Easy Jamaican Jerk Chicken Recipe

Preheat the oven to 425F, positioning the rack on the lower middle position.

In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, brown sugar, thyme, allspice, smoked paprika, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to form a spice rub. Set the mixture aside.

Pat the chicken legs thoroughly dry using paper towels. Using a fork, poke holes on all sides of the chicken legs to help the spice rub penetrate the meat.

Carefully spread the spice rub underneath the skin of the chicken legs, using clean hands to press the mixture as far under the skin as possible. Ensure the rub is also spread evenly on top of the skin.

Arrange the chicken legs on a large rimmed baking sheet lined with foil, leaving space between each piece. For smaller chicken legs, bake for approximately 40 minutes; for larger legs, bake for about 50 minutes or until the chicken is nicely browned and cooked through.

Remove from the oven and serve immediately, spooning the flavorful pan drippings over the chicken.