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Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

A delightful blend of tender chicken and robust spices, this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken transports you to the vibrant Caribbean shores with every bite.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Caribbean, Jamaican
Servings 4 servings
Calories 380 kcal

Ingredients
  

Chicken Marinade

  • 2 lbs chicken (cut into pieces)
  • 2 tablespoons Jamaican curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon allspice (pimento)
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
  • to taste Salt and black pepper

Vegetables & Broth

  • 1 medium onion (sliced)
  • 2 medium potatoes (cubed)
  • 2 medium carrots (sliced)
  • 1 medium bell pepper (sliced)
  • 2-3 cups chicken broth or water
  • 1-2 scotch bonnet peppers (whole or diced) Use whole for mild heat or diced for more heat.

Cooking Essentials

  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2-3 spring onions (chopped) For garnish
  • to taste Fresh thyme (optional) For garnish

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with Jamaican curry powder, allspice, garlic, ginger, salt, and black pepper. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if you have time.
  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
  • Add the sliced onions and sauté until they turn translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  • Introduce the marinated chicken to the pot, browning it on all sides to release the spices’ aromas.
  • Add in the cubed potatoes, sliced carrots, and bell pepper. Stir well to ensure they’re well coated with the curry.
  • Pour in enough chicken broth (or water) to cover the ingredients. Adjust the amount based on your preference for sauce thickness.
  • Add the whole scotch bonnet pepper for gentle heat. If you like extra spice, slice it open before adding it in.
  • Bring this mix to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes until the chicken is fork-tender.
  • Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed. If it’s too thick, feel free to add more broth or water.
  • Stir in chopped spring onions and fresh thyme just before removing from heat.

Notes

Serve over fluffy white rice or a bed of steamed jasmine rice to soak up the delicious sauce, and pair with fried plantains for an authentic Caribbean flair. For a fresh touch, add a side salad with citrus dressing.
Keyword comfort food, Curry Chicken, easy dinner, Jamaican Cuisine, Spicy Dish