Bring bold Caribbean flavor straight to your kitchen with this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken. This dish is rich, warming, and deeply satisfying, featuring tender chicken simmered slowly in a fragrant curry sauce with coconut milk, fresh herbs, and classic island spices. It’s a beloved comfort food known for its depth of flavor, customizable heat, and soul-warming appeal—perfect for weeknight dinners or relaxed weekend meals.

Advertisements

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

3–4 lbs bone-in chicken (thighs and drumsticks preferred), skin removed
2 tablespoons Jamaican curry powder
2 tablespoons all-purpose seasoning
1 teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon browning sauce (optional, for color)

For the Curry Sauce

4 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, see notes)
1 (14 oz) can full-fat unsweetened coconut milk
1 cup low-sodium chicken stock
2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 medium carrots, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced
1–3 Scotch bonnet peppers (whole or chopped, to taste)
2 green onions, lightly crushed
2 fresh thyme sprigs
2½ tablespoons Jamaican curry powder
1 teaspoon ground allspice
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Add chicken to a large bowl with curry powder, all-purpose seasoning, salt, paprika, and browning sauce (if using).
Mix well until fully coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight.
Let chicken rest at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before cooking.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a deep pot over medium-high heat.
Add brown sugar and allow it to dissolve and darken slightly.
Add marinated chicken and sear on all sides for 3–4 minutes per side.
Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Toast the Curry Powder

Add remaining oil to the same pot.
Stir in curry powder and cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and darkened.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Add garlic, ginger, Scotch bonnet, green onions, carrots, and bell pepper.
Sauté until aromatic.
Stir in allspice, salt, and black pepper.

Step 5: Simmer

Pour in coconut milk and chicken stock.
Add potatoes, thyme, and browned chicken.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes until chicken is tender and sauce thickens.
Adjust seasoning as needed.

Pro Tips

Marinate overnight for maximum flavor infusion
Always toast Jamaican curry powder to deepen aroma and color
Keep Scotch bonnets whole for mild heat, chopped for bold spice
Simmer gently for the best texture and rich gravy

Why This Recipe Works

Balanced heat with creamy coconut milk
Slow simmering creates tender, juicy chicken
Uses traditional Caribbean techniques
Naturally dairy-free and gluten-free

Substitutions & Variations

Protein swaps: Shrimp, goat, beef, tofu, chickpeas
Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with potatoes, mushrooms, and peas
Milder heat: Use half a Scotch bonnet or remove seeds
No coconut milk: Substitute with broth for a lighter curry

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

Make-Ahead: Marinate chicken up to 48 hours ahead
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for 3–4 days
Reheating: Warm gently on stovetop with a splash of broth

Serving Ideas

Steamed white rice or basmati rice
Rice and peas
Fried plantains
Steamed cabbage or sautéed vegetables

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

Calories: ~720
Protein: ~45g
Carbohydrates: ~40g
Fat: ~28g
Fiber: ~6g

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Jamaican curry chicken spicy?

It can be. Adjust the Scotch bonnet to control heat.

Advertisements

Do I have to use coconut milk?

No, but it adds signature creaminess and balances spice.

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, but bone-in chicken delivers better flavor.

Advertisements

Why toast the curry powder?

It enhances aroma, color, and overall depth of flavor.

This Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken delivers bold island flavor in every bite. With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and comforting warmth, it’s a timeless dish that brings people together—simple, soulful, and unforgettable.

Advertisements