Using Oranges In Jerk Chicken

The bright citrus flavor of oranges enhances many dishes from main meals to desserts. Because oranges are high in vitamin C, they are a very healthy food to cook with. Used in a marinade or sauce, oranges add a sweet-tart flavor to meat, seafood and tofu. Oranges are also a versatile ingredient in desserts, as they pair well with sweet spices and chocolate.

There are two commonly held theories regarding how the name "Jerk" came to be used. One is that it originates from the Spanish word "Charqui", used to describe dried meat. Over time this term evolved from "Charqui" to "Jerky" to "Jerk". Another theory is that the name derives from the practice of jerking (poking) holes in the meat to fill with spices prior to cooking. Nowadays, the word "Jerk" is used as a noun to describe the seasoning applied to jerked food and as a verb to describe the process of cooking used.

Hot, succulent Jamaican Jerk Chicken is a tropical treat. You'll love the heat and flavor of this fiery marinade.

Ingredients

1 whole chicken - cut into parts
4 oranges, juiced (Reserve Pulp)
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon brown sugar
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 1/2 teaspoons ground black pepper
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 onions, chopped
1 1/2 cups chopped green onions
6 cloves garlic, chopped
2 habanero peppers, chopped (optional to taste)

Directions

Place chicken in a medium bowl. Cover with orange juice and water. Set aside.

In a blender or food processor, place orange pulp, nutmeg, salt, brown sugar, thyme, ginger, black pepper and vegetable oil. Blend well, then mix in onions, green onions, garlic and habanero peppers until smooth.

Pour most of the blended marinade mixture into bowl with chicken, reserving a small amount to use as a sauce for serving. Cover, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

Preheat an oven 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook 45 minutes or until done... depends on oven.

Cover with remaining marinade mixture, serve. You can microwave for 30 seconds to take the chill of the mixture.

Preparation 20 minutes
Cooking 45 minutes
Ready In 3 hours 20 minutes

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Presented By:
Sunburst Oranges
180 South “E” Street
Porterville, CA  93257
559-561-3391