Caribbean-Jerk Chicken Skewers

Name: Caribbean-Jerk Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; 1 tablespoon ground allspice; 1 tablespoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1-2 teaspoons scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Highlighted under: World Feast | Global Banquet

I absolutely love these Caribbean-Jerk Chicken Skewers! The moment I first tried this recipe, I was transported to the vibrant streets of the Caribbean with every spicy bite. Marinating the chicken overnight really allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in juicy, tender pieces that are perfectly charred on the grill. Whether I’m serving these skewers at a barbecue or enjoying a quiet night in, they always deliver a taste of sunshine that brightens up any meal.

Created by

Mia

Last updated on 2026-02-19T19:03:18.416Z

During one of my trips to the Caribbean, the aromas of spicy jerk seasoning captivated my senses. When I came back, I knew I had to recreate that experience at home. After many attempts, I've perfected this marinade that truly captures the spirit of the islands. I recommend letting the chicken marinate for at least six hours, as this really enhances the jerk flavor.

Grilling is the best method for cooking these skewers, as it adds a beautiful char that elevates the dish. I often serve them with a cooling mango salsa, which balances out the heat of the jerk spices remarkably well. Trust me, once you try these, you'll keep coming back for more!

        Why You'll Love These Skewers
        Fiery and fragrant marinade that delivers big on flavor
Perfectly juicy chicken that’s grilled to perfection
Quick and easy to prepare for any gathering

      

Mastering the Marinade

The marinade for Caribbean-Jerk Chicken Skewers is the heart of the dish. The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and fresh lime juice creates a complex flavor profile that balances savory, sweet, and tart notes. Brown sugar not only adds sweetness but also aids in achieving those caramelized, crispy edges when grilled. Make sure to whisk the marinade thoroughly until the brown sugar fully dissolves, allowing it to coat the chicken evenly for maximum flavor infusion.

When incorporating the scotch bonnet pepper, adjust the quantity according to your heat preference. Start with one teaspoon if you're sensitive to spice, gradually increasing to two teaspoons for a bolder kick. The heat from this pepper is what truly captures the essence of Caribbean cuisine, but it can dominate if used excessively. Personally, I love the intense flavor it brings, but finding that balance is key to enjoying these skewers.

Grilling Techniques

Grilling the skewers to perfection requires preheating your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that the chicken cooks through while developing a beautifully charred exterior. If possible, use a grill thermometer to monitor the heat accurately, which helps prevent undercooked chicken and burnt edges. Visual cues like a slight caramelization and grill marks after 3-4 minutes per side indicate you’re on the right track.

It's essential to turn the skewers occasionally during grilling. Aim for about 12-15 minutes of total cooking time. This method prevents uneven cooking and allows the chicken to develop that enticing smoky flavor from the grill. If you notice the chicken is browning too quickly, simply move the skewers to a cooler part of the grill to avoid charring while the inside finishes cooking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Caribbean-Jerk Chicken Skewers:

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon ground allspice
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1-2 teaspoons scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Make sure to marinate chicken for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your delicious Caribbean-Jerk Chicken Skewers:

Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, stir together soy sauce, brown sugar, vegetable oil, lime juice, allspice, thyme, cinnamon, and scotch bonnet pepper. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Marinate the Chicken

Add the cubed chicken to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.

Assemble the Skewers

Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.

Grill the Skewers

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm, perhaps with a side of mango salsa.

Your Caribbean-Jerk Chicken Skewers are now ready to impress!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of coconut milk to the marinade for a tropical twist.

Serving Suggestions

These Caribbean-Jerk Chicken Skewers are incredibly versatile. Pair them with a fresh mango salsa to complement the spicy notes with a fruity sweetness. A simple mix of diced mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice creates a zesty topping that elevates each bite. Alternatively, consider serving with a cooling cucumber salad or rice, which can help balance the marinade's bold flavors.

Don't hesitate to get creative with your side dishes. Roasted plantains or a corn salad with lime vinaigrette both work wonderfully with these skewers. They add a Caribbean touch that enhances the overall dining experience, making your meal more vibrant and flavorful.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to prepare these skewers in advance, marinating the chicken overnight not only infuses it with flavor but incredibly makes for quicker assembly the next day. You can also marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing the marinated chicken in a sealed bag; it can last up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before grilling.

Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a grill or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This way, you can enjoy the smoky flavor again without sacrificing texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Definitely! Thighs work well and will give you even juicier skewers.

→ Is scotch bonnet pepper necessary?

If you can’t find it, you can substitute with jalapeños for a milder option.

→ How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate it for up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.

→ Can I cook these skewers in the oven?

Yes! You can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway.