Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and warmth, look no further than my Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken. This recipe is a true gem in my kitchen, bringing the vibrant spices of Jamaica right to your dining table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this curry chicken is sure to impress everyone around the table. It’s comforting, delicious, and just the right amount of spicy—perfect for those who love a little kick in their meals!

This dish holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of sunny days spent with family and friends, enjoying great food and laughter. The combination of tender chicken simmered in a rich coconut sauce with fresh vegetables creates an experience that’s simply unforgettable. Plus, it’s completely dairy-free and has a gluten-free option, making it accessible for most diets!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for any night of the week.
• Family-Friendly: With its mild yet flavorful profile, even the kids will enjoy this comforting meal.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this dish ahead of time and reheat it for an easy dinner option.
• Packed with Flavor: The aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk create a rich sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to adapt the veggies or spice levels to suit your taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything too fancy for this recipe—just simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need to make your Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken:

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

For the Vegetables

• 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 sub with 1/2 tsp ground ginger)

For the Spice Lovers

• 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

To Finish

• 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 is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the Protein: Try using tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist that still packs a flavorful punch.
• Change Up the Veggies: Add in your favorite seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer milder flavors, reduce or omit the scotch bonnet peppers and add more sweet bell peppers instead!
• Add Some Fruits: Toss in some diced mango or pineapple during cooking for a sweet contrast to the savory spices.

How to Make Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating your chicken pieces with Jamaican Green Seasoning and curry powder. This step is crucial as it infuses every bite with delicious flavors. Let it sit while you prepare your other ingredients.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

In a large pot over medium-high heat, warm your olive oil. Add in the marinated chicken pieces and sear them until golden brown on all sides. Browning adds depth of flavor to your curry!

Step 3: Build Your Sauce

Once your chicken is browned, remove it from the pot temporarily. In the same pot, add garlic, ginger, bell pepper, and scotch bonnet peppers. Sauté until fragrant—this step will release all those wonderful aromas into your kitchen.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the chicken to the pot along with potatoes, carrots, coconut milk, chicken stock, and remaining spices. Stir everything together; this creates a rich sauce that envelops each piece of chicken.

Step 5: Simmer Away!

Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 30 minutes until everything is tender and flavors meld beautifully. The longer you let it simmer, the more intense those flavors become!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Once done cooking, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot over rice or with some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce! Enjoy every bite of this warm hug-in-a-bowl!

Pro Tips for Making Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Cooking this dish is a delightful adventure, and with a few tips, you can make it even more authentic and delicious!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices not only enhance the flavor but also give the dish a vibrant aroma that frozen or dried alternatives cannot match.

• Marinate your chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the green seasoning and curry powder for at least an hour (or overnight) will deepen the flavors and make the chicken incredibly tender.

• Adjust spice levels: If you’re unsure about heat, begin with fewer scotch bonnet peppers and taste as you go. You can always add more, but it’s hard to tone down the spice once it’s in!

• Simmer slowly: Cooking on low heat allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully. Patience is key to achieving that rich, complex taste!

• Experiment with vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like sweet potatoes or chickpeas for added texture and nutrition. Plus, they soak up all that delicious curry flavor!

How to Serve Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Presenting your Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken can elevate your meal into a festive experience! Here are some delightful ideas on how to serve this flavorful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness that balances the spices in the curry.
• Sliced lime: A squeeze of lime juice just before serving brightens up the dish and adds a refreshing tang.

Side Dishes

• Rice and Peas: This classic Caribbean side dish made with coconut milk and kidney beans perfectly complements the curry’s rich flavors.
• Fried Plantains: Sweet, caramelized fried plantains provide a lovely contrast to the savory chicken.
• Coleslaw: A light, crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that pairs wonderfully with the hearty curry.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and additional nutrients while complementing the spices in your dish.

Enjoy sharing this incredible meal with family or friends, or savor it as a comforting solo dinner. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it reheat beautifully, but the flavors also deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious. Here’s how to store and manage your tasty creation.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the curry chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Label the container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• For longer storage, portion the curry into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months; label with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water if needed.
• Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe.

What makes Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken so special?

Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken stands out due to its unique blend of spices and ingredients that create a rich, flavorful dish. The combination of Jamaican curry powder, fresh herbs, and coconut milk gives it a distinctive taste that is both comforting and exciting!

Can I make Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken without chicken stock?

Yes! You can substitute chicken stock with vegetable broth or water. Just remember that using broth enhances the flavor of the dish significantly, so opt for a flavorful alternative for the best results.

How spicy is Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. The inclusion of scotch bonnet peppers provides significant heat, but you can reduce or omit them entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?

Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on chicken, you can apply the same method using turkey or even chickpeas for a plant-based variation. Adjust cooking times accordingly!

What side dishes go well with Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice (such as coconut rice), quinoa, or even flatbreads. A fresh salad or steamed vegetables on the side complements it nicely too!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken as much as I do! It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience filled with vibrant flavors and warmth reminiscent of sunny Jamaica. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring it solo, this dish is bound to bring joy to your dining table. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to indulge in every spicy bite!