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Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful Caribbean dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich curry sauce made with Jamaican curry powder, Scotch bonnet peppers, fresh herbs, and creamy coconut milk. This comforting meal delivers bold island spices and a hearty texture, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks – about 3-4 pounds

Spices and Herbs

  • Jamaican curry powder – 2 tablespoons, divided
  • Fresh thyme – 2 sprigs
  • Salt – 1 ½ teaspoons, to taste
  • Black pepper – 1 teaspoon, to taste

Aromatics

  • Onions – 1 large, chopped
  • Scallions (green onions) – 3 stalks, chopped
  • Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
  • Fresh ginger – 1 tablespoon, minced

Other Ingredients

  • Vegetable oil – 3 tablespoons
  • Coconut milk – 1 can (13.5 oz)
  • Potatoes – 2 medium, peeled and chopped
  • Scotch bonnet pepper – 1 whole (optional, adjust to heat preference)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Clean the chicken pieces thoroughly. Season them generously with salt, pepper, and half of the Jamaican curry powder. Let the chicken sit for a few minutes to allow the spices to penetrate deeply.
  2. Brown the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides until they develop a golden crust, locking in the juices. Remove and set aside.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add chopped onions, scallions, minced garlic, ginger, fresh thyme, and the remaining curry powder. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and the spices are well activated.
  4. Simmer with Coconut Milk: Return the browned chicken to the pot. Add the chopped potatoes, Scotch bonnet pepper, and pour in the coconut milk. Stir gently and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook on low heat for 30 to 40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
  5. Final Seasoning and Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the Scotch bonnet pepper if preferred. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs or chopped scallions before serving. Enjoy hot with your choice of sides.

Notes

  • Use fresh Jamaican curry powder for the best flavor impact.
  • Marinate chicken for at least an hour if possible to deepen flavor.
  • Take your time browning the chicken for a richer taste and texture.
  • Adjust Scotch bonnet pepper quantity to control heat level.
  • Simmer the curry gently on low heat for tender, juicy chicken and well-infused flavors.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Jamaican
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

Keywords: Jamaican curry chicken, authentic Caribbean chicken curry, spicy chicken curry, Jamaican cuisine, island curry recipe, coconut milk curry