Go Back

Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken – Bold Island Flavor

Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is a bold Caribbean dish made with tender chicken, coconut milk, and traditional spices.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Jamaican

Ingredients
  

Chicken

  • 3 –4 lbs chicken skin removed; drumsticks and thighs work best
  • 1 –2 tablespoons browning optional
  • 2 –3 tablespoons Jamaican green seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons Jamaican curry powder
  • 2 teaspoons all-purpose seasoning blend
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Spicy Jamaican Curry Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 14 oz can full-fat coconut milk
  • 2 medium russet potatoes peeled and cubed
  • 2 medium carrots peeled and chopped
  • 1 medium bell pepper chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 teaspoons fresh minced ginger
  • 1 –3 scotch bonnet peppers adjust to spice level
  • 2 green onions scallions, lightly crushed or chopped
  • 2 fresh thyme sprigs
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken stock
  • 2 ½ tablespoons Jamaican curry powder
  • 1 tablespoon Jamaican pepper sauce or favorite hot sauce
  • 1 teaspoon ground allspice
  • Sea salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Marinate the Chicken
  • In a large bowl, combine cleaned chicken with browning (if using), green seasoning, salt, all-purpose seasoning, smoked paprika, and curry powder. Mix thoroughly until evenly coated.
  • Transfer to a sealed bag or covered bowl and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight. Before cooking, allow the chicken to sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes.
  • Brown the Chicken
  • In a deep skillet or heavy pot over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Once hot, add brown sugar and stir until it dissolves and darkens slightly.
  • Add marinated chicken and sear on each side for 3–4 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside. This step enhances the rich color and flavor of Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken.
  • Burn the Curry Powder
  • In the same pot, add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Once heated, add the curry powder and stir continuously for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and slightly darkened. This traditional step deepens the authentic flavor.
  • Make the Curry Sauce
  • Add garlic, ginger, scotch bonnet peppers, green onions, carrots, and bell peppers. Sauté until fragrant and lightly softened.
  • Stir in allspice, salt, and black pepper.
  • Pour in coconut milk, chicken stock, and pepper sauce. Bring to a gentle boil.
  • Return the browned chicken to the pot. Add cubed potatoes, thyme sprigs, and additional scallions if desired. Stir well.
  • Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20–25 minutes until chicken is tender and sauce thickens to a rich gravy consistency. Stir occasionally.
  • Remove thyme sprigs before serving.
  • Serve hot with rice and peas, white rice, or steamed vegetables.

Notes

  • You can substitute habanero peppers for scotch bonnet.