Walkerswood Jerk Chicken Recipe | Authentic Jamaican Style
Craving a taste of the Caribbean? My Walkerswood Jerk Chicken Recipe brings the authentic flavors of Jamaica right to your kitchen. Made with the famous Walkerswood Jerk Seasoning, this dish is smoky, spicy, tangy, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or baking indoors, this jerk chicken is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Preparation & Marinating
The magic of jerk chicken lies in the Walkerswood Jerk Seasoning, which packs bold flavors of Scotch bonnet peppers, scallions, thyme, and allspice. All you need to do is let the chicken soak in it.
Step 1: Clean & Prep the Chicken
Start by rinsing your chicken under cold water, then pat it dry with paper towels. Drying the chicken helps the marinade stick better and ensures a nice char on the grill.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine:
- Walkerswood jerk seasoning
- Olive oil
- Lime juice
- Brown sugar (if using, to balance the spice)
Mix until smooth and fragrant.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Place your chicken pieces into the bowl and rub the marinade all over until each piece is coated evenly.
Step 4: Marinate the Chicken
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, let it sit overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the deeper the seasoning penetrates.
Cooking Walkerswood Jerk Chicken
Whether you’re firing up the grill or using your oven, this jerk chicken will come out juicy, smoky, and bursting with Caribbean flavor.
Grilling Instructions (Traditional Method)
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Remove from Marinade: Take the chicken out of the fridge, shake off any excess marinade, and season lightly with salt.
- Grill the Chicken: Place chicken on the hot grill and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature has reached 165°F.
- Rest & Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing so the juices redistribute.
Oven-Baked Instructions (Easy Alternative)
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare a Baking Sheet: Line with foil or parchment and lightly oil.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Broil for Extra Char: For that grilled, smoky effect, switch to broil for the last 3–5 minutes.
Serving & Decoration
Serving Suggestions
Walkerswood Jerk Chicken is bold, smoky, and spicy, so it pairs beautifully with cooling and flavorful sides. Here are some ideas to serve it just like in Jamaica:
- Rice & Peas: A Caribbean classic made with coconut milk, red kidney beans, and thyme.
- Grilled Pineapple or Mango Salsa: Adds a refreshing sweetness that balances the spice.
- Plantains: Fried or baked ripe plantains bring a caramelized richness.
- Coleslaw: A crisp, creamy side that cools the heat of the jerk seasoning.
Garnish your plate with fresh lime wedges and a sprinkle of cilantro for a burst of freshness.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerating Jerk Chicken
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F to keep the chicken juicy.
Freezing Jerk Chicken
If you want to save it for later, wrap cooked jerk chicken tightly in foil or freezer bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Walkerswood Jerk Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Video
Notes
Required Kitchen Tools
To make authentic Walkerswood jerk chicken at home, you don’t need fancy equipment, but these tools will make your cooking smooth and enjoyable:- Mixing Bowl: To combine the jerk marinade and coat the chicken evenly.
- Tongs: For flipping chicken on the grill or in the oven without losing juices.
- Grill or Oven: A grill gives the chicken that smoky, charred flavor, while the oven is a convenient alternative.
- Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: For trimming chicken and slicing before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions about Walkerswood Jerk Chicken
Is Walkerswood Jerk Seasoning spicy?
Yes, Walkerswood Jerk Seasoning is traditionally spicy because it’s made with Scotch bonnet peppers. However, you can choose between mild or hot versions depending on your heat preference. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less seasoning and balance it with a touch of brown sugar or honey.
Can I use Walkerswood Jerk Seasoning on other meats?
Absolutely! While chicken is the most popular, Walkerswood Jerk Seasoning also works beautifully on pork, shrimp, fish, lamb, and even tofu. It’s a versatile marinade that adds authentic Jamaican flavor to almost any protein.
Can I bake jerk chicken instead of grilling?
Yes! If you don’t have a grill, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes. For extra char and smoky flavor, finish by broiling the chicken for 3–5 minutes.
How long should I marinate jerk chicken?
For the best results, marinate the chicken overnight. But if you’re short on time, even 30 minutes will give you great flavor. Scoring the chicken with shallow cuts will help the seasoning penetrate faster.
What sides go well with Walkerswood Jerk Chicken?
Traditional Jamaican sides include rice & peas, fried plantains, coleslaw, and grilled pineapple or mango salsa. These sides balance the spicy jerk chicken perfectly.
Can I freeze jerk chicken?
Yes! You can freeze marinated raw chicken for up to 2 months; it will continue to absorb flavors as it thaws. Cooked jerk chicken also freezes well for up to 2 months when wrapped tightly.
Where can I buy Walkerswood Jerk Seasoning?
Walkerswood Jerk Seasoning is widely available in Caribbean grocery stores, supermarkets, and online (Amazon, Walmart, and specialty food shops).
Conclusion
Making Walkerswood Jerk Chicken at home is easier than you think! With just a few ingredients and some marinating time, you can enjoy authentic Jamaican flavors right in your kitchen. Whether you grill it for that smoky char or bake it in the oven, this recipe delivers juicy, spicy, and flavorful chicken every single time.
So grab a jar of Walkerswood Jerk Seasoning, fire up your grill (or oven), and treat yourself to an authentic Caribbean experience.
Sophia Smith is a passionate home baker and dessert enthusiast who loves sharing her favorite recipes, baking tips, and kitchen secrets. Through Roses Baking Passion, she inspires others to bake with love and creativity every day.
