Jamaican Curry Chicken presents a fiery and flavor-packed Caribbean curry delight. Crafted from bone-in chicken, vibrant Jamaican curry powder, chicken seasoning, allspice berries, scotch bonnet peppers, coconut milk, fresh herbs, and aromatic ingredients.
Known for its bold tastes, this Jamaican Curry Chicken offers an explosion of flavors in every mouthful. It is one of the best chicken curries that tastes great with rice and peas or paired with roti, it promises a gratifying lunch or dinner experience.
This recipe offers clear, step-by-step instructions for preparing Jamaican Curry Chicken, making the cooking process seamless. Additionally, I've included guidance on creating your own Jamaican curry powder to simplify the process further. For a visual guide, a comprehensive video tutorial is provided below, ensuring you can effortlessly follow along and create this delectable dish with confidence.
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What is Jamaican Curry Chicken?
Jamaican Curry Chicken is a spicy, aromatic, and delightful dish. Crafted with bone-in chicken, Jamaican curry powder, allspice berries, turmeric, coconut milk, fresh herbs, and aromatics, this dish embodies the essence of Jamaica's flavors. This Jamaican Curry Chicken is one of the best chicken curries that traditionally tastes great with rice and peas, rice dishes, or flat bread like roti for a memorable lunch or dinner.
What sets Jamaican Chicken Curry apart is its unique blend of spices and ingredients, capturing the heart and soul of Jamaican cuisine. Specially crafted Jamaican curry powder imparts a deep, robust character that sets it apart from regular blends. The allspice berries, a hallmark of Caribbean cuisine, impart a touch of warmth and sweetness that distinguishes this curry from its counterparts.
Whether it's a regular weekday lunch or a special dinner to impress guests, Jamaican Curry Chicken reigns as an exceptional choice. Its bold flavors make it an unforgettable companion for white or basmati rice, or even traditional rice and peas.
Ingredients & Substitutions
To prepare this flavorful Jamaican Curry Chicken, you'll require an array of fresh produce, aromatic spices, and fragrant herbs. These essential ingredients are readily available at most retail grocery stores. Let's delve into the components that create this delectable dish.
Fresh Produce
Below are the fresh ingredients you will need for making this Jamaican Curry Chicken.
- Chicken: Opt for mixed bone-in chicken pieces for a more flavorful outcome compared to boneless alternatives
- Onions: Infuse the curry with a rich and savory depth by including these aromatic gems
- Bell Peppers: Red and green bell peppers not only lend color but also contribute a slight sweetness to the curry. Feel free to explore other color options
- Potatoes and Carrots: These sturdy vegetables absorb the flavors of the curry, enhancing its overall taste and heartiness
- Herbs: Incorporate scallions and sprigs of thyme to introduce a fresh, herbaceous aroma that complements the dish perfectly
Spices and Other Add-Ins
Below are the spices and add-ins you will require for making this Curry Chicken.
- Jamaican Curry Powder: Elevate the curry's flavor with this unique blend, boasting a distinctive and robust taste. If unavailable, regular curry powder can be a suitable alternative. Additionally, I've guided you on creating your own Jamaican Curry powder below, simplifying the process for your convenience
- Chicken Seasoning: Elevate the overall flavor profile by introducing this seasoning, creating a harmonious blend of tastes
- Allspice Berry: With warm and slightly sweet undertones, the allspice berry imparts a comforting essence to the curry
- Turmeric Powder: Not just for color, turmeric also offers a subtle earthy note that enhances the overall taste
- Scotch Bonnet Pepper: Known for its fiery kick, tailor the quantity to your desired heat level. Remove seeds for a milder spice. If unavailable, habanero or jalapeño peppers can be used as substitutes
- Ginger and Garlic: These aromatic powerhouses provide depth and complexity to the curry, elevating its overall taste. I've employed them in crushed form for marination and chopped for the curry, though using ginger garlic paste is also an option if it's more convenient for you
- Coconut Milk: Introduce a creamy, indulgent texture to the dish while enhancing its flavor profile with a hint of coconut essence. Though not typically used in Jamaican curry chicken, it adds an unique flavor to the dish. You can also use chicken broth or water instead. Make sure to adjust salt if needed due to the broth's saltiness
For a detailed ingredients list, please check out the recipe card below.
