Jerk Grilled Chicken Wings Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Grilled Chicken Wings with Spicy Marinade

This recipe yields 4 servings of juicy, flavorful grilled chicken wings marinated with a zesty blend of citrus, herbs, and spices. Ideal for outdoor grilling, these wings are perfect for a summer barbecue or a savory appetizer.

Ingredients

• cup fresh squeezed orange juice
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh ginger
• 1 habanero pepper, seeded and chopped (use gloves)
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• teaspoon ground allspice
• teaspoon ground nutmeg
• teaspoon ground cinnamon
• cup vegetable oil
• 12 large chicken wings, tips removed and wings cut apart at the joint

Directions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, salt, black pepper, thyme, garlic, ginger, habanero pepper, curry powder, allspice, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Whisk until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.

Step 2: Slowly pour in the vegetable oil, continuing to whisk the marinade until it emulsifies and becomes well blended.

Step 3: Transfer of the marinade into a resealable plastic zipper bag. Add the chicken wing pieces, ensuring that the wings are evenly coated with the marinade. Squeeze out any excess air from the bag and seal it. Gently massage the bag to distribute the marinade over the wings. Refrigerate for 4 to 12 hours to marinate.

Step 4: Pour the remaining of the marinade into a small bowl and refrigerate. This will be used for basting during grilling.

Step 5: Preheat your outdoor grill to medium heat. Lightly oil the grill grate to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Remove the chicken wings from the marinade bag, discarding the used marinade. Sprinkle the wings with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Place the wings on the hottest part of the grill and sear for about 4 minutes per side, or until they begin to brown.

Step 8: Once the wings are browned, move them to a cooler part of the grill. Brush the wings with the reserved marinade and close the grill. Let the wings cook for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until golden brown, with good grill marks. Check for doneness by cutting into a wing to ensure the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.

Step 9: Baste the wings again with the remaining marinade and turn them every 5 to 8 minutes until they are fully cooked through.

Tips

• Make sure to wear gloves when handling the habanero pepper to avoid irritation.
• If you prefer a less spicy wing, you can omit the habanero pepper or use a milder chili variety.
• For extra flavor, consider adding a touch of honey or brown sugar to the marinade for a slight sweetness.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	373
Total Fat	35g	45%
Saturated Fat	6g	32%
Cholesterol	31mg	10%
Sodium	614mg	27%
Total Carbohydrate	6g	2%
Dietary Fiber	1g	5%
Total Sugars	2g
Protein	11g	21%
Vitamin C	16mg	18%
Calcium	31mg	2%
Iron	2mg	8%
Potassium	181mg	4%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Jerk Grilled Chicken Wings are a flavorful and spicy dish inspired by the vibrant Caribbean cuisine. With a tantalizing combination of citrus juices, aromatic spices, and fiery habanero pepper, these wings offer an unforgettable culinary experience.

Origin of Jerk Cuisine

Jerk cooking originated in Jamaica, with roots deeply embedded in the islands history. The term jerk refers to a traditional method of cooking, where meat is marinated in a flavorful seasoning blend, then slow-cooked over an open flame or grill. Originally developed by the Taino people, it was further shaped by African slaves who brought their own cooking techniques to the Caribbean. The blend of spices, including allspice and Scotch bonnet peppers, became the hallmark of jerk cuisine.

Regional Variations

Jerk seasoning and cooking methods are popular throughout the Caribbean, but Jamaica is particularly known for its jerk dishes. Different regions in Jamaica may add unique ingredients, such as local fruits or different levels of spiciness. For example, in the parish of Portland, the seasoning tends to have a slightly sweeter profile, with more fruit-based ingredients like pineapple. The beauty of jerk cuisine lies in its flexibility, allowing cooks to tailor the spice mix to their preference.

What Makes Jerk Wings Unique?

Unlike traditional grilled chicken, jerk wings stand out due to the bold flavors in their marinade. The key ingredientscitrus juices, fresh herbs, and hot peppersimbue the meat with both tangy and spicy flavors that intensify during grilling. This is a significant departure from other types of grilled wings, such as buffalo wings, which tend to focus on tangy or buttery flavors. The use of allspice, thyme, and nutmeg in jerk seasoning provides a distinct aromatic base that is not typically found in other wing recipes.

Where Are Jerk Wings Usually Served?

Jerk wings are a popular dish at Caribbean festivals, cookouts, and barbecues. They are commonly served as appetizers or snacks at both casual gatherings and formal events. The dish pairs beautifully with sides like rice and peas, fried plantains, or fresh salads. In addition to being a mainstay in Jamaican cuisine, jerk wings have gained popularity at Caribbean-themed restaurants and food festivals worldwide.

Interesting Facts about Jerk Cooking

• Jerk seasoning often includes Scotch bonnet peppers, which are among the hottest peppers in the world.
• The name "jerk" is believed to come from the Spanish word "charqui," which means dried meat, referring to the original method of preserving meat over fire.
• Jerk chicken was traditionally cooked in a pit, but nowadays, its often prepared on grills or in ovens, adapting to modern cooking styles.
• While the dish is typically associated with chicken, jerk seasoning is also used for pork, fish, and even vegetables.

Conclusion

Jerk Grilled Chicken Wings are a flavorful and bold dish that bring the heat and spice of Caribbean cuisine to your table. The marinade, rich with citrus and spicy seasonings, offers an unforgettable taste. Whether served at a lively BBQ or as part of a Caribbean feast, these wings are sure to delight anyone who loves bold and flavorful food. Try this recipe and bring a little bit of the Caribbean to your next gathering!

FAQ about Jerk Grilled Chicken Wings Recipe

Comments