Baked Jamaican Jerk Chicken Wings

Introduction

Baked Jamaican Jerk Chicken Wings are a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines spicy scotch bonnet peppers with a homemade jerk seasoning. This recipe offers a deliciously bold experience with a perfect balance of heat and sweetness, making it a great choice for gatherings or game day.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:
3 lbs organic chicken wings, disjointed
2 scotch bonnet peppers, chopped

For the Homemade Jerk Seasoning:
2-3 tablespoons homemade jerk dry rub seasoning

For the BBQ Jerk Sauce:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or vegan butter for a dairy-free option)
2 cups premium BBQ sauce
Jerk broth from baked chicken (see instructions below)
2 thyme sprigs
1/2 cup organic chicken stock
1-2 tablespoons jerk seasoning paste (Grace brand recommended)
1-2 tablespoons cornstarch (mixed with 3-6 tablespoons warm water)

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   Clean and rinse the chicken wings. In a large bowl, mix the wings with chopped scotch bonnet peppers and jerk seasoning. Ensure all wings are fully coated. Let the wings sit for 10-15 minutes, or for best results, marinate overnight in the fridge.
2. Bake the Chicken:
   Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish or foil baking pan. Spread the marinated chicken wings in the dish and cover tightly with foil. Bake for 30-35 minutes until mostly cooked through. Drain the jerk broth from the chicken and set it aside. Return the wings to the oven (uncovered) and bake for another 5-10 minutes to dry them out slightly.
3. Make the BBQ Jerk Sauce:
   In a saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter, then add the BBQ sauce, jerk broth, jerk seasoning, and chicken stock. Stir and bring to a boil for 2-3 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-low, add the cornstarch mixture and thyme sprigs, and stir until the sauce thickens.
4. Coat the Wings:
   Brush or spoon the BBQ jerk sauce over the wings until fully coated. Bake the wings (without foil) for another 10-15 minutes, or broil them for the last 10 minutes to achieve a crispy, caramelized finish. Be sure to watch closely to avoid burning.
5. Serve:
   Serve the jerk chicken wings with your favorite sides like grilled corn, rice, or veggies. Enjoy with traditional hard-dough bread if desired!

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings. The total time for preparation and cooking is about 1 hour and 10 minutes, including marination time.

Variations

• Spice Level: Adjust the number of scotch bonnet peppers to increase or decrease heat.
• BBQ Sauce: Experiment with different BBQ sauces for unique flavor profiles.
• Herb Additions: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added freshness.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave for a quicker option.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken wings?
   Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed before marinating.
2. What if I can’t find scotch bonnet peppers?
   You can substitute with habanero peppers, but adjust for heat accordingly.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, as long as the BBQ sauce and jerk seasoning are gluten-free.
4. Can I bake the wings without marinating?
   Marinating enhances the flavor, but you can skip it if you’re short on time.
5. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
   The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
6. Can I grill the wings instead?
   Yes, grilling can add a delicious smoky flavor. Cook on medium heat, turning occasionally.
7. What sides pair well with jerk chicken wings?
   Rice and peas, coleslaw, or a fresh salad are great options.
8. Can I use a different type of chicken?
   Thighs or drumsticks can also be used with similar results.
9. How spicy are these wings?
   They have a spicy kick; adjust the peppers and seasoning to your taste.
10. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
    Yes, simply substitute the butter with vegan butter.

Conclusion

Baked Jamaican Jerk Chicken Wings offer a tantalizing mix of flavors that will spice up any meal. With a delicious marinade and a sweet, tangy BBQ sauce, these wings are perfect for parties, game days, or any occasion where bold flavors are welcome. Enjoy this fiery dish that promises to be a crowd-pleaser!

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