Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with flavor and warmth, my Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is just the ticket! This recipe has been a cherished favorite in my kitchen for years. The combination of aromatic spices and tender chicken creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you’re new to Jamaican cuisine or a seasoned fan, this dish will surely delight your taste buds and transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Jamaica.

What I love most about this recipe is not just the rich flavors but also how easy it is to prepare. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be enjoying a hearty, spicy meal in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Flavor: The unique blend of spices makes every bite an explosion of deliciousness.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the mild sweetness balanced with just the right amount of heat.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: It’s even better the next day! Prep it ahead of time and let the flavors meld together.
• Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer peppers based on your preference.
• Comforting & Satisfying: Perfect for cozy dinners at home, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients will set you on your way to making this delightful dish. Don’t worry if some items are unfamiliar; they can usually be found at your local grocery store or online!

For the Chicken

• 3-4 lbs. organic chicken, skin removed (Drumsticks + Thigh pieces work great!)
• 1-2 Tbsps browning, optional (See Notes!)
• 2-3 Tbsps Jamaican Green Seasoning
• 2 Tbsps Jamaican curry powder
• 2 tsps On Everything All-Purpose Blend
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 4 Tbsps Extra virgin olive oil
• 2 Tbsps organic brown sugar
• 1 (14 oz.) can full-fat coconut milk

For the Vegetables

• 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled + cubed
• 2 medium carrots, peeled + chopped
• 1 medium bell pepper, cored and chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsps minced fresh ginger (or 1/2 tsp ground ginger)
• 1-3 scotch bonnet peppers (Adjust for spiciness; habanero works too)
• 2 green onions, lightly crushed or chopped (AKA Scallion)
• 2 fresh thyme sprigs

For Flavor Boosters

• 1 cup organic chicken stock, low-sodium (or chicken bone broth)
• 2 1/2 Tbsps Jamaican curry powder
• 1 Tbsp Jamaican pepper sauce
• 1 tsp ground allspice
• Sea salt + black pepper, to taste

Variations

One of the best things about my Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is how flexible it can be! Feel free to make it your own by trying out these variations:

• Swap the protein: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based version.
• Add more veggies: Get creative by tossing in other vegetables like sweet potatoes, green beans, or spinach.
• Try different spices: Experiment with different spice blends like garam masala or cumin to give it a unique twist.
• Serve differently: Enjoy over rice, quinoa, or even in wraps for a fun change!

How to Make Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating your chicken pieces. Combine them with Jamaican Green Seasoning, curry powder, On Everything All-Purpose Blend, sea salt, smoked paprika, and olive oil in a large bowl. Massaging these spices into the chicken ensures every piece is bursting with flavor. Let it sit while you prep your vegetables—this step makes all the difference!

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, add more olive oil if needed and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant. This step brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your dish. It’s one of those little things that transforms your curry from good to absolutely fantastic!

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Once fragrant, toss in potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers. Stir them around for about five minutes to coat them in those lovely spices. The goal here is to soften them slightly before we get into simmering—trust me; they’ll absorb all that delicious flavor during cooking!

Step 4: Simmer Away!

Now it’s time to add your marinated chicken along with coconut milk and chicken stock into the pot. Bring everything to a gentle simmer—this is where the magic happens! Allow it to cook until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through, about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Final Touches

As you near completion, add in scotch bonnet peppers (whole if you prefer less heat) and thyme sprigs. These will infuse their wonderful aroma into the curry without overpowering it. Let everything simmer together for another few minutes before serving.

Now that you’ve followed these steps, your Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken should be bubbling away beautifully! Serve hot over rice or enjoy as-is—it’s comfort food at its finest!

Pro Tips for Making Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, especially when you’re whipping up a dish as vibrant and flavorful as Jamaican Curry Chicken! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Marinate for maximum flavor: Allow your chicken to marinate in the spices and seasoning for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight if you have the time. This will help the flavors penetrate deeply, giving you a richer taste.

• Adjust the spice level: Not everyone has the same tolerance for heat! Start with one scotch bonnet pepper and taste as you go, adding more if you want extra kick. It’s always easier to add more spice than to tone it down!

• Don’t skip the browning: If using browning sauce, it gives your chicken a beautiful color and adds depth of flavor. If you choose to skip it, just keep an eye on your cooking time to ensure everything cooks evenly.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and herbs will enhance the overall flavor of your curry. Dried spices have their place, but fresh ingredients truly shine in this recipe!

• Let it rest: After cooking, allow your curry chicken to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the juices redistribute throughout the chicken for a juicier bite.

How to Serve Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Serving Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken can be just as exciting as preparing it! With its bold flavors and colorful presentation, this dish deserves to shine on your dinner table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley: A sprinkle of fresh herbs brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.
• Sliced green onions: These add crunch and a mild onion flavor that complements the spices beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Rice and Peas: A classic side that combines rice with kidney beans (or pigeon peas), coconut milk, and spices. It balances well with the spiciness of the curry.
• Fried Plantains: Sweet caramelized plantains offer a delightful contrast to the savory curry. They are easy to prepare and make a perfect accompaniment!
• Steamed Broccoli or Mixed Vegetables: Adding some greens not only brings color to your plate but also provides nutrition without overpowering the main dish.
• Jamaican Festival: These sweet fried dumplings are slightly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them an excellent companion that soaks up all that delicious curry sauce.

With these serving suggestions and tips in hand, you’re ready to impress family and friends with your Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day, but it also simplifies your weeknight dinners.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the curry chicken cool down completely.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of coconut milk or chicken stock if needed.
• You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying this dish!

What makes Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken different?

Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken stands out due to its unique blend of spices, including Jamaican curry powder and fresh ingredients like scotch bonnet peppers, which contribute to its vibrant flavor profile.

Can I make Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken without chicken stock?

Yes! You can substitute chicken stock with water or vegetable broth for a lighter option. However, using stock enhances the depth of flavor in the dish.

How spicy is Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken?

The spice level can be adjusted by varying the number of scotch bonnet peppers used. For a milder version, start with just one pepper and add more according to your taste preference.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on chicken, you can use similar cooking methods for shrimp or firm tofu if you’re looking for a seafood or vegetarian alternative.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish will surely impress. Don’t hesitate to share your experience and any tweaks you made along the way!