This Haitian Marinated Chicken recipe will bring bold, vibrant flavors to your dinner table. The juicy, tender chicken is infused with a delicious marinade of citrus, garlic, herbs, and spices, creating a taste you’ll love. This dish is perfect for those looking to try traditional Haitian flavors in a modern way!
4 chicken thighs or breasts (bone-in or boneless)
1 lime (juiced)
1 lemon (juiced)
2 tablespoons white vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, chopped
1 Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon ground thyme
1 teaspoon ground paprika
1 teaspoon allspice (pimento)
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine lime juice, lemon juice, white vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped onion, Scotch bonnet pepper, thyme, paprika, allspice, cumin, grated ginger, salt, and pepper.
Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken to a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight for more flavor).
Cook the Chicken:
Grill Option: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Pan-Sear Option: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Sear the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side until fully cooked and golden brown.
Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with your favorite sides like rice, plantains, or a fresh salad.
The Scotch bonnet pepper gives the dish a spicy kick, but you can adjust the quantity based on your heat preference.
Marinating the chicken overnight allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, making the chicken even more flavorful.
This recipe works well with both chicken thighs and breasts, but thighs are traditionally used in Haitian cooking for their juiciness.