Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Jamaican Curry Chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish that brings the warm spices of the Caribbean to your kitchen. This simple recipe combines tender chicken with aromatic curry powder and hearty vegetables for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 tablespoons Jamaican curry powder
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup water or chicken broth

Instructions

1. Step 1: Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and curry powder, making sure they are well coated on all sides.
2. Step 2: Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
3. Step 3: Add the seasoned chicken to the pot and brown on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
4. Step 4: Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
5. Step 5: Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
6. Step 6: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra heat, add Scotch bonnet peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper while cooking.
• Use coconut milk instead of water for a richer, creamier sauce.
• Add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for more color and nutrition.
• Marinate the chicken in the curry powder and spices for a few hours to deepen the flavor.

Storage

Store leftover Jamaican Curry Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs or drumsticks?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may cook faster and can dry out. Keep an eye on cooking time and avoid overcooking.

What can I serve with Jamaican Curry Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice, rice and peas, or flatbreads like roti to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 78 reviews

Jamaican Curry Chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich and aromatic curry sauce with potatoes and onions. This classic Jamaican recipe brings together the warmth of curry powder and the heartiness of vegetables, perfect for a satisfying meal.

• Author: Yana
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Jamaican

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 2 lbs chicken pieces (bone-in or boneless, skin-on for best flavor)

Spices and Seasoning

• 2 tbsp Jamaican curry powder
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Vegetables

• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 large onion, sliced

Additional Ingredients

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 cup water or chicken broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional, for added flavor)
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, whole or chopped (optional, for authentic heat)

Instructions

1. Season the chicken: In a large bowl, coat the chicken pieces evenly with the Jamaican curry powder, salt, and pepper. For enhanced flavor, let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and minced garlic (if using), sautéing until translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Brown the chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pot. Cook until they are browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This process helps to develop deep flavors.
4. Add potatoes and liquid: Stir in the diced potatoes and add the water or chicken broth along with the Scotch bonnet pepper if using. Ensure the liquid covers the chicken and potatoes partially.
5. Simmer the curry: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer gently for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender, and the potatoes are soft. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
6. Final seasoning and serve: Taste and adjust salt or spice as needed. Remove the Scotch bonnet pepper before serving if you want to reduce the heat. Serve hot with rice and peas or plain white rice.

Notes

• For an authentic Jamaican flavor, using Jamaican curry powder is essential.
• Bone-in chicken offers more flavor, but boneless will cook faster.
• Simmering gently ensures tender chicken and well-cooked potatoes without drying out.
• Adjust the Scotch bonnet pepper cautiously; it is very spicy.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors meld.

Keywords: Jamaican curry chicken, curry chicken recipe, Caribbean chicken, spicy chicken stew, one-pot curry chicken