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“Caribbean Island Fiesta: Mouthwatering Jamaican Jerk Chicken Bites with Tropical Salsa”

Discover this Caribbean Island Fiesta recipe for mouthwatering Jerk Chicken Bites with Tropical Salsa, a perfect balance of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. This advanced-level dish is both visually stunning and packed with flavor, making it an excellent addition to any dinner party or gathering.

🕒 (Prep, Cook, Total): 20 min Prep; 20 min Cook; 40 min Total
🍽 Servings: 4
🔥 Difficulty: Advanced
🌎 Cuisine: Caribbean

Allergens

None

Ingredients

  • For the Jerk Chicken Bites: 8 chicken drumsticks 2 tablespoons allspice powder 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 tablespoon ground ginger 1 tablespoon dried thyme 2 teaspoons black pepper 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 4 tablespoons brown sugar 3 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons lime juice 1 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons vegetable oil For the Tropical Salsa: 1 cup fresh pineapple, chopped 1 cup fresh mango, chopped 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped 1 jalapeno pepper, seeds removed and minced 1 tablespoon lime juice Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. For the Jerk Chicken Bites:
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, thyme, black pepper, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, soy sauce, lime juice, salt, and vegetable oil. Mix well to form a thick paste.
  3. Coat each chicken drumstick with the jerk seasoning paste, ensuring every surface is covered. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for enhanced flavor.
  4. Preheat your grill to medium high heat. Grill the marinated chicken drumsticks for about 20 minutes, turning frequently until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For the Tropical Salsa:
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine pineapple, mango, red onion, cilantro, jalapeno pepper, and lime juice. Gently stir to mix well. Season with salt as needed. Set aside.

Chef’s Insight

To achieve that perfect char on the jerk chicken, be sure to cook over direct heat and turn frequently to avoid burning. The combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors in this dish is a true testament to Caribbean cuisine.

Notes

Be sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture. Adjust spice levels according to your preference.

Cultural or Historical Background

Jerk chicken has been a popular Jamaican dish for centuries, with origins believed to be from the indigenous Arawak and Taino people who used spices to preserve meats. The term "jerk" comes from the Spanish word "charquear," meaning to pierce or dry.