This simple Jamaican jerk chicken marinade uses pantry staple ingredients to develop its warm, vibrant, and distinctive flavor. The quick and easy marinade whips up in just minutes but I've also included some super fresh additions for anyone desiring a more 'authentic' jerk seasoning!
In a small bowl combine the 2 tablespoon olive oil, 2 tablespoon lime juice, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 ½ teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, ½ teaspoon allspice, ½ teaspoon each, salt & pepper.
Transfer the chicken and marinade into a ziploc plastic storage bag then squeeze out excess air while sealing securely.
Massage the marinade into the chicken pieces by squishing the bag contents around to thoroughly coat the chicken.
Refrigerate for 4 hours to marinate. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes
This marinade makes about 5 tablespoons or just under ⅓ cup of marinade. My two chicken breasts are just over 1 pound of chicken meat.If you will be grilling whole chicken breasts, it is best to flatten the chicken breasts for quick and even cooking. Place your chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic cling film and pound with a meat mallet or tenderizer ( the flat side ). Start at the center of the chicken breast and work your way toward the edges.