Jamaican curry chicken is a beloved Caribbean dish known for its rich, spicy, and aromatic flavors. If you’ve ever wondered how to make this delicious meal at home, you’re in the right place! This article will walk you through the process of making authentic Jamaican curry chicken with easy-to-follow steps and tips, so you can enjoy this vibrant dish anytime.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Jamaican Curry Chicken
Before we dive into the cooking, let’s gather the essential ingredients that give Jamaican curry chicken its signature taste:
– Chicken: About 3 pounds of chicken pieces (leg and thigh quarters or boneless thighs work well)
– Jamaican curry powder: 2 tablespoons (the star spice)
– All-purpose or chicken seasoning: 1-2 tablespoons
– Allspice (pimento berries): 1 teaspoon
– Dried thyme or fresh sprigs: 1 teaspoon or a few sprigs
– Turmeric: 1 teaspoon (optional, for color)
– Salt and black pepper: To taste
– Vegetables: 1 medium onion (chopped), 1 large bell pepper (chopped), 1 large carrot (chopped), 1 pound yellow potatoes (diced)
– Garlic and ginger: 4 cloves garlic (chopped), 2 tablespoons fresh ginger (chopped or grated)
– Scotch bonnet pepper: 1, finely chopped (optional, for heat)
– Cooking oil: 2-3 tablespoons (olive oil or vegetable oil)
– Liquids: 1 cup coconut milk or chicken broth (or water as an alternative)
– Optional garnishes: Fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, hot sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Jamaican Curry Chicken
1. Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by washing the chicken with a bit of vinegar or citrus juice to clean it, then pat dry. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces if not already done. In a large bowl, rub the chicken pieces with Jamaican curry powder, all-purpose seasoning, allspice, dried thyme, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
2. Cook the Aromatics and “Burn the Curry”
Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell peppers, cooking them for about 5 minutes until softened. Then add garlic, ginger, green onions, and the remaining curry powder. Cook this mixture for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. This process is called “burning the curry,” which means cooking the curry powder in oil to release its full flavor and vibrant yellow color without actually burning it.
3. Brown the Chicken
Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pot. Cook for about 10 minutes, turning the pieces to brown all sides. This step adds depth to the flavor and locks in the juices.
4. Add Vegetables and Liquids
Stir in the diced potatoes and carrots, then pour in the coconut milk or chicken broth. If you want a richer curry, coconut milk is a great choice; otherwise, chicken broth or water works fine. Add a few sprigs of fresh thyme for an authentic touch. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and hot sauce if you like it spicy.
5. Simmer Until Tender
Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let the curry simmer gently for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). The vegetables should be soft, and the sauce thickened into a flavorful curry gravy.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once done, garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Jamaican curry chicken is traditionally served with white rice or rice and peas, making a hearty and satisfying meal.
Tips for the Best Jamaican Curry Chicken
– Marinate longer for deeper flavor: If time allows, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight.
– Control the heat: Scotch bonnet peppers add authentic heat, but you can reduce or omit them if you prefer milder curry.
– “Burning the curry” is key: Don’t skip this step; it transforms the curry powder’s raw taste into a rich, fragrant base.
– Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme and scallions elevate the dish’s aroma and flavor.
– Adjust liquids carefully: Add coconut milk or broth gradually to get the right curry consistency.
Jamaican curry chicken is a perfect dish to bring warmth and spice to your dinner table. With its bold flavors and comforting textures, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of Jamaica right at home!
Ready to cook? Gather your ingredients and start your flavorful journey with Jamaican curry chicken today!