Why Make This Recipe

Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a taste of the Caribbean right to your kitchen. This recipe is perfect for anyone wanting to explore new flavors and try cooking something different. The blend of spices, coconut milk, and tender chicken creates a warm and comforting meal. Plus, it is a fairly simple dish to prepare. With fresh ingredients and a touch of love, you can serve a delicious plate that will impress your family and friends.

How to Make Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Making Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is an enjoyable process. Let's break it down step-by-step.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

3-4 lbs. organic chicken, skin removed (Drumsticks + Thigh pieces work great!)
1-2 Tbsps browning (optional)
2-3 Tbsps Jamaican Green Seasoning
2 Tbsps Jamaican curry powder
2 tsps On Everything All-Purpose Blend
1 tsp sea salt
½ 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 and chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tsps minced fresh ginger (you can substitute with ½ tsp ground ginger)
1-3 scotch bonnet peppers (adjust for your spice level; you can also use habanero peppers)
2 green onions, lightly crushed or chopped (also known as scallion)
2 fresh thyme sprigs
1 cup organic chicken stock, low-sodium (you can also use chicken bone broth)
2 ½ Tbsps Jamaican curry powder
1 Tbsp Jamaican pepper sauce
Sea salt + black pepper, to taste

Directions

Marinate the Chicken: Start by marinating the chicken. In a large bowl, mix the chicken with Jamaican Green Seasoning, brown sugar, Jamaican curry powder, On Everything All-Purpose Blend, sea salt, smoked paprika, and browning (if using). Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours for a deeper flavor.
Brown the Chicken: Heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and brown them on all sides. This step develops the flavor, so take your time. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside.
Burn the Curry Powder: In the same pot, add 2 ½ tablespoons of Jamaican curry powder. Stir it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. This step is essential as it helps release the flavors of the spices.
To Make the Curry Sauce: Add minced garlic, ginger, scotch bonnet peppers, and chopped bell pepper to the pot. Stir for another minute. Then add the chicken back to the pot, along with the coconut milk, chicken stock, cubed potatoes, and chopped carrots. Mix well. Bring the pot to a gentle simmer, cover it, and cook for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is tender. Stir occasionally, adding water if it becomes too thick. Taste and adjust the seasoning with sea salt, black pepper, and Jamaican pepper sauce.

How to Serve Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

To serve, ladle generous portions of the curry chicken over cooked rice or with warm flatbreads. Sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for extra color and flavor. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Don't forget to provide extra napkins; it's a finger-licking meal!

How to Store Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

If you have leftovers, that's great! Store any uneaten curry chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When you are ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove until warmed through.

Tips to Make Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Spice Level: Adjust the number of scotch bonnet peppers according to your spice preference. Start with one and add more if you want it hotter.
Marination Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the better the flavor will be. Overnight marination is ideal if you have time.
Add Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes for more nutrition and taste.

Variation

You can easily modify this recipe. For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu. You can also use different proteins such as shrimp or beef, adjusting cooking times as needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of chicken?
Yes, you can use any cut of chicken you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time for smaller or larger pieces.

2. What can I serve with Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken?
This dish goes wonderfully with rice, roti, or boiled dumplings. You could also enjoy it with a fresh salad on the side.

3. How spicy is this dish?
The spice level can vary based on the amount of scotch bonnet peppers you use. The dish can be quite spicy, so adjust according to your taste.

Conclusion

Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is straightforward to make. With a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a meal that tastes like it comes from the Caribbean. Whether you are cooking for family or friends, this recipe offers a delightful experience filled with rich taste. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the spices, and enjoy making this wonderful dish!