How to Make Jamaican Curry Chicken at Home?
The recipe I have shared here is for Jamaican Curry Chicken, an aromatic and flavorful dish. Tender chicken infused with aromatic spices and simmered in creamy coconut milk brings the authentic flavors of the islands to your plate. This dish is perfect for lunch or dinner, especially if you're craving a bold and spicy culinary adventure.
Below are the high-level instructions for this recipe, but for detailed step-by-step instructions with photos and a video, please see the recipe card below.
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with crushed ginger, garlic, curry powder, chicken seasoning, turmeric, allspice berries, spring onions, thyme, rosemary, black pepper, and salt. Mix well and let it rest for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors blend
- Saute: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and bell peppers, and sauté until they become soft
- Bloom curry powder: Stir in 1 tablespoon of curry powder and sauté until it becomes fragrant. This step brings out the natural aroma of the curry powder. This step intensifies the flavor of the spices
- Add chicken: Add the marinated chicken and cook for 3-5 minutes without disturbing
- Mix aromatics: Mix in sliced ginger, chopped garlic, and scotch bonnet pepper, and thoroughly combine. Cover the pan with its lid and cook until the chicken releases its juices
- Add veggies: Once the chicken has released its juices, remove the lid and add potatoes, carrots, and salt. Mix well
- Thyme's Fragrant Touch: Thyme is a key herb in Jamaican cuisine, contributing an earthy and aromatic dimension to your curry. Add a moderate amount of fresh thyme leaves early in the cooking process to allow their flavor to infuse into the curry
- Cook: Pour in 1 cup of coconut milk, thyme and give it a good stir. Cover the pan again with its lid and cook the mixture for around 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked
- Garnish and remove: Open the lid, add fresh spring onions, give it a final stir, and then remove from heat. Your flavorful Jamaican Curry Chicken is now ready to be enjoyed
How to Make Jamaican Curry Powder at Home?
Jamaican curry powder serves as a fundamental ingredient for creating a chicken curry that's vibrant, bold, and bursting with flavor. While it's commonly available at retail stores, you also have the option to craft it at home. Let's delve into the process of making it from scratch.
The necessary ingredients include:
- 2 tbsp Turmeric Powder
- 2 tbsp Coriander Seeds
- 1 tbsp Cumin Seeds
- 1 ½ tsp Ginger Powder
- 1 tbsp Allspice Berries
- 2 tbsp Yellow Mustard
- 1 tsp Fenugreek Seeds
- 1 Clove
- 1 tsp Black Peppercorns
- ¼ tsp Ground Nutmeg
- ½ tsp Ground Scotch Bonnet Pepper, for heat
Begin by gently toasting the whole spices in a medium pan until their aromas are released. This process helps bring out the natural oils within the spices. Once fragrant, remove them from the heat and allow them to cool to room temperature. Proceed by transferring the cooled whole spices to a blender and grinding them until a smooth powder forms.
Combine this ground powder with other spice powders and store it in an airtight container. This homemade Jamaican curry powder can be utilized in recipes that call for its distinct flavor profile.
