Jamaican Jerk Chicken Wings

Name: Jamaican Jerk Chicken Wings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken wings; 1 tablespoon allspice; 1 tablespoon thyme leaves; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon nutmeg; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 inch piece of ginger, grated; 2 scallions, chopped; 2 Scotch Bonnet peppers, chopped (adjust for spice level); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 lime

Highlighted under: World Cuisine

I love making Jamaican Jerk Chicken Wings because they bring a taste of the Caribbean right to my kitchen. The blend of spices in the jerk marinade is rich and aromatic, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that fills my home. Each bite is a tantalizing experience, combining heat and sweetness that dances on my palate. Pairing these wings with a cooling dip elevates the flavor profile even further, making them a perfect snack for any gathering or celebration.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:26:27.929Z

Making Jamaican Jerk Chicken Wings was a delightful journey into Caribbean cuisine for me. The first time I tried the jerk marinade, I was amazed by how simple ingredients like allspice, thyme, and Scotch Bonnet peppers could transform chicken into something so vibrant and flavorful. I learned that marinating the wings overnight really enhances the flavor, allowing all those spices to penetrate deeply.

One crucial tip I discovered is to balance the heat with sweetness. I often add a touch of honey to the marinade, which helps to caramelize the wings beautifully as they cook. The result is wings that have a crispy exterior while remaining juicy on the inside—truly the best of both worlds!

        Why You'll Love These Wings
        The authentic spice blend delivers a captivating flavor experience.
Perfectly crispy skin with succulent, tender meat.
A great appetizer for parties or game days.

      

Understanding the Jerk Marinade

The jerk seasoning is essential for authentic Jamaican Jerk Chicken Wings. The unique combination of spices, such as allspice and Scotch Bonnet peppers, provides a complex flavor profile that balances heat and sweetness. Allspice acts as a warm base, while the Scotch Bonnet peppers deliver a serious kick. If this level of heat is overwhelming, consider using milder peppers or reducing the amount used, but keep in mind that it may alter the authentic flavor slightly.

Marinating the wings infuses them with the jerk seasoning's intricate flavors. For the best results, allow the wings to marinate overnight. This extended time allows the spices to penetrate deeply into the meat, making each bite intensely flavorful. If you’re short on time, aim for a minimum of two hours, but be cautious, as insufficient marination may result in bland wings.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Baking the wings on a wire rack is key to achieving crispy skin. This method allows hot air to circulate around the wings, ensuring even cooking and preventing excess grease from accumulating. If you don’t have a wire rack, you can use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, but the texture may not be as crispy. Keep an eye on the wings during the last few minutes of baking to avoid overcooking; they should be golden brown and sizzling.

For those looking for an added smoky flavor, consider finishing your wings on a grill after baking. Just a few minutes over direct heat can elevate the overall taste and provide that coveted char flavor. If grilling, be sure to watch closely to avoid burning, as the sugars in the marinade can caramelize quickly.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Jamaican Jerk Chicken Wings:

Ingredients

2 pounds chicken wings
1 tablespoon allspice
1 tablespoon thyme leaves
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons brown sugar
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 inch piece of ginger, grated
2 scallions, chopped
2 Scotch Bonnet peppers, chopped (adjust for spice level)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lime

Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready before moving on to the cooking steps.

Instructions

Here’s how to create your delicious Jamaican Jerk Chicken Wings:

Prepare the Marinade

In a blender, combine all the marinade ingredients: allspice, thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, black pepper, salt, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, scallions, Scotch Bonnet peppers, soy sauce, olive oil, and lime juice. Blend until smooth.

Marinate the Wings

Place the chicken wings in a large bowl or zip-top bag, and pour the marinade over them. Make sure the wings are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on the baking sheet.

Bake the Wings

Arrange the marinated wings on the wire rack in a single layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, turning them halfway through for even cooking.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the wings are crispy and golden brown, remove them from the oven. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy the burst of flavors!

Don’t forget to let the wings rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices!

Pro Tips

For an even stronger flavor, consider smoking the wings on the grill instead of baking them. Just ensure that you keep an eye on them for optimal cooking.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your Jamaican Jerk Chicken Wings experience, pair them with a cooling dip—a classic choice is a yogurt-based tzatziki that contrasts nicely with the spiciness. Alternatively, you can make a mango salsa incorporating chopped mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice for a refreshing contrast. This will elevate the meal and provide a burst of freshness in each bite.

These wings make an excellent appetizer or main dish. You can serve them alongside a traditional side like rice and peas, which harmonizes beautifully with the spicy notes of the wings. If you’re entertaining, consider presenting the wings on a large platter garnished with fresh lime wedges and cilantro for an appealing display.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These wings can be marinated ahead of time, making them a perfect option for meal prep. Prepare the marinade and coat the wings a day in advance. Simply store them in the fridge, and they'll absorb the flavors beautifully. If you're looking to freeze them, marinate and then freeze the wings in a zip-top bag. You can cook them directly from frozen, just extend the baking time by 10 to 15 minutes for thorough cooking.

Leftover wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat and maintain crispiness, bake them again in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes, until warmed through. You can also pop them back in an air fryer for a few minutes, which helps to revive their crispiness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs or drumsticks; just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ How can I make the marinade less spicy?

You can reduce the number of Scotch Bonnet peppers or substitute with milder peppers.

→ Can I grill the wings instead of baking them?

Absolutely! Grilling will add a wonderful smoky flavor to the wings.

→ What should I serve these wings with?

They pair perfectly with a cooling dipping sauce, veggies, or a tropical fruit salad.