Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

why make this recipe

This dish is warm, full of spice, and easy to cook. It brings real Jamaican flavor to your table. It uses simple ingredients and works for weeknights or guests.

introduction

Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is a rich, spicy chicken stew with curry and coconut milk. It tastes bold and comforting. If you want a cold variation to try later, check a related Jamaican-style curry chicken salad for a different way to enjoy the flavors.

how to make Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Marinate the chicken with curry powder, garlic, and salt. Brown the chicken in hot oil. Add onions, hot peppers, and chicken stock. Let it simmer. Stir in coconut milk and cook until the sauce thickens and the chicken is tender. Finish with fresh cilantro.

Ingredients :

2 lbs chicken, cut into pieces
2 tablespoons curry powder
1 onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 hot peppers (scotch bonnet or habanero), chopped
1 cup chicken stock
1 can coconut milk
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Directions :

1. In a large bowl, combine chicken pieces with curry powder, garlic, and salt. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent.
3. Add marinated chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Stir in chopped hot peppers and chicken stock. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add coconut milk and cook for 20-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens.
6. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice.

how to serve Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Serve hot over steamed white rice or rice and peas. You can also serve with boiled yams or fried plantain. Add a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad.

how to store Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Cool the curry to room temperature within two hours. Put it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

• Use bone-in chicken for more flavor.
• Brown the chicken well for good color and taste.
• Taste and adjust salt and heat at the end.
• If the sauce is too thin, simmer uncovered a bit longer.
• If it is too thick, add a little more chicken stock.

variation (if any)

• Make it milder by using fewer hot peppers or removing seeds.
• Add potatoes or carrots for a heartier stew.
• Use light coconut milk for a lighter dish.
• Try boneless chicken for faster cooking.

FAQs

Q: Can I use boneless chicken?
A: Yes. Boneless chicken cooks faster. Reduce simmer time so it does not dry out.

Q: How spicy is this dish?
A: It can be very spicy if you use scotch bonnet or habanero. Use fewer peppers or remove seeds to make it mild.

Q: Can I skip the coconut milk?
A: Yes, but coconut milk adds creaminess. If you skip it, add extra chicken stock and simmer until the sauce reduces.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of water or stock if it is thick. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring between.

Q: Can I prepare this ahead?
A: Yes. Marinate the chicken a few hours or overnight. The flavors improve after short refrigeration.

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