Tips
- Balancing Flavors: Pay attention to the quantities of spices and seasonings you're using. Adjust the amounts according to your taste preferences. Start with a little less and gradually add more as needed to avoid overpowering the dish
- Marinating Time: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes is important. This step lets the flavors penetrate the meat and makes the chicken more flavorful
- Sautéing Veggies: Sauté the onions and bell peppers until they become soft and slightly caramelized. This step contributes a sweet and savory foundation to the curry
- Curry Powder Blooming: When sautéing the curry powder, make sure it becomes fragrant but doesn't burn. This step brings out the full flavor of the spices
- Chicken Cooking: When cooking the marinated chicken, give it a few minutes without stirring to create a nice sear. This adds depth of flavor to the dish
- Aromatic Ingredients: The sliced ginger, chopped garlic, and scotch bonnet pepper add depth and heat to the curry. Adjust the quantity of scotch bonnet pepper based on your spice tolerance
- Liquid Release: Covering the pan while cooking the chicken helps trap moisture, leading to the release of natural chicken juices. This creates a flavorful base for the curry
- Adding Vegetables: Add the potatoes and carrots when the chicken has released its juices. These veggies will absorb the flavors of the curry as they cook
- Coconut Milk: Coconut milk adds richness and creaminess to the dish. Make sure to stir it well into the curry for even distribution
- Simmering Time: Allow the curry to simmer gently, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors meld together
- Adjustments: Taste the curry as you cook and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Remember that the final taste should be balanced and flavorful
Storage Suggestions
Store this Jamaican Curry Chicken in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain its rich flavors. When reheating, opt for the stovetop or microwave for a satisfyingly warm and flavorful meal.
Serving Suggestions
Jamaican Curry Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish that pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some options to consider serving alongside:
- Rice and Peas: A classic Jamaican side dish, rice, and peas are made with rice and kidney beans cooked in coconut milk. It's a perfect complement to the rich flavors of curry chicken
- Rice Dishes: white rice, basmati rice, jasmine rice, or brown rice pairs perfectly well with the flavors of this curry
- Festival: These are sweet, fried cornbread fritters that add a nice contrast to the spiciness of the curry chicken. They're often served at festivals and gatherings in Jamaica
- Plantains: Fried or sautéed sweet plantains provide a delicious sweet and savory contrast to the curry flavors
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw with a tangy dressing can help balance out the richness of the Jamaican Curry Chicken
- Sauteed Dishes: Serve a medley of sauteed vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, asparagus, zucchini, and green beans, to add freshness and color to the plate
- Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad with onions, tomatoes, and a tangy dressing can provide a cooling contrast to the spicy curry
- Roti: Roti is a flatbread popular in the Caribbean and Indian cuisine. Its soft texture is great for scooping up the curry sauce
- Jamaican Hard Dough Bread: This dense and slightly sweet bread is a staple in Jamaican cuisine and can be perfect to mop up the delicious curry sauce
- Ackee and Saltfish: While traditionally a breakfast dish, ackee, and saltfish can also be great as a side
Related Recipes
You can also find similar curry recipes below and more at chicken curry recipes.
- Chicken Curry
- Japanese Curry
- Thai Yellow Chicken Curry
- Thai Green Chicken Curry
- Panang Curry
- Chicken Korma
- Chicken Tikka Masala
- Butter Chicken Masala
- Chicken Vindaloo
- Chicken Karahi
- Chicken Chettinad
More veg curries:
Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe Video
I have also shared a detailed video of this Jamaican Curry Chicken recipe below that I hope will help you make a flavorful meal at home. You can also find this recipe in a story format.
📖 Recipe
Jamaican Curry Chicken
Ingredients
For Marination
- 2 lb Chicken, mixed bone-in pieces
- 1 tbsp Chicken Seasoning
- 1½ tbsp Jamaican Curry Powder, or regular curry powder
- ½ tsp Turmeric Powder
- 2 tbsp Ginger Garlic, crushed, made of ¾ inch ginger and 4 cloves of garlic
- 6 Allspice Berry
- Salt, to taste
- 3 tbsp Spring Onion, chopped
- 2 sprig Thyme
- 1 sprig Rosemary
- ½ tsp Black Pepper, powder
Other Ingredients
- ¼ cup Onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup Red Bell Pepper, chopped
- ¼ cup Green Bell Pepper
- 1 tbsp Jamaican Curry Powder
- 1 inch Ginger, sliced
- 4 cloves Garlic, chopped
- 2 Scotch Bonnet Pepper, reduce the quantity and remove seeds for milder heat
- 2 Potato, bite-size gold, honey gold, or Yukon gold potato chopped
- 1 Carrot, medium size, chopped
- 1 sprig Thyme
