Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for an authentic, flavorful dish that brings a taste of Jamaica to your kitchen, this recipe for Jamaican Curry Chicken will not disappoint. The combination of marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices creates a wonderfully balanced and mouthwatering curry that is hearty enough for a full meal. It’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something extra delicious. The best part? It’s easy to make and only requires a few simple ingredients to deliver incredible results.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken (cut into pieces)

• 2 tablespoons Jamaican curry powder

• 1 teaspoon allspice (pimento)

• 1 medium onion (sliced)

• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 tablespoon ginger (grated)

• 2 medium potatoes (cubed)

• 2 medium carrots (sliced)

• 1 bell pepper (sliced)

• 2-3 spring onions (chopped)

• 2-3 cups chicken broth or water

• 1-2 scotch bonnet peppers (whole for mild heat or diced for more heat)

• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

• Salt to taste

• Black pepper to taste

• Fresh thyme (optional for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with Jamaican curry powder, allspice, garlic, ginger, salt, and black pepper. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight in the refrigerator if time permits).

2. Heat Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.

3. Sauté Onion: Add sliced onions to the pot and sauté until they are translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

4. Add Chicken: Introduce the marinated chicken pieces to the pot. Brown the chicken on all sides, allowing the spices to release their aromas.

5. Incorporate Vegetables: Add the cubed potatoes, sliced carrots, and bell pepper. Stir well to coat them in the curry.

6. Add Liquid: Pour in the chicken broth (or water) until the ingredients are just covered. You can adjust the amount based on your preference for curry sauce thickness.

7. Heat the Scotch Bonnet: Add the whole scotch bonnet pepper to the pot for a gentle heat. For a spicier kick, you can slice the pepper open before adding it.

8. Simmer: Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

9. Check for Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more broth or water.

Servings and Timing

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

• Servings: 4-6 servings

• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (after marinating)

Variations

• Vegan Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or a plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

• More Heat: For a spicier version, chop the scotch bonnet pepper before adding it to the pot. Adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance.

• Coconut Milk: For a richer sauce, add a cup of coconut milk to the broth for extra creaminess.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Jamaican Curry Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the curry in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

FAQs

1. How do I make the curry less spicy?

To reduce the heat, use only one scotch bonnet pepper and leave it whole during cooking. Avoid slicing it to keep the spice level lower.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work perfectly in this recipe and will provide extra tenderness and flavor.

3. Can I freeze Jamaican Curry Chicken?

Yes, this dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before storing it in an airtight container.

4. What is the best way to marinate the chicken?

For the best results, marinate the chicken for at least an hour. If you have more time, marinate it overnight in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to fully infuse the meat.

5. Can I use regular curry powder instead of Jamaican curry powder?

While Jamaican curry powder has a unique blend of spices, you can substitute it with regular curry powder if you don’t have it. However, the flavor will be slightly different.

6. What can I serve with Jamaican Curry Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with white rice, steamed vegetables, or even fried dumplings. You can also serve it with roti or naan for a more authentic Caribbean experience.

7. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can transfer the marinated chicken and vegetables into a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.

8. How can I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes or mash some of the potatoes to release their starch.

9. Is Jamaican Curry Chicken healthy?

This dish can be part of a balanced meal when enjoyed with vegetables and served with a side of rice. It is flavorful and packed with nutrients from the vegetables and spices.

10. Can I add other vegetables to the curry?

Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like peas, sweet potatoes, or zucchini to the curry to suit your tastes.

Conclusion

Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish that brings the heat and vibrant spices of the Caribbean straight to your table. Whether you enjoy it spicy or mild, with or without extra vegetables, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. The bold flavors of the curry, combined with tender chicken and hearty vegetables, make for a satisfying meal that’s sure to delight. So go ahead and bring the island vibes into your kitchen with this incredible Jamaican curry chicken!