Description
Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is a bold, comforting dish made with tender chicken, potatoes, and a richly seasoned curry gravy. With classic island flavors from Jamaican curry powder, thyme, garlic, ginger, and Scotch bonnet pepper, this recipe brings deep warmth and vibrant taste to the table in every bite.
Ingredients
2 1/2 pounds chicken thighs and drumsticks, skin removed and cut into pieces
2 tablespoons Jamaican curry powder
1 teaspoon all-purpose seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
4 scallions, chopped
1 medium onion, sliced
1 Scotch bonnet pepper, whole or sliced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
2 cups chicken stock or water
1 teaspoon browning sauce, optional
1 tablespoon ketchup, optional
1 teaspoon allspice or 1 crushed pimento berry
Instructions
1. Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of the curry powder, all-purpose seasoning, salt, black pepper, paprika, thyme, garlic, ginger, scallions, and onion. Rub everything into the chicken thoroughly and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon curry powder and stir it in the oil for 20 to 30 seconds.
3. Add the seasoned chicken to the pot along with any extra marinade from the bowl. Cook for several minutes, turning so the chicken starts to brown on multiple sides. Stir in the onion and scallions from the bowl.
4. Pour in the chicken stock or water. Add the potatoes, allspice, ketchup if using, and Scotch bonnet pepper. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.
5. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 30 to 40 minutes until the chicken is tender, the potatoes are soft, and the sauce has thickened.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove the whole Scotch bonnet if desired, then serve hot with rice, rice and peas, or fried plantains.
Notes
Use Jamaican curry powder for the most authentic flavor and color.
For milder heat, keep the Scotch bonnet whole while simmering.
Let the curry rest for a few minutes before serving so the gravy settles and tastes even richer.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Jamaican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
Keywords: authentic jamaican curry chicken, jamaican chicken curry, curry chicken recipe, caribbean chicken dinner