Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 72 reviews

  • Author: Sophia
  • Total Time: 3 hours 55 minutes (including marinating)
  • Yield: 6-8 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is a rich, flavorful dish featuring tender, marinated chicken simmered in a spicy and aromatic curry sauce made with traditional Jamaican seasonings and coconut milk. This vibrant one-pot meal combines bold spices, vegetables, and the heat of Scotch bonnet peppers for an unmistakably Caribbean taste.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 3-4 lbs. organic chicken, skin removed (Drumsticks + Thigh pieces preferred)
  • 1-2 Tbsps browning (optional)
  • 2-3 Tbsps Jamaican Green Seasoning (or all-purpose seasoning)
  • 2 Tbsps Jamaican curry powder
  • 2 tsps On Everything All-Purpose Blend (see notes for homemade blend)
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Spicy Jamaican Curry Sauce

  • 4 Tbsps extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 Tbsps organic brown sugar
  • 1 (14 oz.) can full-fat coconut milk
  • 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 1 medium bell pepper, cored and chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tsps minced fresh ginger (or ½ tsp ground ginger)
  • 1-3 Scotch bonnet peppers (adjust to spice preference; habaneros can substitute)
  • 2 green onions, lightly crushed or chopped (scallions)
  • 2 fresh thyme sprigs
  • 1 cup organic low-sodium chicken stock or bone broth
  • 2 ½ Tbsps Jamaican curry powder
  • 1 tablespoon Jamaican pepper sauce (or preferred hot sauce)
  • 1 teaspoon ground allspice
  • Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine cleaned chicken with browning (if using), Jamaican Green Seasoning, sea salt, All-Purpose Blend, smoked paprika, and curry powder. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly. Transfer the coated chicken to a sealed ziplock bag and refrigerate for at least 3 hours; ideally overnight. Before cooking, let the chicken rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
  2. Brown the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the brown sugar and stir until it dissolves and appears wet. Add the marinated chicken pieces and sear each side for 3-4 minutes until nicely browned. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
  3. Burn the Curry Powder: In the same skillet, add another 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the 2 ½ tablespoons of Jamaican curry powder and stir continuously, allowing it to ‘burn’ or darken to a fragrant deep brown, about 2-3 minutes. This step enhances the curry’s flavor and color.
  4. Make the Curry Sauce: Add minced garlic, ginger, Scotch bonnet peppers, green onions, carrots, and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant and vegetables start to become golden. Stir in ground allspice, salt, and black pepper until combined.
  5. Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the coconut milk, chicken stock, and pepper sauce. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil for about one minute. Add the seared chicken, cubed potatoes, crushed scallions, and thyme sprigs. Stir well to incorporate all ingredients.
  6. Simmer Until Cooked: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens and chicken is cooked through and tender. The sauce should have a thick, gravy-like consistency suitable for serving with sides.
  7. Serve: Remove from heat and serve the curry chicken hot, garnished with chopped scallion and optional red pepper flakes. Enjoy with your favorite side such as rice or steamed vegetables.

Notes

  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated with added chicken stock to maintain sauce consistency.
  • Adding 1 teaspoon turmeric to the curry sauce is optional but recommended for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
  • If authentic Jamaican seasonings like browning, Green Seasoning, or curry powder are unavailable, quality substitutes or blends from the Amazon Shop can be used.
  • Burning the curry powder is important to reduce digestive discomfort and to maximize flavor and color.
  • For a gluten-free version, ensure all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
  • Homemade All-Purpose Blend: 1 teaspoon sea salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon dried parsley combined.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes plus marinating time (minimum 3 hours)
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Jamaican

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