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Crispy Caribbean Jerk Chicken Drumsticks

crispy caribbean jerk chicken drumsticks - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy, flavorful Caribbean jerk chicken drumsticks with a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and sweet flavors. Ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2 pounds or 900 grams), skin-on
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning blend
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Optional: fresh thyme or scallions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to remove moisture.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, jerk seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, ground allspice, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to blend.
  4. Drizzle olive oil and lime juice over the drumsticks, then sprinkle the dry rub evenly over them. Massage the spices into the chicken thoroughly.
  5. Place the drumsticks spaced out on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet to allow air circulation.
  6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping the drumsticks halfway through, until the skin is deep golden brown and caramelized.
  7. Check doneness with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, pierce the thickest part to ensure juices run clear.
  8. Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
  9. If the skin isn’t crispy enough, broil for 2-3 minutes watching carefully to avoid burning.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before applying rub to ensure crispiness. Use a wire rack for even cooking and crisp skin. Flip drumsticks halfway through baking. Rest chicken before serving. Broil briefly if extra crispiness is desired. For spicier version, add Scotch bonnet peppers or hot sauce. Can be grilled after baking for smoky flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caribbean jerk chicken, crispy chicken drumsticks, easy jerk chicken, spicy chicken recipe, quick dinner, Caribbean cuisine