Description
Bring the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean to your table with this Jamaican Curry Chicken recipe. Tender, juicy chicken is simmered in a rich, aromatic curry sauce infused with traditional spices, coconut milk, and Scotch bonnet peppers. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is a flavorful island classic that everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 3–4 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in)
- 1–2 tbsp browning sauce (optional)
- 2–3 tbsp Jamaican green seasoning
- 2 tbsp Jamaican curry powder
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
For the Curry Sauce:
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp organic brown sugar
- 1 (14 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
- 2 medium potatoes, cubed
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1–3 Scotch bonnet peppers (adjust for spice level)
- 2 scallions, lightly crushed
- 2 sprigs thyme
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken stock
- 2½ tbsp Jamaican curry powder
- 1 tbsp Jamaican pepper sauce
- 1 tsp ground allspice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
- Combine chicken with browning sauce, green seasoning, curry powder, salt, and smoked paprika in a large bowl.
- Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
2. Brown the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the brown sugar and stir until it melts into a syrup.
- Add the marinated chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. Toast the Curry Powder
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining olive oil.
- Add the curry powder and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until aromatic.
4. Build the Curry Sauce
- Add garlic, ginger, Scotch bonnet peppers, carrots, and bell pepper to the skillet.
- Sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in allspice, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour in the coconut milk, chicken stock, and pepper sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
5. Simmer the Chicken
- Return the chicken to the skillet. Add the potatoes, scallions, and thyme sprigs.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the sauce thickens.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish with additional scallions or fresh herbs.
- Serve hot with steamed rice, roti, or fried plantains for a complete meal.
Notes
- Vegan Jamaican Curry: Replace chicken with tofu, chickpeas, or jackfruit.
- Extra Creamy Curry: Add an additional half cup of coconut milk for a richer sauce.
- Jamaican Curry Goat: Swap chicken for goat meat for a traditional twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Jamaican