Print

Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

5 from 23 reviews

Experience the rich and vibrant flavors of the Caribbean with this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken recipe. Tender chicken marinated in aromatic spices and Jamaican green seasoning is simmered in a spicy coconut curry sauce with vegetables, creating a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Marinade

  • 34 lbs. organic chicken, skin removed (drumsticks and thigh pieces recommended)
  • 12 tablespoons browning (optional)
  • 23 tablespoons Jamaican Green Seasoning (or all-purpose seasoning as a substitute)
  • 2 tablespoons Jamaican curry powder
  • 2 teaspoons On Everything All-Purpose Blend (or homemade blend)
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Spicy Jamaican Curry Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons 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 teaspoons minced fresh ginger (or ½ teaspoon ground ginger)
  • 13 scotch bonnet peppers (adjust based on heat preference; habanero peppers are a 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 tablespoons 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 and rinsed chicken with browning, Jamaican Green Seasoning, sea salt, On Everything All-Purpose Blend, smoked paprika, and Jamaican curry powder. Toss thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated. Transfer the chicken to a securely sealed ziplock bag and refrigerate for a minimum of 3 hours, ideally overnight for best flavor. Before cooking, allow the chicken to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Curry Sauce: Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, fresh ginger, scotch bonnet peppers, and green onions. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and aromatic.
  3. Add Vegetables and Spices: Stir in the brown sugar, Jamaican curry powder, ground allspice, and continue cooking for another minute to toast the spices. Then, add the peeled and chopped potatoes, carrots, and bell pepper to the pot. Mix well to coat the vegetables with the spice blend.
  4. Combine Chicken and Liquids: Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pot, arranging them evenly. Pour in the coconut milk and chicken stock, stirring gently to combine. Add the fresh thyme sprigs and Jamaican pepper sauce. Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste.
  5. Simmer the Curry: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 45-55 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender, and the vegetables are soft. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  6. Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Remove the thyme sprigs. Taste the curry and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or hot sauce if desired. Serve hot over steamed rice or with traditional Jamaican sides such as fried plantains or dumplings.

Notes

  • Browning is optional but adds depth of color and flavor to the chicken; use sparingly.
  • On Everything All-Purpose Blend is a signature Jamaican spice mix containing ingredients like pimento, garlic, salt, and black pepper; homemade blends can be used as substitutes.
  • Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor but a minimum of 3 hours is required for good results.
  • Scotch bonnet peppers are very spicy; adjust the quantity to your heat tolerance or substitute with habanero peppers.
  • Using full-fat coconut milk ensures a rich, creamy sauce; light coconut milk may yield a thinner curry.
  • Serve with steamed white rice or traditional Jamaican side dishes for an authentic meal experience.

Nutrition

Keywords: Jamaican curry chicken, authentic Jamaican recipe, Caribbean chicken curry, spicy curry chicken, Jamaican cuisine