Carmen'z Kitchen

GUAVA JERK CHICKEN

🍴 Serves 4
⏰ 45-50 minutes

INGREDIENTS


For the Guava Jerk Chicken Drumsticks:

  • 8 chicken drumsticks
  • 3 tablespoons jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ¼ cup guava paste or guava jelly
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey

For the Yellow Rice:

  • 1 cup basmati or jasmine rice
  • 1¾ cups low-sodium chicken stock
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ¼ cup onion, finely diced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 can of petite diced tomatoes (in garlic and olive oil)
  • 1 tablespoon sofrito

For the Steamed Broccolini:

  • 1 bunch broccolini, trimmed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Pinch of sea salt and black pepper

SIDES, VARIATIONS, & TOPPINGS (OPTIONAL)

  • Cucumber and Tomato Salad: A simple salad of sliced cucumbers and tomatoes dressed with lime juice, salt, and a pinch of black pepper
  • Mango Salsa: Combine diced mango, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and a hint of chili for a vibrant topping or side.
  • Fried Plantains: Sweet, ripe plantains sliced and fried until golden brown provide a sweet contrast to the spicy jerk chicken.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Prepare and Marinate the Chicken

  • Pat the drumsticks dry with a paper towel.
  • In a large bowl, mix the jerk seasoning, olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, and honey.
  • Add the chicken drumsticks and toss to coat thoroughly. Let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Place the marinated drumsticks on a foil-lined baking sheet or in a roasting pan.
  • Heat the guava paste in a small saucepan over low heat until melted (or microwave for 10-15 seconds), then brush it generously over the drumsticks.
  • Roast for 30-35 minutes, basting with the guava glaze halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown.

Step 3: Prepare the Yellow Rice

  • Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened (2-3 minutes).
  • Stir in the diced tomatoes, sofrito , turmeric, and cumin and simmer for another 5 minutes.
  • Stir in the rice until the rice is coated in the spices.
  • Add the chicken stock and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  • Fluff with a fork before serving.

Step 4: Steam the Broccolini

  • Bring a pot of water to a boil and add a steaming basket.
  • Place the broccolini in the basket, cover, and steam for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp.
  • Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper.

Plating

  1. Plate 1-2 chicken drumsticks per person alongside a serving of yellow rice and steamed broccolini.
  2. Drizzle any remaining guava glaze over the chicken for added flavor.

HEALTHY TIPS

  • Use skinless drumsticks to reduce saturated fat content.
  • Substitute brown rice for added fiber and nutrients.
  • Add a side salad or fresh fruit for more vitamins and a refreshing contrast.
  • Reduce the amount of guava paste and honey for a lower sugar option.
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