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Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 148 reviews

Experience the bold and comforting flavors of Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken, a rich and spicy dish featuring tender chicken thighs and drumsticks simmered in a fragrant curry sauce made with Jamaican curry powder, coconut milk, and a medley of fresh vegetables and spices. This hearty meal is perfect for those craving a taste of Caribbean home cooking.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Marinade

  • 3–4 lbs chicken (drumsticks + thighs, skin removed)
  • 1–2 tbsp browning (optional)
  • 2–3 tbsp Jamaican Green Seasoning (or all-purpose seasoning)
  • 2 tbsp Jamaican curry powder
  • 2 tsp On Everything All-Purpose Blend
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika

Cooking Ingredients

  • 4 tbsp olive oil (divided)
  • 2 tbsp 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, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tsp fresh ginger, minced (or ½ tsp ground ginger)
  • 1–3 scotch bonnet peppers, chopped or whole (adjust spice)
  • 2 green onions (scallions), lightly crushed or chopped
  • 2 fresh thyme sprigs
  • 1 cup chicken stock (low-sodium or bone broth)
  • 2 ½ tbsp Jamaican curry powder
  • 1 tbsp Jamaican pepper sauce (or hot sauce)
  • 1 tsp ground allspice
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with browning (if using), Jamaican green seasoning, 2 tbsp curry powder, all-purpose blend, sea salt, and smoked paprika. Mix well to fully coat each piece. Transfer the chicken to a ziplock bag and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight for best flavor. Before cooking, let the chicken sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes.
  2. Brown the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add brown sugar and allow it to dissolve slightly into the oil, creating a caramelized base. Place the marinated chicken pieces in the skillet and sear them for 3–4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove the browned chicken and set aside.
  3. Burn the Curry Powder: Using the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle in 2 ½ tablespoons of Jamaican curry powder and cook it over medium heat for about 2–3 minutes until it darkens and becomes fragrant. This technique intensifies the flavor and enriches the color of the curry sauce.
  4. Make the Curry Sauce: Add the minced garlic, ginger, scotch bonnet peppers, green onions, chopped carrots, and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté the vegetables until fragrant and slightly softened. Stir in ground allspice, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the full-fat coconut milk, chicken stock, and Jamaican pepper sauce, bringing the mixture to a brief boil. Return the browned chicken to the skillet along with the cubed potatoes and thyme sprigs. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens.
  5. Serve: Serve the curry chicken hot alongside steamed rice, vegetables, or your preferred side dish. Garnish with additional chopped scallions or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired for extra heat and color.

Notes

  • Removing the chicken skin reduces fat content, making the dish slightly lighter.
  • Adjust the number of scotch bonnet peppers to control the spice level according to your preference.
  • Using browning is optional but adds a deeper color and slightly caramelized flavor.
  • Marinating overnight improves flavor penetration and tenderness.
  • If you cannot find Jamaican green seasoning, all-purpose seasoning or a fresh herb mix can be substituted.
  • This dish pairs well with white rice, steamed vegetables, or fried plantains.
  • Be cautious when handling scotch bonnet peppers; wearing gloves is recommended.

Keywords: Jamaican curry chicken, Caribbean chicken curry, spicy chicken stew, authentic Jamaican recipe, coconut milk curry, comfort food

Find it online: https://platedbyemma.com/authentic-jamaican-curry-chicken-recipe/