Creamy Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Jamaican Curry Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with warm, aromatic spices. This simple recipe brings the taste of the Caribbean to your kitchen, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds chicken pieces (thighs or drumsticks)
• 2 tablespoons Jamaican curry powder
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups water or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, season the chicken pieces with curry powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly and let it marinate for at least 20 minutes.
2. Step 2: Heat the cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
3. Step 3: Add the seasoned chicken to the pot and brown on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
4. Step 4: Pour in the water or chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Step 5: Add the cubed potatoes to the pot and continue simmering, covered, for another 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
6. Step 6: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with rice or your favorite side dish.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add garlic and Scotch bonnet pepper when sautéing the onions, but handle peppers with care.
• You can substitute sweet potatoes or carrots for a different twist on the vegetables.
• Using coconut milk instead of water adds richness and a subtle sweetness to the curry sauce.

Storage

Store leftover curry chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until steaming hot. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs or drumsticks?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they cook faster and can dry out easily. Adjust cooking time accordingly and monitor closely to keep the meat tender.

Is Jamaican curry powder spicy?

Jamaican curry powder typically has a mild to moderate spice level with a unique blend of spices like turmeric, coriander, and allspice. The heat depends on the brand, so choose one that suits your spice preference.

Creamy Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 609 reviews

This authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken recipe features tender chicken simmered in a flavorful curry sauce with onions and potatoes. A staple in Jamaican cuisine, this dish offers a deliciously comforting meal with vibrant spices that bring warmth and depth to the palate.

• Author: Stella
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Jamaican

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 2 lbs chicken pieces (bone-in, skin-on for best flavor)

Spices and Seasonings

• 2 tablespoons Jamaican curry powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Vegetables

• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

Additional Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup water or chicken broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (optional, whole for flavor without heat)
• 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)

Instructions

1. Season the chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the curry powder, salt, black pepper, and half of the chopped onions. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the remaining onions, minced garlic, and thyme. Cook until onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chicken: Place the seasoned chicken into the pot. Brown the chicken on all sides for 5-7 minutes to develop flavor and seal in the juices.
4. Simmer with vegetables: Add the diced potatoes, Scotch bonnet pepper (keep whole to control heat), and pour in the water or broth. Stir gently to combine, cover the pot with a lid, and reduce heat to low. Let the mixture simmer gently for 35-45 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally and add extra water if needed to prevent drying out.
5. Finish and serve: Once cooked, remove the Scotch bonnet pepper, adjust seasoning to taste, and serve hot with steamed rice or traditional Jamaican side dishes.

Notes

• For a thicker sauce, you can mash some of the potatoes during cooking.
• Adjust the amount of Scotch bonnet pepper based on your heat preference or omit for a milder curry.
• Using bone-in chicken adds more flavor and retains moisture better during simmering.
• This curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

Keywords: Jamaican curry chicken, Caribbean curry, chicken curry, Caribbean cuisine, slow simmered chicken, potato curry