Description

Experience the bold and flavorful world of Jamaican cuisine with this traditional curry chicken recipe! Infused with vibrant spices and the fiery kick of Scotch bonnet pepper, this dish will transport you straight to the sun-soaked islands of Jamaica.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs bone-in chicken pieces (thighs or drumsticks preferred)
3 tbsp Jamaican curry powder
1 Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (adjust for heat preference)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp grated ginger
1 medium onion, chopped
2 scallions, sliced
2 medium potatoes, cubed
2 medium carrots, sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced
2 cups water (or 1 cup water + 1 cup coconut milk)
1 tsp pimento berries (allspice)
2 sprigs fresh thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp cooking oil

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Wash chicken pieces and pat dry. In a large bowl, season with 2 tbsp curry powder, garlic, ginger, salt, and a touch of chopped Scotch bonnet. Mix well and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for deeper flavor.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, scallions, and the remaining curry powder. Sauté until fragrant (about 2 minutes). Add Scotch bonnet pepper, thyme, and pimento berries.
Brown the Chicken: Add marinated chicken to the pot. Cook until lightly browned on all sides (about 5–7 minutes).
Simmer: Add potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers. Stir well, then pour in water or water and coconut milk. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and cover. Let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the curry sauce and adjust with salt, pepper, or additional curry powder if needed. Simmer uncovered for 5–10 more minutes to thicken the sauce, if desired.
Serve: Garnish with fresh thyme or scallions. Serve hot with rice and peas, white rice, or boiled dumplings.

Notes

1️⃣ Marination is Key: Marinating the chicken enhances the flavor, allowing the spices to penetrate deeply. For the best taste, marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is ideal.

2️⃣ Burn the Curry: When sautéing the curry powder in oil, make sure to “burn” it slightly. This step deepens the flavor, giving the dish its authentic Jamaican taste.

3️⃣ Control the Heat: Scotch bonnet peppers are spicy! Use gloves when handling them, and adjust the quantity or remove the seeds if you prefer a milder curry.

Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 40 min