Caribbean Jerk Chicken Thighs with Mango-Kiwi Salsa Recipe

This dish is a harmonious fusion of traditional Caribbean flavors with a touch of the Pacific Islands. It's inspired by a beautiful sunset on a Caribbean beach, the sand warm beneath your feet, and the vibrant rhythms of steel drums filling the air, combined with the lush, verdant landscapes of the Pacific Islands.

Ingredients:

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

• 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon lime juice

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt to taste

For the Mango-Kiwi Salsa:

• 1 ripe mango, diced

• 2 ripe kiwis, peeled and diced

• 1 small red onion, finely diced

• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced

• Juice of 1 lime

• A handful of fresh cilantro leaves, finely chopped

• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. In a bowl, combine jerk seasoning, brown sugar, soy sauce, lime juice, olive oil, and salt. Rub this mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight.

2. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. If using an oven, preheat to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. Grill or bake the chicken thighs, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through and the skin is crispy. This should take around 35-40 minutes.

4. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the salsa. Combine the diced mango, kiwi, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and chopped cilantro in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper and mix well.

5. Serve the jerk chicken thighs hot, topped with a generous scoop of mango-kiwi salsa.

Cooking Time & Servings: Prep time is around 15 minutes (plus marinating time), and cooking time is 35-40 minutes. This recipe serves 3-4 people.

Drink Pairing: A chilled glass of fruity white rum punch or a light and zesty Sauvignon Blanc would pair beautifully with this dish. For a non-alcoholic option, a pineapple and ginger cooler would work well.

Chef's Tips:

1. Marinating the chicken overnight allows for deeper flavor penetration.

2. If you want a spicier salsa, leave the seeds in the jalapeño.

3. You can grill some lime halves alongside the chicken, and squeeze over the dish before serving for a smoky citrus twist.