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Jamaican Jerk Chicken Drumsticks Recipe with Easy Zesty Mango Salsa

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Flavorful Jamaican jerk chicken drumsticks paired with a zesty mango salsa, offering a perfect balance of smoky heat and fresh sweetness. Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for summer cookouts and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 chicken drumsticks (skin on for best flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 Scotch bonnet pepper or habanero, finely chopped (use sparingly)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 large ripe mango, diced
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons red onion, finely minced
  • Small handful fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Make the Jerk Marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, thyme, allspice, cinnamon, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, Scotch bonnet pepper, nutmeg, salt, black pepper, and lime juice. Whisk until well combined.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Pat dry the chicken drumsticks with paper towels. Toss them in the jerk marinade, ensuring each piece is generously coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 1-2 hours.
  3. Prepare the Mango Salsa: Dice mango, chop red bell pepper, mince red onion, chop cilantro, and mince jalapeño (if using). Combine all in a small bowl, add lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir gently and refrigerate until serving.
  4. Preheat Grill or Pan: Heat grill to medium-high (about 400°F) or heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat with a touch of oil.
  5. Cook the Drumsticks: Place drumsticks on grill or skillet. Cook for 15-20 minutes, turning every 4-5 minutes until skin is crisp and charred and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Optionally finish under broiler for 2-3 minutes for extra crispness.
  6. Rest and Serve: Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve warm with a generous scoop of mango salsa.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes, ideally 1-2 hours or overnight for deeper flavor. Adjust heat by using less Scotch bonnet or substituting with milder peppers. If cooking indoors, finish under broiler for crispiness. Avoid microwave for reheating to keep skin crispy. Use indirect heat on grill to prevent burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: Jamaican jerk chicken, chicken drumsticks, mango salsa, Caribbean recipe, spicy chicken, grilled chicken, summer cookout, easy dinner

Find it online: https://fizzlefork.com/jamaican-jerk-chicken-drumsticks-recipe-with-easy-zesty-mango-salsa/