Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken
Table of Contents
The fragrant aroma of spices filling the air, the gentle sizzle of chicken simmering on the stove — these are the moments that transport me back to my childhood kitchen. My mother would often prepare her signature Jamaican Curry Chicken, a dish that was as comforting as it was delicious. It wasn’t just the taste that made it special; it was the way it brought our family together, turning an ordinary day into something truly memorable. This dish, with its rich, savory notes and a hint of spice, is like a warm hug on a plate — perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring on a cozy evening at home.
What makes this recipe truly shine is its ease and accessibility, even for a beginner. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to bring a taste of the Caribbean to your table. The ingredients are straightforward, and the steps are simple, ensuring you can create a dish that bursts with authentic flavors without any fuss. Plus, the versatility of this curry means you can tailor the heat to suit your palate, making it a perfect fit for any family gathering or quiet dinner at home. The creamy coconut base balances the spices beautifully, offering a comforting, rich texture that delights with every bite.
As you cozy up in your kitchen, you’ll discover the joy of creating something delicious from scratch, just like my mother did. And as you sit down to enjoy your meal, you’ll feel that same sense of warmth and connection that comes from sharing a homemade dish with those you love.
Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table
This Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings a taste of Jamaica to your home. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your table:
Authentic Flavors: Experience the rich, bold spices of Jamaican cuisine, with a perfectly balanced blend of curry powder, allspice, and scotch bonnet peppers. The unique combination of spices not only brings warmth and depth to the dish but also introduces a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate, embodying the vibrant essence of Jamaican cooking.
Versatile Heat: Customize the level of spice to suit your preference, whether you enjoy a mild warmth or a fiery kick. For those who appreciate a milder dish, simply reduce the number of scotch bonnet peppers or remove the seeds to tone down the heat. Conversely, for spice lovers, leaving the seeds in or adding a touch more pepper sauce can elevate the dish to a new level of heat, providing a thrilling culinary experience.
Nostalgic Comfort: This dish embodies the cozy, comforting feel of homemade meals, perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. The aromas wafting from the kitchen as the curry simmers are enough to draw loved ones together, creating a sense of community and shared experience that is truly heartwarming.
Simple Preparation: With easy-to-follow steps and readily available ingredients, this recipe is accessible to cooks of all skill levels. The straightforward process ensures that even novice cooks can achieve a restaurant-quality dish at home, building confidence in the kitchen while creating something truly special.
Rich, Creamy Texture: The combination of coconut milk and tender chicken creates a luxurious sauce that coats every bite with flavor. This creamy base not only enhances the dish’s richness but also harmonizes with the spices, creating a beautifully balanced flavor profile that is both indulgent and satisfying.
Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
To whip up this delightful dish, you won’t need much — just a few trusty kitchen tools, much like the ones my grandma used when teaching me the joy of homemade meals.
Large Bowl: Essential for marinating the chicken and ensuring it absorbs all the spices. A sturdy glass or stainless steel bowl works best, as it won’t absorb odors and is easy to clean.
Deep Skillet or Pot: Perfect for browning the chicken and simmering the curry to perfection. A heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven ensures even heat distribution, preventing the dish from scorching and allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Handy for stirring ingredients and ensuring everything cooks evenly. A wooden spoon is gentle on your cookware and makes it easy to stir the curry without scratching the surface.
Measuring Spoons and Cups: For precise measurements of spices and other ingredients. Accurate measurements are key to maintaining the balance of flavors, especially when working with potent spices.
Sharp Knife: To chop and prepare vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers. A well-maintained knife not only speeds up prep time but also ensures clean cuts, helping the vegetables cook evenly.
How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
Ingredients
CHICKEN:
- 3-4 lbs. organic chicken, skin removed (Drumsticks + Thigh pieces work great!)
- 1-2 Tbsps browning, optional
- 2-3 Tbsps Jamaican Green Seasoning
- 2 Tbsps Jamaican curry powder
- 2 tsps On Everything All-Purpose Blend
- 1 teaspoon sea salt ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
SPICY JAMAICAN CURRY SAUCE:
- 4 Tbsps Extra virgin olive oil
- 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
- 1-3 scotch bonnet peppers
- 2 green onions, lightly crushed or chopped
- 2 fresh thyme sprigs
- 1 cup organic chicken stock, low-sodium
- 2 ½ Tbsps Jamaican curry powder
- 1 tablespoon Jamaican pepper sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice sea salt + black pepper, to taste
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine chicken with browning, Green Seasoning, salt, All-Purpose Blend, smoked paprika, and curry powder. Mix until chicken is fully coated. Marinate in a sealed bag in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours. Marinating overnight will deepen the flavors, making each bite more flavorful and succulent.
Heat 2 Tbsps of olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add brown sugar and stir until it dissolves. Add marinated chicken, searing for 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside. This step adds a delightful caramelized layer to the chicken, enhancing its taste and texture.
