Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary Caribbean feast! This Indo Carib Grilled Chicken recipe is not just a meal, it's a vibrant explosion of spices, zesty lime, and perfectly charred chicken that will transport you to the sun-soaked islands with every single bite. Whether you're a grilling enthusiast or a home cook looking to spice up your recipe repertoire, this dish promises restaurant-quality flavor that will leave your family and friends begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Caribbean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- Remove chicken thighs from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, ensuring even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and fresh lime juice. Whisk ingredients together to create a marinade.
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better seasoning adherence and crispy skin.
- Place chicken thighs in the marinade, thoroughly coating each piece. Cover and let marinate for at least 15 minutes, or ideally 2-4 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor penetration.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat, approximately 375-400°F. Clean and oil grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Discard remaining marinade to prevent cross-contamination.
- Place chicken thighs on the grill, skin-side down. Grill for 6-8 minutes until skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Flip chicken and continue grilling for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 5-7 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
- Garnish with fresh lime wedges and chopped cilantro if desired. Serve hot with rice, grilled vegetables, or Caribbean-style side dishes.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Always let chicken come to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking and prevent dry meat.
- Marination Magic: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2-4 hours. The longer it marinates, the more intense the flavors become.
- Grill Management: Use medium-high heat and clean, oiled grates to prevent sticking and achieve those beautiful grill marks.
- Internal Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Resting Period: Allow the chicken to rest after grilling to help redistribute juices, keeping the meat moist and tender.
- Optional Enhancements: Garnish with fresh lime wedges and chopped cilantro for an extra burst of freshness and color.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 110mg
