Name: Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Jamaican
Ingredients: 3-4 lbs. organic chicken, skin removed (Drumsticks + Thigh pieces work great!); 1-2 Tbsps browning, optional; 2-3 Tbsps Jamaican Green Seasoning (or substitute with all-purpose seasoning); 2 Tbsps Jamaican curry powder; 2 tsps On Everything All-Purpose Blend; 1 teaspoon sea salt; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; 4 Tbsps extra virgin olive oil; 2 Tbsps 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 tsps minced fresh ginger (or ½ tsp ground ginger); 1-3 scotch bonnet peppers (adjust to taste; can substitute habanero peppers); 2 green onions, lightly crushed or chopped (scallions); 2 fresh thyme sprigs; 1 cup organic chicken stock, low-sodium; 2 ½ Tbsps Jamaican curry powder; 1 tablespoon Jamaican pepper sauce (or favorite hot sauce); 1 teaspoon ground allspice; Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

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If you’re craving a dish bursting with warmth, spice, and layers of flavor, look no further than this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken. This recipe brings together tender chicken bathed in a rich, fragrant sauce made from a lively blend of Jamaican curry powder, fiery Scotch bonnet peppers, creamy coconut milk, and vibrant fresh herbs. Each bite transports you straight to the heart of Jamaica’s culinary soul, where comfort meets celebration in the most delicious way. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Caribbean food or trying it for the very first time, this dish promises to become a treasured favorite in your kitchen.

Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken lies in its straightforward yet deeply flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a role in building the perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and savory goodness. Using fresh and quality products will elevate the dish, making the preparation beautifully simple and rewarding.

Chicken (3-4 lbs., skin removed): Drumsticks and thigh pieces are excellent for juicy, tender results.
Browning (1-2 Tbsp, optional): Adds rich color without overpowering flavor.
Jamaican Green Seasoning (2-3 Tbsp): Infuses fresh herbaceous notes; substitute with all-purpose seasoning if needed.
Jamaican curry powder (2 and 2 ½ Tbsp): The star spice blend, essential for that authentic depth and aroma.
On Everything All-Purpose Blend (2 tsp): Custom seasoning blend that enhances overall taste.
Sea salt (1 tsp): Balances all flavors perfectly.
Smoked paprika (½ tsp): Adds a subtle smoky warmth.
Extra virgin olive oil (4 Tbsp): For browning and sautéing with richness.
Brown sugar (2 Tbsp): Offers a touch of sweetness to balance heat.
Full-fat coconut milk (1 can, 14 oz.): Creamy and luscious, softening the spice and melding flavors.
Russet potatoes (2 medium, cubed): Give substance and soak up the curry flavors beautifully.
Carrots (2 medium, chopped): Add natural sweetness and texture contrast.
Bell pepper (1 medium, chopped): Brings vibrant color and mild crunch.
Garlic cloves (3, minced): Deepens the savory aroma.
Fresh ginger (2 tsp, minced): Offers zesty warmth; ground ginger can be substituted if needed.
Scotch bonnet peppers (1-3): Adjust to your spice preference for that authentic Jamaican kick.
Green onions (2, crushed or chopped): Also known as scallions, they brighten the flavor.
Fresh thyme sprigs (2): Adds herbaceous earthiness essential in Caribbean cooking.
Organic chicken stock (1 cup, low sodium): Builds richness and depth.
Jamaican pepper sauce (1 Tbsp): For an extra layer of heat and tang.
Ground allspice (1 tsp): Brings warm, aromatic spice that complements curry perfectly.
Black pepper and sea salt (to taste): To season and enhance every ingredient.

How to Make Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Clean and rinse your chicken thoroughly, then massage it with browning (if using), Jamaican green seasoning, sea salt, On Everything All-Purpose Blend, smoked paprika, and curry powder. This step is essential because marinating allows the flavors to soak deep into the meat, giving every bite that unmistakable Jamaican character. Seal it in a bag and refrigerate for at least three hours—overnight is best for a truly intense taste.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a deep skillet and dissolve brown sugar until it becomes syrupy. Add the marinated chicken and sear each side until a golden-brown crust forms. This browning step is key to developing rich color and caramelized flavor, and it also seals in the juices so the chicken stays tender during simmering.

Step 3: Burn the Curry Powder

In the same skillet, heat additional olive oil and add the Jamaican curry powder. Let it cook without stirring for about 2 to 3 minutes until it darkens slightly and releases that intoxicating aroma. This “burning” step is a hallmark of Jamaican curry preparation that deeply enriches the flavor.

Step 4: Create the Curry Sauce

Add minced garlic, fresh ginger, Scotch bonnet peppers, green onions, carrots, and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant and golden. Season with allspice, salt, and black pepper, then pour in the coconut milk, chicken stock, and pepper sauce to form a luscious sauce. Bring to a boil before returning the browned chicken to the pan along with cubed potatoes, extra scallions, and thyme sprigs. Lower the heat and let it simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the chicken to become tender and infused with spice.

How to Serve Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Garnishes

To add that extra pop of color and freshness, sprinkle chopped scallions or red pepper flakes on top just before serving. These simple garnishes lift the dish visually and provide a subtle sharpness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

The best part about Jamaican curry chicken is how well it pairs with a variety of sides. Serve it with fluffy white rice or traditional rice and peas to soak up that rich sauce. For a vegetable element, steamed callaloo or sautéed cabbage makes a perfect complement, adding green freshness and balance.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow your guests or turn a family meal into a mini celebration, try serving the Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken in individual bowls with a side of fried plantains and a wedge of lime. Another fun idea is to use it as a filling for savory hand pies or wraps, making for an exciting twist on a classic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, store any leftover curry chicken in an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days, retaining its spectacular flavor and tender texture.

Freezing

This dish freezes wonderfully, making it ideal for meal prep. Freeze the cooled curry chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken stock if the sauce has thickened too much. This restores the sauce’s luscious texture and brings back the vibrant flavors just as if freshly cooked.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs and drumsticks?

While chicken breasts can be used, thighs and drumsticks are preferred because they stay juicier and more tender during slow cooking. Breasts tend to dry out more easily, especially with longer simmering times.

How spicy is Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken?

The heat level depends on how many Scotch bonnet peppers you add. These peppers are quite hot, so start with fewer and adjust to your tolerance. You can always add more pepper sauce or hot sauce later if desired.

What can I substitute if I can’t find Jamaican curry powder?

If authentic Jamaican curry powder is not available, try mixing ground turmeric, coriander, cumin, and fenugreek as a substitute. However, using the real deal really helps capture the distinct Jamaican flavor you want in this dish.

Is this dish dairy-free and gluten-free?

Yes! Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is naturally dairy-free since it uses coconut milk instead of cream, and it’s gluten-free as long as you check that your seasonings and stock contain no hidden gluten ingredients.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a party?

Absolutely! The flavors actually deepen when it sits, so making it a day ahead can make it even more delicious. Just reheat gently and serve with freshly cooked sides for a crowd-pleasing meal.

Final Thoughts

This Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is a truly rewarding dish to make and enjoy, blending vibrant spices, creamy textures, and comforting heartiness in every bite. If you want to bring a little taste of the Caribbean sunshine into your kitchen, this recipe is a fantastic place to start. Grab your pot, gather the ingredients, and let the cooking journey begin—you’ll be delighted by how effortlessly it comes together and how unforgettable it tastes!