- 1 cup Coconut Milk
- 3 tbsp Spring Onion, chopped
- 1 tsp Salt, or adjust to taste
- 3 tbsp Oil
Instructions
To make Jamaican Chicken Curry
- In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with crushed ginger, garlic, curry powder, chicken seasoning, turmeric, allspice berries, spring onions, thyme, rosemary, black pepper, and salt. Mix well and let it rest for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors blend
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and bell peppers, and sauté until they become soft
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of curry powder and sauté until it becomes fragrant. This step brings out the natural aroma of the curry powder
- Add the marinated chicken and cook for 3-5 minutes without disturbing
- Mix in sliced ginger, chopped garlic, scotch bonnet pepper, and thoroughly combine. Cover the pan with its lid and cook until the chicken releases its juices
- Once the chicken has released its juices, remove the lid and add potatoes, carrots, and salt. Mix well
- Pour in 1 cup of coconut milk, thyme and give it a good stir. Cover the pan again with its lid and cook the mixture for around 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked
- Open the lid, add fresh spring onions, give it a final stir, and then remove from heat. Your flavorful Jamaican Chicken Curry is now ready to be enjoyed
To Serve
- Serve this Jamaican Chicken Curry with options like white rice, basmati rice, rice, and peas, or roti for a delightful meal
Video
Notes
- Balancing Flavors: Pay attention to the quantities of spices and seasonings you're using. Adjust the amounts according to your taste preferences. Start with a little less and gradually add more as needed to avoid overpowering the dish
- Marinating Time: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes is important. This step lets the flavors penetrate the meat and makes the chicken more flavorful
- Sautéing Veggies: Sauté the onions and bell peppers until they become soft and slightly caramelized. This step contributes a sweet and savory foundation to the curry
- Curry Powder Blooming: When sautéing the curry powder, make sure it becomes fragrant but doesn't burn. This step brings out the full flavor of the spices
- Chicken Cooking: When cooking the marinated chicken, give it a few minutes without stirring to create a nice sear. This adds depth of flavor to the dish
- Aromatic Ingredients: The sliced ginger, chopped garlic, and scotch bonnet pepper add depth and heat to the curry. Adjust the quantity of scotch bonnet pepper based on your spice tolerance
- Liquid Release: Covering the pan while cooking the chicken helps trap moisture, leading to the release of natural chicken juices. This creates a flavorful base for the curry
- Adding Vegetables: Add the potatoes and carrots when the chicken has released its juices. These veggies will absorb the flavors of the curry as they cook
- Coconut Milk: Coconut milk adds richness and creaminess to the dish. Make sure to stir it well into the curry for even distribution
- Simmering Time: Allow the curry to simmer gently, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors meld together
- Adjustments: Taste the curry as you cook and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Remember that the final taste should be balanced and flavorful
Nutrition
FAQ
Yes, boneless chicken can certainly be used to prepare Jamaican Chicken Curry. While traditional recipes often use bone-in chicken for added flavor, boneless chicken can be a convenient and quicker option. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless chicken tends to cook faster than bone-in pieces.
A suitable alternative for Jamaican Curry Powder could be regular curry powder combined with a pinch of allspice and a touch of cayenne pepper or paprika for heat. This combination will help replicate the unique flavors found in Jamaican Curry Powder, even though it might not be an exact match. Adjust the amounts to your taste preference and recipe requirements.
Yes, you can use chicken broth as a substitute for coconut milk in the curry. Keep in mind that this substitution will alter the flavor and creaminess of the dish. While coconut milk adds a distinct richness and tropical flavor, chicken broth will bring a savory depth to the curry. Adjust seasonings accordingly to maintain the desired taste profile.
I hope you found the recipe enjoyable and I would appreciate hearing about your experience with it.
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to leave a comment and I will do my best to respond promptly. Thank you for reading and happy cooking!
Kameka
Typically coconut milk does not go in curry chicken.
Sangeetha Vel
Kameka, We understand your perspective. However, this variation is definitely worth a taste. Coconut and coconut milk are widely used in Thai and Indian cuisine with chicken curry, offering a unique flavor profile. We applied a similar approach to our curry chicken as well, and the results were delicious. Of course, feel free to skip it if it doesn't align with your preferences.