Slow Cooker Jerk Chicken

Jerk chicken is a Jamaican staple known for its bold, spicy flavors and deep aromatic essence. Using a slow cooker brings out the best in this dish, allowing the spices to fully penetrate the meat for a tender, fall-off-the-bone experience. With a marinade made from traditional jerk spices like allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers, this slow-cooked version delivers all the fiery flavor without the need to stand by the grill. It’s perfect for an easy weeknight meal or a weekend gathering. Serve it with rice and peas or steamed vegetables to round out the meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs or legs
• 1 tablespoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 scotch bonnet peppers, chopped (adjust for heat preference)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 green onions, chopped

Instructions:

1. Prepare the marinade: In a blender or food processor, combine the allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, thyme, garlic, scotch bonnet peppers, onion, ginger, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl or zip-lock bag. Pour the jerk marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. Slow cook the chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge and transfer it to the slow cooker. Add the chopped green onions over the top. Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4. Serve: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the slow cooker and serve with your choice of sides like rice, peas, or steamed vegetables.

Enjoy the spicy, flavorful taste of Jamaican jerk chicken with the ease of slow cooking!