Add another 2 Tbsps olive oil to the same skillet. Once hot, add curry powder and stir until it darkens and becomes fragrant. This blooming of the spices in oil releases their essential oils, intensifying the curry’s flavor profile.
Add minced garlic, ginger, peppers, green onions, carrots, and bell peppers. Sauté until fragrant. This aromatic base sets the stage for the curry, building layers of flavor that complement the spice.
Stir in allspice, salt, and black pepper. Pour in coconut milk, chicken stock, and pepper sauce. Boil briefly, then add chicken, potatoes, scallions, and thyme. Simmer for 20-25 minutes. The slow simmer allows the chicken to become tender and the potatoes to absorb the curry’s rich flavors.
Serve with your favorite side, garnished with scallions or red pepper flakes. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lime can add a vibrant finishing touch.
Difficulty: Moderate • Cuisine: Jamaican • Preparation Time: 3 hours (marinating) • Cooking Time: 45 minutes • Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes • Calories: 350 per serving • Servings: 6-8
Note: For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight and adjust the spice level by varying the number of scotch bonnet peppers. Always handle these peppers with care, using gloves if possible, as they are extremely potent.
Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients
This Jamaican Curry Chicken not only promises delightful flavors but also comes with some surprising benefits:
Coconut Milk: Adds creaminess while providing healthy fats that are good for heart health. It also acts as a great dairy-free alternative, making the dish suitable for those with lactose intolerance.
Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to aid digestion. This root adds a zesty, warming flavor that complements the curry’s spice.
Scotch Bonnet Peppers: Rich in vitamins A and C, boosting immunity and adding a spicy kick. These peppers are a staple in Caribbean cuisine, known for their fruity heat.
Thyme: Offers antibacterial properties and a subtle earthy flavor. Thyme is often used in traditional Jamaican dishes for its aromatic qualities.
Chicken: A great source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair. Using organic chicken ensures a cleaner taste and better texture.
Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish
This curry dish is a versatile companion to various sides, making it perfect for any occasion:
Steamed Rice: The perfect neutral base that soaks up the rich curry sauce beautifully. Jasmine or Basmati rice are particularly aromatic choices that complement the curry’s flavors.
Roasted Vegetables: Add a touch of healthy crunch and enhance the vibrant flavors. Roasting vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts caramelizes their natural sugars, adding depth to the meal.
Plain Naan: Ideal for scooping up the creamy sauce and enjoying every last bit. Warm naan or flatbread can be brushed with a little melted butter and garlic for extra flavor.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that balances the spiciness with cool, crisp flavors. A simple salad with sliced cucumbers, red onion, and a splash of lime juice is invigorating and pairs well with the curry’s heat.
Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way
To savor the joy of homemade cooking even after the first serving, here are some tips:
Store any leftover curry chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of coconut milk or chicken stock to maintain its creamy texture. You can even transform the leftovers into a delicious curry wrap by adding fresh greens and a dollop of yogurt for a quick and satisfying lunch. Alternatively, serve it over a bed of fresh greens for a hearty salad, or use it as a filling for savory pastries.
Cooking brings a sense of warmth and togetherness, a connection to our roots and the people we love. With this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken, I hope you find that same comfort and joy in your kitchen. Whether you’re sharing it with family, friends, or savoring a quiet meal solo, may every bite be a reminder of the love and tradition that flavor every dish we create.
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Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, add your freshly cleaned + rinsed chicken along with browning, Green Seasoning, salt, All-Purpose Blend, smoked paprika, and curry powder, mixing everything together until chicken is fully coated. Add coated chicken to a securely sealed ziplock bag and place in the refrigerator for 3 hours (minimum). NOTE: Best if marinaded overnight. When ready to use, let chicken sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking.
- In a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat, add 2 Tbsps of olive oil and once fully heated, add the brown sugar. Stir the brown sugar in oil and let it sit until it becomes wet like in texture in semi-dissolves. Now, add in the marinated chicken and cook on each side until seared, about 3-4 minutes each side. Remove from heat and set aside on a plate.
- If using authentic Jamaican curry powder, it’s super important to first ‘burn’ your powder. In the same deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat, add another 2 Tbsps olive oil and once fully heated, add curry powder. Stir curry powder in oil and let it sit until it becomes a dark brown and becomes fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, ginger, scotch bonnet peppers, green onions, carrots, and bell peppers, sautéing until fragrant and golden. Add the allspice, salt, and black pepper, stirring until combined. Pour in the coconut milk, chicken stock/broth, and pepper sauce, stirring until combined. Let the mixture boil for a minute or so before adding the chicken, cubed potatoes, crushed scallion (aka green onions), and thyme sprigs, stirring to incorporate. Reduce the heat to simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until sauce thickens and the chicken is cooked through and tender, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat once done.
- To serve, enjoy the curry chicken with your favorite side (i.e. rice, veggies, etc.). Garnish with a bit of chopped scallion and/or sprinkles of red pepper flakes, if desired. Bon Appétit!
