Ingredients
1 whole chicken, cut into parts (about 3–4 lbs chicken pieces)
4 to 6 Scotch bonnet peppers, stems removed and chopped
1 small red onion, roughly chopped
4 to 6 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped
4 scallions (green onions), trimmed and chopped
¼ cup soy sauce
¼ cup white or apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 large orange (about ¾ cup)
Juice of ½ lime
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, combine Scotch bonnet peppers, onion, garlic, scallions, soy sauce, vinegar, olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, ginger, brown sugar, and spices. Blend until smooth.
- Make small cuts or shallow slits in the chicken pieces to help the marinade penetrate.
- Place the chicken in a large bowl or resealable bag. Pour marinade over the chicken, coat well, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Grill Method: Preheat grill to medium-high. Oil grates, remove chicken from marinade, and grill for 12–20 minutes, turning occasionally, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Oven Method: Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C). Place chicken on a foil- or parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake 35–40 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a milder version, reduce or replace Scotch bonnet peppers with a milder chili.
- Marinating overnight gives the best flavor.
- You can substitute chicken with tofu, tempeh, or vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Add coconut milk for a creamy twist.
- Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze for later use.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Baking
- Cuisine: Jamaican, Caribbean
- Diet: Halal
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (about 6 oz)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg