Save
This Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken bursts with flavor thanks to aromatic spices and fresh herbs melded into meltingly tender chicken. The heat from the scotch bonnet peppers blended with coconut milk gives every bite that signature island touch. This dish means comfort and home for so many Jamaicans and is the kind of meal that gathers everyone around the dinner table. Dairy-free with a gluten-free option, it is a real crowd-pleaser fit for weeknights or special occasions.
My first time making this curry was for a potluck and I could hardly keep any for myself. Ever since then my friends beg for the recipe and I never tire of sharing it.
Ingredients
- Organic chicken: Pieces from drumsticks and thighs offer the juiciest texture and absorb flavors well. Buy fresh or high-quality chicken for best taste
- Jamaican curry powder: Authentic curry powder makes all the difference. Look for vibrant color and deep aroma
- Jamaican Green Seasoning or all-purpose seasoning: This is the backbone for savory herbal notes. Use fresh ingredients if making your own
- Sea salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors. Choose sea salt for pure taste
- Smoked paprika: Brings depth and a whisper of smokiness. Paprika should be richly colored
- Brown sugar: Balances heat with a touch of sweetness. Opt for organic brown sugar
- Full-fat coconut milk: Adds creamy body and signature Caribbean silkiness. Shake the can before opening
- Russet potatoes and carrots: They soak up curry gravy and offer subtle sweetness. Pick firm potatoes and bright carrots
- Bell pepper: Adds a pop of color and sweet crunch. Choose ripe peppers for best flavor
- Garlic and fresh ginger: Build a foundation of bold flavor. Use both fresh for maximum punch
- Scotch bonnet peppers: Classic for Jamaican heat. Adjust the number for your desired spiciness. Look for firm glossy skins
- Green onions and thyme: Bring herbal and earthy notes. Use fresh for best aroma
- Chicken stock or bone broth: Deepens the flavor. Savory low-sodium stock or homemade broth are ideal
- Jamaican pepper sauce or favorite hot sauce: Lifts the whole dish with vibrant heat
- Ground allspice: Jamaican allspice brings warmth and complexity. Freshly ground is best
- Sea salt and black pepper: To taste for seasoning as you go
- On Everything All-Purpose Blend: Optional but gives that extra authentic edge. Mix your own if you do not have this handy
- Browning sauce: Optional darkens and intensifies color for that signature look
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl toss freshly cleaned chicken pieces with browning sauce if using Green Seasoning sea salt All-Purpose Blend smoked paprika and curry powder. Massage seasonings into chicken until every piece is well coated. Seal in a ziplock bag or cover bowl tightly. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least three hours or overnight if you have time. Let chicken come to room temperature for about twenty minutes before cooking
- Brown the Chicken:
- Heat two tablespoons olive oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high. When oil shimmers add brown sugar and stir until just melted and deepened in color. Nestle in marinated chicken pieces. Sear on each side until browned for about three to four minutes per side. Remove chicken and rest on a plate
- Burn the Curry Powder:
- Return skillet to medium-high. Add two more tablespoons olive oil. Once hot sprinkle in Jamaican curry powder. Stir and cook until the curry turns a rich brown and releases a mouthwatering aroma about two to three minutes. This step unlocks its full flavor
- Build the Curry Sauce:
- Add garlic ginger scotch bonnet peppers green onions carrots and bell pepper. Sauté until they are fragrant and vegetables start to soften around three minutes. Season with allspice salt and pepper. Stir well to combine
- Simmer the Chicken and Sauce:
- Pour in coconut milk chicken stock and pepper sauce. Stir well and increase heat to bring mixture to a gentle boil. Add browned chicken potatoes more green onion and fresh thyme. Stir gently then lower heat. Cover and simmer twenty to twenty five minutes. Stir occasionally until chicken is fall-off-the-bone tender and sauce has thickened to a luscious gravy
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot over fluffy rice or with your favorite side. Sprinkle with extra scallions or a pinch of pepper flakes for color
Save
I have a soft spot for scotch bonnet peppers The fruity fiery kick they add reminds me of family gatherings where everyone would race to see who could handle the most heat No curry ever tasted quite the same without them
Storage Tips
Jamaican curry chicken keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days Store in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove Add a splash of water or chicken stock if it thickens too much Curry can also be frozen for up to two months Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating
Ingredient Substitutions
If authentic Jamaican curry powder is unavailable choose a Caribbean-style blend for the closest flavor In place of scotch bonnet peppers try habaneros or use less for milder palettes Boneless skinless chicken thighs can substitute for whole pieces though the flavor is richer with bone in For a vegetarian version try chickpeas and extra potatoes in place of chicken
Serving Suggestions
This dish shines alongside steamed white rice or Jamaican rice and peas Try with fried plantains or a tangy cucumber salad for contrast A slice of buttery roti makes a great mop for extra sauce
Save
Cultural and Historical Context
Curry was introduced to Jamaica from Indian immigrants in the nineteenth century and has since become a staple that is uniquely Jamaican The slow building of flavors and signature spicy warmth turn each pot into a celebration My own kitchen fills with laughter and music when curry chicken is cooking because meals like these always bring people together
Recipe FAQs
- → What gives Jamaican curry its distinctive flavor?
Authentic Jamaican curry relies on a bold blend of spices, including turmeric, allspice, and Scotch bonnet peppers, delivering unique heat and complexity.
- → Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?
Yes, marinating ensures the chicken absorbs the seasoning, resulting in deeper flavor and tenderness. Overnight marination is best for full taste.
- → What can I serve with Jamaican curry chicken?
Traditional sides like steamed white rice, rice and peas, fried plantains, or sautéed greens pair perfectly with this dish.
- → How spicy is this dish?
Spice levels are customizable—adjust the quantity of Scotch bonnet or habanero peppers for more or less heat as desired.
- → Is the sauce supposed to be thick or runny?
The sauce should be rich and thick, with enough gravy to coat the chicken and sides without being overly watery.
- → Can I make this dairy-free or gluten-free?
Absolutely. The use of coconut milk keeps it dairy-free, and gluten-free options abound depending on accompanying sides and spice blends.