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Jamaican Curry Chicken: A Flavorful Island Classic


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  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6

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:

  • 34 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in)
  • 12 tbsp browning sauce (optional)
  • 23 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
  • 13 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