Introduction
Discover the vibrant and aromatic world of Jamaican cuisine with this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken recipe. This dish brings together tender chicken, spices, and creamy coconut milk to create a delightful meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 Tbsp Jamaican curry powder
- 1 tsp allspice
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 large potato, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers, whole (adjust for spice)
- 1 can coconut milk (13.5 oz)
- 3-4 cups water or chicken broth
- 2 Tbsp vegetable oil
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 4-6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, season the chicken pieces with Jamaican curry powder, allspice, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well to ensure the chicken is coated thoroughly.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, garlic, and ginger, sautéing until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the pot and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the diced potato and bell pepper, followed by the whole Scotch bonnet peppers.
- Pour in the coconut milk and enough water or chicken broth to cover the chicken. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 30-40 minutes until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Remove the Scotch bonnet peppers before serving.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and serve with rice or roti.
Notes or Tips
- Adjust the number of Scotch bonnet peppers based on your spice preference.
- For a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Pair with steamed rice or freshly made roti for a complete meal.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Cooking Techniques
Achieving the perfect balance of flavors in this dish relies on the technique of seasoning and browning the chicken before adding the vegetables. Sautéing the aromatics creates a fragrant base that elevates the overall taste of the curry.
FAQ
- Can I use boneless chicken?
- Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
- What can I substitute for Scotch bonnet peppers?
- Habanero peppers can be used, but they’ll also add significant heat. Use with caution.
- Is this dish gluten-free?
- Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free.
Conclusion
Embrace the flavors of the Caribbean with this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken. Whether you’re enjoying it with family or sharing it with friends, this dish is bound to bring smiles and add a bit of island warmth to your table. Enjoy!