chicken thighs, you’ve conquered the art of smoked jerk chicken. It’s not just about food – it’s about creating memories, sharing laughs, and turning your grill into the hottest hangout spot in town. So, here’s to you, my fellow grill masters, for embarking on this culinary escapade with me.

Thanks a million for joining me on this flavor-packed adventure. Remember, life’s too short for bland chicken, so go ahead and spice things up! And always keep in mind: “Good food, good mood.” Until next time, my fellow food explorers, keep smokin’ and keep rockin’ that grill!

Catch ya on the flavor side!

Print

Smoked Jerk Chicken Recipe

Elevate your BBQ experience with our incredible smoked jerk chicken recipe. Smoky, spicy, and incredibly flavorful - it'll have you coming back for more!

Course Main Course

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 2 hours

Marinating 2 hours

Servings 4

Ingredients

• 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs

For the jerk marinade:

• 4 scallions chopped
• 3-4 sprigs of fresh thyme
• 4 garlic cloves minced
• 2 Scotch bonnet peppers seeds removed (wear gloves!)
• 1 tablespoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 2 limes
• Salt to taste

For the smokin' process:

• Fruitwood pellets apple, cherry, or a blend

Instructions

The Jerk Marinade Dance

1. In a food processor or blender, toss in the scallions, thyme leaves, minced garlic, Scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, black pepper, soy sauce, olive oil, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
2. Blend until you've got a smooth, vibrant marinade that's got you doing the flavor dance!
3. Grab your chicken thighs and make a few shallow cuts on each piece. This will let the marinade seep in and work its magic.
4. Pop those chicken thighs into a zip-top plastic bag or an airtight container.
5. Pour that zesty jerk marinade all over the chicken. Give it a massage, making sure every nook and cranny gets a taste of the party.
6. Seal up the bag or container and let it chill in the fridge for at least 2-4 hours. But hey, if you're all about max flavor, let it marinate overnight!

Smokin' Hot Grill Time

1. Time to fire up that pellet grill, amigos! Set it to a smoking temperature of around 275°F.
2. While the grill gets its smoky mojo going, drain the marinated chicken from the bag or container, letting any excess marinade drip off.
3. Now, let's talk wood pellets – grab those fruitwood pellets like apple or cherry. They're gonna make your chicken dance to the island beat!
4. Throw those wood pellets into the grill's hopper, and let the magic smoke begin.
5. Place those marinated chicken thighs on the grill grates, and close the lid. Get ready to let 'em party in that smoky paradise!
6. Keep an eye on 'em, flip 'em every now and then to get that perfect char and flavor on all sides. This is where you let the grill work its magic for around 1.5 - 2 hours.
7. Bust out your trusty meat thermometer. Give those thighs a poke, and if the internal temperature hits around 165°F, you're in smoky paradise!
8. Time to unleash the flavor bomb onto your plates!

Savor the Flavor

1. Plate up that smokin' hot jerk chicken, and be prepared to witness jaws dropping.
2. Serve it up with some cool cucumber and tomato salad – a refreshing oasis amidst all that spicy goodness.
3. Don't forget the classic rice and peas – they're like the rhythm section to your jerk chicken's melody.
4. And of course, a slice of fresh lime on the side to squeeze over that smoky perfection!