If you have ever had Jamaican food, you know it’s all about flavor + spice! Embrace the heat with my Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken. This dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or simply when you crave a taste of the Caribbean. The combination of fragrant spices and tender chicken simmered in a rich sauce makes this recipe a standout. Plus, it offers a comforting touch that evokes fond memories for many Jamaicans. It’s also completely dairy-free and has a gluten-free option!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Experience: The blend of spices and coconut milk creates a rich, aromatic flavor that will delight your taste buds.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect for lunch or dinner, this dish pairs well with rice, roti, or even on its own.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Comfort Food Appeal: Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken brings warmth and nostalgia to your dining table.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and nutrients from vegetables, this dish is as wholesome as it is tasty.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken, having the right tools can streamline your cooking process. Here are some essentials:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the chicken and sauce evenly without splattering.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop ingredients while keeping your kitchen tidy.
- Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts through chicken and vegetables, making prep faster and safer.
Ingredients
- 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
- 4 Tbsps Extra virgin olive oil
- 2 Tbsps organic 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, cored removed + chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsps minced fresh ginger (You can sub with 1/2 tsp ground ginger)
- 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
- 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
How to Make Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by marinating your chicken for optimal flavor:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with Jamaican Green Seasoning, Jamaican curry powder, sea salt, smoked paprika, browning (if using), and On Everything All-Purpose Blend.
2. Mix well to ensure each piece is coated.
3. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes; overnight is even better!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Now it’s time to cook:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the marinated chicken pieces into the pot in batches if necessary. Sauté until browned on all sides.
Step 3: Add Aromatics and Vegetables
Enhance the flavors:
1. Stir in minced garlic and ginger; sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add chopped bell pepper, carrots, potatoes, scotch bonnet peppers, thyme sprigs, and brown sugar.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Make it rich and creamy:
1. Pour in the coconut milk and chicken stock.
2. Add additional Jamaican curry powder and ground allspice for depth of flavor.
Step 5: Simmer
Let everything meld together:
1. Bring the mixture to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and let simmer for about 40 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
Step 6: Serve
Finish up:
1. Taste for seasoning and adjust with sea salt or black pepper if needed.
2. Serve hot alongside rice or your preferred side dishes.
Enjoy your homemade Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken, bursting with flavors that take you straight to Jamaica!
How to Serve Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken
Serving Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is all about enhancing its rich flavors and creating a delightful dining experience. Here are some suggestions to enjoy this dish to its fullest.
With Rice and Peas
- Pair your curry chicken with traditional rice and peas for a complete meal. The coconut milk in the rice complements the spices beautifully.
On a Bed of Quinoa
- For a healthier twist, serve the curry over cooked quinoa. This adds a nutty flavor and boosts the dish’s protein content.
Accompanied by Fried Plantains
- Sweet fried plantains make an excellent side that balances the heat of the curry. They add a deliciously sweet contrast to the savory chicken.
With Fresh Salad
- A light salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette can refresh your palate between bites of spicy curry.
In Tacos
- For a fun twist, use the curry chicken as a filling for soft tacos. Top with avocado and salsa for an exciting fusion dish.
Served with Dumplings
- Jamaican-style dumplings are perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce. They make for a hearty accompaniment to your meal.
How to Perfect Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken
To achieve perfectly cooked Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken, consider these helpful tips:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices elevate the flavor profile of your curry significantly. Always opt for fresh garlic, ginger, and thyme when possible.
Marinate Overnight: Allowing the chicken to marinate in Jamaican green seasoning and spices overnight intensifies the flavors. This step is essential for authentic taste.
Adjust Spice Levels: Be mindful of your spice tolerance. Start with fewer scotch bonnet peppers if you’re unsure, as you can always add more later.
Simmer Slowly: Cooking on low heat allows all ingredients to meld together beautifully. This slow simmering process enhances depth in flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken
To create a well-rounded meal with Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken, pair it with these delicious side dishes:
Jamaican Rice and Peas
A classic Caribbean dish made with rice, kidney beans, coconut milk, and spices.Steamed Vegetables
Lightly steamed broccoli or carrots provide nutrition without overshadowing the main dish’s flavors.Bammy
A cassava flatbread that complements curries wonderfully; serve it warm for added texture.Coleslaw
A tangy coleslaw can balance out the heat from the curry while adding crunch and freshness.Cornmeal Dumplings
These dumplings are hearty and absorbent, making them perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce from your curry chicken.Fried Green Bananas
Crispy on the outside and tender inside; they offer a sweet element that contrasts nicely with spiciness.Coconut Rice
Cooked in coconut milk, this fluffy rice pairs excellently with any curry dish while enhancing tropical flavors.Sweet Potato Mash
Creamy sweet potato mash provides natural sweetness while complementing the savory notes of the curry chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some important steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the Marination: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least an hour or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Ignoring Spice Levels: Using too few scotch bonnet peppers can result in a less authentic dish. Adjust the number of peppers based on your spice tolerance, but don’t skip them entirely!
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it tough and dry. Aim for a tender texture by following cooking times closely.
- Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale spices or old produce can dull the dish’s flavor. Always opt for fresh ingredients and check the expiration dates on your spices.
- Not Balancing Flavors: Forgetting to balance sweetness with saltiness can affect taste. Use brown sugar and sea salt wisely to achieve a harmonious flavor profile.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Ensure there’s space in the container as liquids expand when frozen.
Reheating Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes or until piping hot, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock if it seems dry, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about making Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken:
What makes Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken unique?
This dish stands out due to its vibrant blend of spices, including Jamaican curry powder and scotch bonnet peppers, offering a distinct flavor and heat.
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! While chicken is traditional, you can use goat or even vegetables for a vegetarian version of Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken.
How spicy is Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken?
The spiciness depends on how many scotch bonnet peppers you use. Start with one and taste before adding more if you prefer extra heat.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, letting it sit overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is perfect for meal prep as it reheats well and maintains its flavor over several days.
Final Thoughts
Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is not only rich in flavor but also versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences. Whether served with rice or enjoyed as leftovers, this dish brings comfort and joy to any meal. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spice levels—make it your own!
Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean with Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken. This dish is a delightful blend of spices, tender chicken, and creamy coconut milk that creates a warm and aromatic meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The combination of scotch bonnet peppers adds just the right amount of heat, making every bite an adventure in flavor. Plus, it’s dairy-free and can be made gluten-free, accommodating various dietary preferences. Whether served over rice or enjoyed on its own, this recipe will transport you straight to Jamaica with its comforting essence and rich taste.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Jamaican
Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs organic chicken (skin removed)
- 2-3 tbsp Jamaican Green Seasoning
- 2 tbsp Jamaican curry powder
- 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 2 medium russet potatoes (peeled and cubed)
- 2 medium carrots (peeled and chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1-3 scotch bonnet peppers (adjust for spice level)
- Fresh thyme sprigs
- 1 cup low-sodium organic chicken stock
Instructions
- Marinate chicken with Jamaican Green Seasoning, curry powder, sea salt, smoked paprika, and browning for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and brown the chicken pieces.
- Add garlic, ginger, bell pepper, carrots, potatoes, scotch bonnet peppers, thyme, and brown sugar; sauté briefly.
- Pour in coconut milk and chicken stock; stir in additional curry powder and ground allspice.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 40 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 345
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
