BBQ jerk chicken with charred, spiced coating cooked on a summer grill

BBQ Jerk Chicken Recipe (Easy British Summer BBQ Classic)

This easy jerk chicken recipe is built for bold, smoky flavour and proper British BBQ cooking. Whether you’re firing up the grill on a summer weekend or cooking for a laid-back family meal, this dish delivers heat, spice and that unmistakable jerk kick. The balance is everything here — char from the grill, deep seasoning, and juicy chicken that holds its own.

It’s a go-to British BBQ recipe when you want something that stands out from the usual sausages and burgers. Cook it low and steady for flavour, then finish hot for that signature caramelised edge. No fuss, no overthinking — just proper jerk chicken done right, whether you’re cooking outdoors or adapting it for the oven.

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35–45 minutes
Total Time: 50–60 minutes

Ingredients

Add all 4 ingredients (£18.40 total)

Jerk Chicken Leg (GF) (400g) x2

Jerk Chicken Leg (GF) (400g) x2

£7.20
Lime (each) x2

Lime (each) x2

cut into wedges

£1.20
The Black Farmer Honey 227g

The Black Farmer Honey 227g

2 tbsp

£6.40
Dunns River Jerk Seasoning Jar 300g

Dunns River Jerk Seasoning Jar 300g

1 tsp

£3.60

Additional Ingredients

  • olive oil - 1 tbsp
  • soy sauce - 1 tbsp

Method

Step 1 - Prepare your BBQ

Preheat your grill to medium heat—ideal for BBQ chicken recipes that need even cooking without burning.

Step 2 - Get the chicken ready

Remove your marinated jerk chicken legs from the fridge 10–15 minutes before cooking.

Brush lightly with olive oil and squeeze over fresh lime juice. This enhances the jerk chicken flavour without overpowering it.

Step 3 - Cook the jerk chicken on the BBQ

Place the chicken on the grill, skin-side down.

  • Cook for 20 minutes
  • Turn and cook for another 15–20 minutes

Turn occasionally for an even cook and that signature smoky finish you expect from a proper jerk chicken BBQ recipe.

Step 4 - Add a sticky glaze (optional)

Mix honey, soy sauce, and jerk seasoning.

Brush onto the chicken in the final 5 minutes for a rich, caramelised coating—perfect for anyone searching for a sweet and spicy BBQ chicken recipe.

Step 5 - Rest and serve

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Finish with lime wedges and serve with classic sides for a complete British BBQ meal with Caribbean twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Cook jerk chicken over medium heat, turning regularly, then finish over higher heat to get a charred, caramelised exterior without drying it out.

  • Yes, jerk chicken cooks well in the oven. Roast until fully cooked, then finish under a hot grill to achieve the charred edges.

  • Chicken should be cooked through until juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink in the centre.

  • Cooking time depends on the cut, but generally allow enough time for the chicken to cook through slowly before finishing over higher heat.

  • Jerk chicken pairs well with simple sides that balance the spice, such as rice dishes or fresh salads.