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 recipe you need! This cherished dish is not only a family favorite but also an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With its vibrant spices and tender chicken simmered to perfection, it’s sure to bring smiles around the dinner table. Plus, this recipe is dairy-free and offers a gluten-free option, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

Let me take you on a culinary journey right to Jamaica with just one taste of this delightful curry!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Packed with Flavor: The blend of Jamaican spices creates an explosion of taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
  • Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about an hour!
  • Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages—it’s spicy but can be adjusted to suit little ones too.
  • Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! You can cook it ahead of time and reheat for a quick weeknight dinner.
  • Nostalgic Comfort Food: Enjoying this dish is like wrapping yourself in a warm hug; it’s pure comfort on a plate.
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Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! You’ll find that they are simple and wholesome, bringing together the rich flavors of Jamaica. Gather these goodies before we dive into the cooking!

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

For the Sauce

  • 2 Tbsps organic brown sugar
  • 1 (14 oz.) can full-fat coconut milk
  • 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled + cubed
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled + chopped
  • 1 medium bell pepper, cored removed + chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tsps minced fresh ginger (You can sub with 1/2 tsp ground ginger)
  • 1-3 scotch bonnet peppers (Adjust to your level of spiciness; you can also use habanero peppers)
  • 2 green onions, lightly crushed or chopped (AKA Scallion)
  • 2 fresh thyme sprigs

For Flavor Enhancements

  • 1 cup organic chicken stock, low-sodium (You can also use 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 parts about this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have at home!

  • Swap the protein: Use tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken for a vegetarian version that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
  • Add more veggies: Toss in your favorite seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition.
  • Change the heat level: If scotch bonnet peppers are too spicy for your taste, try milder peppers or simply adjust the quantity.
  • Coconut milk alternatives: If you’re looking for something lighter, consider using light coconut milk or even unsweetened almond milk.

How to Make Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating your chicken pieces with Jamaican Green Seasoning and some salt. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to soak into the meat. Let it sit while you prepare other ingredients.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and brown your marinated chicken pieces on all sides. Searing helps develop flavor through caramelization and gives your dish depth.

Step 3: Create Your Sauce

Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot. In the same pot, add garlic, ginger, bell pepper, and scotch bonnet peppers. Sauté until fragrant—it should smell amazing! Then add in your curry powder along with smoked paprika and stir well.

Step 4: Simmer It All Together

Return the chicken to your pot along with coconut milk and chicken stock. Bring everything to a gentle simmer before adding potatoes and carrots. This slow cooking allows all those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

Cover your pot and let it cook for about 40 minutes on low heat until everything is tender. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

And there you have it—your very own Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken! Serve it hot over rice or with some warm bread for dipping. Enjoy every bite of this flavorful journey!

Pro Tips for Making Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Making Jamaican Curry Chicken is a delightful experience, and these tips will help elevate your dish to new heights!

  • Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate in the spices and green seasoning for at least 30 minutes (or ideally overnight). This enhances the flavor profile and ensures every bite is packed with deliciousness.

  • Adjust Spiciness: If you’re unsure about the heat level, start with one scotch bonnet pepper and taste as you go. You can always add more later! This way, you tailor the spiciness to your preference.

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and herbs make a world of difference in flavor. Opting for fresh over dried will give your curry a vibrant taste that truly shines through.

  • Simmer Slowly: Don’t rush the simmering process. Allowing the chicken to cook slowly in the coconut milk helps it become tender and absorbs all those aromatic flavors. Patience pays off!

  • Taste as You Cook: Keep tasting throughout the cooking process. This way, you can adjust seasoning or sweetness until it’s just right for your palate. It’s all about personalizing this dish to suit your style!

How to Serve Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Presenting your Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is just as important as making it! Here are some delightful ways to serve this flavorful dish.

Garnishes

  • Fresh cilantro or parsley: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro or parsley adds a burst of color and freshness that balances out the richness of the curry.
  • Lime wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their portions, enhancing flavors with a zesty touch.

Side Dishes

  • Rice and Peas: A classic Caribbean accompaniment made with rice cooked in coconut milk and seasoned with kidney beans, thyme, and scallions. The creaminess complements the spicy chicken perfectly.

  • Fried Plantains: Sweet, caramelized plantains provide a delightful contrast to the savory curry. Their natural sweetness balances out any heat from the scotch bonnet peppers.

  • Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans add a healthy crunch that pairs wonderfully with rich curries, keeping your plate colorful and nutritious.

  • Coconut Rice: Fluffy rice cooked in coconut milk with a hint of salt creates a creamy base that soaks up all the delicious sauce from your curry chicken.

Enjoy sharing this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken recipe with friends and family—it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!

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Make Ahead and Storage

This Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly to maintain its delightful flavors.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

  • Cool the dish entirely before freezing.
  • Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
  • Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
  • Heat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
  • Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish, cover, and reheat in 1-minute intervals until warm.

FAQs

Have questions about making Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken? Here are some answers!

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes! While thighs add extra flavor and tenderness, chicken breast can also work well. Just be careful not to overcook it for the best texture.

How spicy is Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken?

The spiciness depends on the number of scotch bonnet peppers you use. Start with one pepper if you’re sensitive to heat and adjust based on your preference.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a delicious vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken as much as I do! It’s a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and rich flavors right to your table. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience. Happy cooking!

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Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

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Experience vibrant flavors with Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken! This easy recipe will bring a taste of Jamaica to your home—give it a try today!

  • Author: Andrea
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Jamaican

Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 lbs organic chicken (skin removed)
  • 23 Tbsps Jamaican Green Seasoning
  • 2 Tbsps Jamaican curry powder
  • 1 (14 oz.) can full-fat coconut milk
  • 2 medium russet potatoes, cubed
  • 2 medium carrots, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 13 scotch bonnet peppers (adjust for spiciness)
  • 4 Tbsps Extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tsps minced fresh ginger
  • 2 medium bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 green onions, lightly crushed or chopped
  • 2 fresh thyme sprigs
  • 1 cup organic chicken stock, low-sodium
  • 2 1/2 Tbsps Jamaican curry powder
  • 1 Tbsp Jamaican pepper sauce
  • 1 tsp ground allspice
  • sea salt + black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Marinate chicken pieces with Jamaican Green Seasoning and salt; let sit while preparing other ingredients.
  2. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and brown the marinated chicken on all sides.
  3. Remove chicken; in the same pot, sauté garlic, ginger, bell pepper, and scotch bonnet peppers until fragrant.
  4. Stir in curry powder and smoked paprika; return chicken to the pot along with coconut milk and chicken stock.
  5. Bring to a simmer before adding potatoes and carrots; cover and cook on low heat for about 40 minutes until tender.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

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