Myles Stephenson’s Jerk Chicken Recipe | Authentic Jamaican Flavours
My Nan’s Jerk Chicken Recipe
Growing up, one of the dishes that always brought my family together was my Nan’s jerk chicken. It’s fiery, smoky, and full of the big, bold flavours that Jamaican food is all about.
For me, jerk chicken isn’t just about heat – it’s about balance. Sweet, spicy, smoky, tangy, all coming together to create a dish that absolutely smacks. Whether you throw it on the BBQ or roast it in the oven, this recipe will transport you straight to the Caribbean.
Here’s how my Nan taught me to make it.
Ingredients
For the Marinade
6–8 chicken thighs (skin-on, bone-in works best)
6 spring onions (scallions), chopped
1 onion, chopped
3–4 Scotch bonnet peppers (adjust to spice tolerance), chopped
3 cloves garlic
1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, peeled
Juice of 1 lime
2 bay leaves
Dash of white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp browning
2 tbsp brown sugar
2 tbsp vegetable oil
2 tsp allspice (pimento seeds)
1 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh sprigs if you have them)
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt
Method
Step 1: Make the Marinade
Add all the marinade ingredients into a food processor and blend until smooth.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Score the chicken (make small cuts in the skin) so the flavours get deep inside. Rub the marinade all over, making sure to get under the skin. Cover and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 4 hours.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Grill/BBQ (the best way): Cook over medium heat coals for 30–40 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through with a nice char.
Oven Method: Bake at 190°C / 375°F for 35–45 minutes, then finish under the grill/broiler to get that charred edge.
Step 4: Serve
Traditionally, jerk chicken is served with rice & peas – but it also slaps with fried plantain, coleslaw, or even wrapped up in flatbread with salad.
Why This Recipe Works
✅ Authentic Flavour – Scotch bonnets, allspice, thyme, and browning give it that real Jamaican taste.
✅ Family-Approved – this is straight from my Nan’s kitchen, so you know it’s the real deal.
✅ Versatile Cooking – BBQ for smokiness, or oven-bake if you want it easy.
Final Thoughts
This jerk chicken recipe is proper soul food. It’s bold, fiery, and packed with flavour – the perfect dish to bring people together.
If you make it, tag me on socials so I can see your plate. And trust me, once you’ve had this, you’ll never look at chicken the same way again.
👉 For more of my recipes and food challenges, check out my YouTube channel: @mylesstephensonofficial