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Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe
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★★★★★

5.3 from 26 reviews

This authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken recipe features tender bone-in chicken pieces marinated in rich Jamaican curry powder and slow-cooked with aromatic spices, coconut milk, and fresh vegetables. This flavorful and hearty dish embodies the vibrant flavors of Jamaican cuisine, perfect for a comforting meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 2 pounds bone-in chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks)
  • 3 tablespoons Jamaican curry powder
  • Salt to taste (approximately 1 teaspoon)

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 scallions, chopped
  • 1 large tomato, diced
  • 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (optional)

Liquids

  • 1 can (13 ounces) coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for sautéing)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, season the bone-in chicken pieces with salt and 3 tablespoons of Jamaican curry powder. Mix thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes to release their fragrant aromas.
  3. Brown the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pot and brown them on all sides. This step should take about 7 minutes and helps to seal in the flavors and enhance the dish’s depth.
  4. Add Vegetables and Coconut Milk: Stir in the sliced red bell pepper, chopped scallions, and diced tomato into the pot with the chicken. Pour in the entire can of coconut milk, and add the Scotch bonnet pepper if using for heat. Stir everything together to combine.
  5. Simmer the Curry: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the curry simmer gently for 25 to 30 minutes. Cook until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to meld the flavors.
  6. Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the curry and adjust salt or curry powder as needed. Remove the Scotch bonnet pepper before serving to avoid excessive heat. Serve hot with rice, steamed vegetables, or traditional Jamaican side dishes.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken longer (up to overnight) will deepen the flavor.
  • The Scotch bonnet pepper is very spicy; remove before serving for milder heat.
  • Bone-in chicken helps retain moisture and adds richness to the curry.
  • Use fresh Jamaican curry powder for the most authentic flavor.
  • Leftovers taste great and can be stored refrigerated for 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: Jamaican curry chicken, Caribbean chicken curry, authentic Jamaican recipes, coconut milk chicken curry, spicy chicken curry

Find it online: https://leofoster.com/authentic-jamaican-curry-chicken-recipe/