Jerk Chicken is a popular dish originating from Jamaica, known for its bold flavors and spicy seasoning. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of spices, including allspice, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers, which give it a distinctive taste. It is traditionally cooked over an open flame or grilled, allowing the smoky flavor to enhance the dish.
This culinary style is part of a broader cooking technique called jerk, which can also be applied to other meats. Jerk cooking has roots in the Maroons, descendants of escaped slaves, who developed this method to preserve and flavor their food.