Introduction
Jamaican Curry Chicken is one of the most popular dishes in Caribbean cuisine. Its rich flavors, tender chicken, and aromatic spices make it a favorite for many. This dish is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even special gatherings. Unlike other curry recipes, Jamaican curry chicken has a unique taste because of its special seasoning and the use of traditional Jamaican curry powder.
In this guide, we will show you an easy step-by-step method to make authentic Jamaican curry chicken at home. Even if you are new to cooking, you’ll be able to make a delicious, restaurant-style dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients – Jamaican Curry Chicken
To make this tasty Jamaican Curry Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs (900g) chicken pieces (drumsticks or thighs work best)
- 2 tablespoons Jamaican curry powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 scallions (spring onions), chopped
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional for heat)
- Juice of 1 lime
For Cooking:
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 cups coconut milk
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Step by Step Process – Jamaican Curry Chicken
Making Jamaican Curry Chicken may sound complex, but it is quite simple if you follow these steps.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Wash the chicken pieces thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken with Jamaican curry powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, minced garlic, ginger, scallions, Scotch bonnet pepper, and lime juice.
- Mix well, ensuring every piece of chicken is coated with the spices.
- Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. For best results, marinate for 2–3 hours or overnight in the fridge.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the marinated chicken pieces and brown them on all sides. This should take about 5–7 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté until they become soft and fragrant.
- Add the cubed potatoes and chopped carrots. Stir for a couple of minutes to mix well with the onions and peppers.
Step 4: Add Liquids and Chicken
- Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth.
- Return the browned chicken to the pot. Make sure the chicken is mostly covered with the liquid.
- Sprinkle in the dried thyme and give it a gentle stir.
Step 5: Simmer the Curry
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer for 35–45 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- The chicken should be tender, and the vegetables should be fully cooked.
Step 6: Final Touches
- Taste the curry and adjust the salt or pepper if needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your authentic Jamaican curry chicken hot with steamed rice, roti, or bread. Enjoy the rich flavors of this classic Caribbean dish!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 700 mg |
| Vitamin A | 60% DV |
| Vitamin C | 40% DV |
| Calcium | 6% DV |
| Iron | 15% DV |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of drumsticks or thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may cook faster and can dry out. Keep an eye on cooking time and avoid overcooking.
Q2: What if I don’t have Scotch bonnet peppers?
You can use habanero or any hot chili pepper for heat. If you prefer mild curry, you can skip it entirely.
Q3: Can I make this curry in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the chicken first, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
Q4: Can I freeze Jamaican Curry Chicken?
Absolutely. Cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Q5: What can I serve with Jamaican Curry Chicken?
Traditionally, it’s served with white rice, brown rice, roti, or boiled green bananas. Some people also enjoy it with fried plantains.
Final Thoughts
Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is a dish full of flavor, spice, and Caribbean tradition. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate this iconic dish right in your kitchen. The combination of curry powder, coconut milk, and fresh vegetables makes it comforting, hearty, and satisfying.
Whether you are cooking for your family, friends, or just treating yourself, this Jamaican Curry Chicken recipe is sure to impress. Remember, cooking is about experimenting and enjoying the process, so feel free to adjust the spices to match your taste.
Once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again—it’s that good! So grab your pot, spices, and chicken, and bring a little taste of Jamaica into your home today.
