Scotch Bonnet Glaze Chicken
Scotch Bonnet Glaze Chicken is a vibrant Caribbean-inspired dish combining the fiery heat of Scotch bonnet peppers with a sweet, sticky glaze that locks in juicy tenderness. Perfectly balanced with citrus zing and umami depth, this versatile recipe works for grilling, roasting, or pan-searing, delivering layers of bold, spicy flavor ideal for family meals or entertaining guests.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including marinating time)
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Roasting, Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: Caribbean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Chicken
- 4–6 skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
Glaze
- 2–3 Scotch bonnet peppers (adjust to taste)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or gluten-free tamari)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for cooking)
Garnish
- Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped
- Prepare the Marinade: In a blender or food processor, combine Scotch bonnet peppers, minced garlic, chopped onion, lime juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and olive oil. Blend until smooth to create a vibrant and spicy glaze base.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl or resealable bag. Pour the fresh glaze over the chicken and coat evenly. Marinate for at least one hour, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Preheat Your Cooking Method: Choose your cooking method: grill, oven roast, or pan-sear. Preheat your grill or oven to 375°F (190°C). If pan-searing, heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a little olive oil.
- Cook the Chicken: Place marinated chicken on the grill, in the oven, or in the skillet. Cook for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with extra glaze to develop a sticky, caramelized coating. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain juices. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh Scotch bonnet peppers for the best authentic flavor and heat.
- Allow the chicken to rest after cooking so it stays juicy and tender.
- Remove seeds from peppers if you prefer a milder spice level without losing flavor.
- Marinate overnight for deeper, more intense flavor.
- Reserve some glaze for basting during cooking to enhance caramelization and moisture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (about 150g)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: Scotch Bonnet, Glaze Chicken, Caribbean, Spicy Chicken, Grilled Chicken, Sweet and Spicy, Gluten-Free