Jamaican Curry Chicken is a flavorful and spicy dish, rich with Caribbean spices and tender chicken pieces. This traditional recipe is a staple in Jamaican cuisine, known for its vibrant flavors and aromatic spices. Perfect for any meal, Jamaican Curry Chicken is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
This recipe serves 4-6 people and can be prepared in approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
What is Jamaican Curry Chicken?
Jamaican Curry Chicken is a traditional Caribbean dish made with chicken marinated in a blend of spices, then cooked in a rich curry sauce with potatoes and peppers. It’s a hearty and flavorful meal highlighting Jamaican cuisine’s bold flavors.
Other Popular Recipes
- Mary Berry Chicken Curry With Coconut Milk
- Jamie Oliver Vegetable Curry
- Jamie Oliver Chicken Curry With Coconut Milk
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold and Spicy: Packed with authentic Jamaican spices for a flavorful experience.
- Hearty and Satisfying: A complete meal with chicken, potatoes, and peppers.
- Easy to Prepare: Simple steps make this dish accessible to all cooks.
- Versatile: Can be served with rice, bread, or vegetables.
- Authentic Flavor: Brings the taste of the Caribbean to your kitchen.
Ingredients Needed to Make Jamaican Curry Chicken
- 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) chicken thighs, bone-in, skinless, cut into pieces
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons Jamaican curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (optional, for extra heat)
- 400ml (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 500ml (17 oz) chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Instructions to Make Jamaican Curry Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, 1 tablespoon of curry powder, ground allspice, thyme, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the remaining curry powder and cook for 1 minute to release the flavors. Add the onions, garlic, and ginger. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pot. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables and Liquids
Stir in the potatoes, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and Scotch bonnet pepper. Add the tomato paste, coconut milk, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Simmer the Curry
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 40-45 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the Jamaican Curry Chicken hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
What Do I Serve With Jamaican Curry Chicken?
- Steamed Rice: Perfect for soaking up the curry sauce.
- Roti: A traditional Caribbean flatbread that pairs well with the curry.
- Fried Plantains: Adds a sweet contrast to the spicy curry.
- Coleslaw: Provides a refreshing crunch to the meal.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Jamaican Curry Chicken
- Marinate Longer: Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavors.
- Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices make a big difference in flavor.
- Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of Scotch bonnet pepper to suit your heat preference.
- Simmer Slowly: Slow simmering allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Variations of Jamaican Curry Chicken
- Add Vegetables: Include carrots, peas, or green beans for added nutrition.
- Different Protein: Substitute chicken with goat or shrimp for a different take.
- Spice Level: Increase or decrease the Scotch bonnet pepper to control the heat.
- Creamier Sauce: Add more coconut milk for a richer sauce.
How Do I Store Jamaican Curry Chicken Leftovers?
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How Do I Reheat Jamaican Curry Chicken Leftovers?
- Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe container for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Oven: Reheat in an oven-safe dish at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes.
Nutrition Value (per serving)
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Sugar: 5g
FAQs
Can I make Jamaican Curry Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Jamaican Curry Chicken ahead of time. The flavors develop even more if left overnight. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.
Is Jamaican Curry Chicken suitable for freezing?
Jamaican Curry Chicken is suitable for freezing. Allow the curry to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Can I make Jamaican Curry Chicken in a slow cooker?
You can make Jamaican Curry Chicken in a slow cooker. Follow the recipe instructions for preparing the ingredients and spices, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
How can I make Jamaican Curry Chicken less spicy?
To make Jamaican Curry Chicken less spicy, reduce the amount of Scotch bonnet pepper or omit it altogether. You can also add a dollop of yogurt or a splash of cream to the curry to mellow out the heat. Adjust the spices to your preference for a milder flavor.
Final Words
Jamaican Curry Chicken is a flavorful, hearty, and authentic dish that brings the taste of the Caribbean to your kitchen. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this curry is sure to impress. Enjoy the rich flavors and aromatic spices of this delightful recipe!