The Ultimate Jamaican Curried Chicken Recipe: A Flavorful Caribbean Delight

A Taste of the Caribbean

Jamaican Curried Chicken combines rich spices and local ingredients like Scotch bonnet peppers and allspice, creating a distinctive dish loved in Jamaica and globally. It features turmeric-rich Jamaican curry powder, adding a unique flavor and color.

Jamaican Curried Chicken Recipe | Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Dish | Easy Caribbean Recipe

DifficultyEasy

Servings4-6

Prep time20 minutes

Cook time45 minutes

Total time1 hour5 minutes

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 lbs bone-in, skinless chicken thighs (cut into pieces)
• 2 tbsp Jamaican curry powder
• 1 tsp all-purpose seasoning
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp allspice (pimento)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (whole or chopped for extra heat)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Curry Sauce:

• 2 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 large potato, diced
• 1 medium carrot, sliced
• 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional, for a creamier texture)
• 2 scallions, chopped
• 1 tbsp butter (for a rich finish)

Let's Get Cooking!

Instructions:

• 1
  • Marinate the Chicken:
    • In a large bowl, mix the chicken pieces with Jamaican curry powder, all-purpose seasoning, salt, black pepper, allspice, garlic, onion, thyme, and ginger.
    • Cover and let marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best flavor.
• 2
  • Brown the Chicken:
    • Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
    • Add the chicken pieces and brown for 5 minutes per side.
• 3
  • Create the Curry Base:
    • Add the remaining marinade, Scotch bonnet pepper, and extra curry powder (if desired).
    • Stir and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom.
• 4
  • Simmer the Curry:
    • Pour in water or chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is fully covered.
    • Cover the pot and let simmer for 30 minutes on medium-low heat.
• 5
  • Add Vegetables & Finish the Dish:
    • Stir in potatoes, carrots, coconut milk (if using), and scallions.
    • Let simmer for another 10-15 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the sauce thickens.
    • Stir in butter for a silky finish.
• 6
  • Serve & Enjoy:
    • Remove from heat and serve with steamed rice, rice and peas, or roti.

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon

Recipe notes and Variations

Tips & Variations:

• Want extra heat? Add another Scotch bonnet pepper.
• Prefer boneless? Use boneless chicken thighs for a quicker cook time.
• Make it creamy: Stir in coconut milk for a richer curry.
• Boost the flavor: Add a dash of lime juice at the end for freshness.
• Add more veggies: Bell peppers, green beans, or even sweet potatoes can be great additions.
• Try a different protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp, goat, or tofu for a twist.
• Thicker sauce? Mash a few pieces of potato into the sauce for a natural thickener.

Nutrition

Calories	350
Carbohydrates	20g
Cholesterol	85mg
Fat	18g
Fiber	4g
Protein	30g
Saturated Fat	6g
Sodium	620mg
Sugar	4g
Unsaturated Fat	8g

The Art of Cooking Jamaican Curry Chicken

The secret to making the perfect Jamaican curry chicken recipe lies in marination, seasoning, and slow-cooking techniques. Traditionally, the chicken is marinated in a rich blend of herbs and spices, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor. The use of fresh ingredients, including garlic, onions, thyme, and the infamous Scotch bonnet pepper, enhances the dish’s authenticity.

In this recipe for Jamaican curried chicken, slow cooking allows the flavors to infuse deeply into the chicken, creating an irresistible, tender, and flavorful dish. Some prefer to brown the chicken first, which deepens the flavor profile, while others add potatoes and carrots to thicken the curry sauce naturally.

What Makes Jamaican Curry Chicken Unique?

• Jamaican Curry Powder: Unlike other curries, this version is made with a specially blended Jamaican curry powder rich in turmeric, coriander, and allspice.
• Scotch Bonnet Peppers: One of the hottest peppers in the world, it delivers a fiery, fruity heat that’s iconic in Jamaican food recipes curry chicken.
• Slow Simmered Goodness: The chicken is cooked low and slow to develop a thick, flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with rice and peas or steamed white rice.
• Marination is Key: A well-marinated chicken absorbs the flavors of the curry powder, garlic, thyme, and spices, making each bite unforgettable.

What Occasions is Jamaican Curried Chicken Perfect For?

Whether you’re preparing a hearty family meal, a Caribbean-themed dinner, or meal prepping, Jamaican curry chicken dish is a versatile option. It’s a crowd-pleaser at Sunday dinners, special gatherings, and even meal plans for the week. The leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

Why This is the Perfect Recipe

This recipe for Jamaican curry chicken is easy to follow, full of authentic flavors, and made with ingredients that are readily available. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying your hand at Jamaican food recipes curry chicken for the first time, this dish is guaranteed to impress.