Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Jamaica right to your kitchen, my Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is just what you need! This recipe is packed with spices that create a mouthwatering aroma and taste that will make your heart sing. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a comforting meal on a busy weeknight, this curry chicken is sure to become a new favorite.

What makes this dish truly special is the blend of spices and the creamy coconut milk that creates a sauce so good you’ll want to spoon it over everything! It’s not just delicious; it’s also dairy-free and can easily be made gluten-free, making it perfect for various dietary needs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with flavor: The combination of Jamaican spices and fresh ingredients creates a taste sensation that’s both exciting and comforting.
• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this delightful meal even on your busiest days.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the rich flavors, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.
• Make-ahead convenience: This curry tastes even better the next day, so it’s perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
• Customizable heat: Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer peppers, catering to everyone’s taste preferences!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delicious Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken, you’ll be using simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

For the 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 and chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsps minced fresh ginger (You can substitute 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
• 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

This Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use boneless turkey or beef if you prefer something different.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Go vegetarian: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a hearty plant-based version.
• Change up the spice: Use different types of peppers like jalapeños or Anaheim for milder heat.

How to Make Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating your chicken pieces in Jamaican Green Seasoning, curry powder, sea salt, and On Everything All-Purpose Blend. This step infuses the chicken with all those wonderful flavors before cooking. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes if you have time—this makes all the difference!

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, fresh ginger, and chopped bell pepper. Sauté until fragrant and slightly softened. This step builds a flavor base that’s essential for your curry.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pot, browning them on all sides. Browning adds depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish. If you’re using browning sauce, now is the time to incorporate it!

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Pour in the coconut milk and chicken stock, then add brown sugar, smoked paprika, allspice, and any additional seasonings you’d like. Stir well to combine everything into a delightful sauce that will cling beautifully to your chicken.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

Toss in cubed potatoes, chopped carrots, scotch bonnet peppers (or your chosen spice), thyme sprigs, salt, and black pepper. These veggies not only add texture but also soak up all those amazing flavors as they cook.

Step 6: Simmer Until Tender

Bring everything to a gentle simmer and cover. Cook for about 40 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning as needed. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavors become!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Once cooked through, remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken with rice or flatbread for a complete meal! Enjoy every bite as you savor this taste of Jamaica in your home!

Pro Tips for Making Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

To make your Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken even more delicious, here are some helpful tips!

• Marinate the chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the Jamaican green seasoning and spices for at least a few hours (or overnight) enhances the flavor, making every bite a burst of deliciousness.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and thyme can greatly elevate the dish’s aroma and taste. Quality ingredients make all the difference in achieving that authentic Caribbean flavor.

• Adjust spice levels: Start with one scotch bonnet pepper if you’re unsure about heat levels. You can always add more later, but it’s tough to tone it down once it’s too spicy!

• Simmer slowly: Cooking the curry on low heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully. A slow simmer will yield tender chicken and a rich sauce that clings to each piece.

• Serve with coconut milk: If you enjoy creaminess, consider drizzling extra coconut milk over the finished dish just before serving. It adds richness and balances out spiciness.

How to Serve Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Serving your Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is just as important as cooking it! Here are some ideas to make your meal visually appealing and tasty.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro: This herb adds a refreshing touch that complements the spice of the curry.
• Sliced lime: A wedge of lime on the side can brighten up each bite with a zesty kick.

Side Dishes

• Rice and peas: This classic Caribbean side of rice cooked with kidney beans and coconut milk complements the rich flavors of curry perfectly.
• Fried plantains: Sweet fried plantains provide a delicious contrast to the savory curry, balancing out flavors beautifully.
• Coleslaw: A fresh coleslaw with crunchy cabbage and carrots gives a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the warm spices.
• Steamed vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrients, making for a well-rounded meal.

Enjoy your culinary journey to Jamaica with this delightful dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is not just a delightful dish to savor; it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the curry chicken 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 fully before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label and date the containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken.

Can I use skin-on chicken for Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken?

Yes, you can use skin-on chicken if you prefer a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that it may add extra fat to the dish.

What makes Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken special?

The unique blend of spices such as Jamaican curry powder and Scotch bonnet peppers gives this dish its iconic flavor profile. It’s a comforting meal that showcases the vibrant culinary culture of Jamaica.

Is Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken spicy?

The spiciness level depends on how many Scotch bonnet peppers you add. Adjust according to your preference for heat!

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy or have on hand. Bell peppers, peas, and zucchini can all be great additions.

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken a try! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and love reminiscent of traditional Jamaican cooking. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it solo, this dish is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction. Enjoy every flavorful bite!