Name: Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 3 h 55 min
Cuisine: Jamaican
Ingredients: 3-4 lbs. organic chicken, skin removed (Drumsticks + Thigh pieces work great!); 1-2 Tbsps browning, optional; 2-3 Tbsps Jamaican Green Seasoning; 2 Tbsps Jamaican curry powder; 2 tsps On Everything All-Purpose Blend; 1 tsp sea salt; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 4 Tbsps extra virgin olive oil; 2 Tbsps organic 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, cored and chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tsps minced fresh ginger (or 1/2 tsp ground ginger); 1-3 scotch bonnet peppers (adjust to spice preference; habanero optional); 2 green onions, lightly crushed or chopped (scallions); 2 fresh thyme sprigs; 1 cup organic chicken stock, low-sodium (or chicken bone broth); 2 1/2 Tbsps Jamaican curry powder; 1 Tbsp Jamaican pepper sauce; 1 tsp ground allspice; Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 44 reviews

If you have a craving for something vibrant, fragrant, and packed with soul, then this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need in your kitchen rotation. This dish masterfully blends lively spices with tender, juicy chicken pieces simmered in a luxuriously rich coconut milk sauce. Every bite bursts with the warmth of Jamaican curry powder, the zing of scotch bonnet peppers, and the fresh brightness of herbs and vegetables, delivering an irresistible taste of the Caribbean. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing friends, this recipe promises a comforting, flavorful experience that’s true to its roots.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a wooden cutting board filled with colorful chopped vegetables arranged in layers. On the left side, there are yellow potato chunks, next to them a layer of sliced orange carrots, followed by finely chopped purple onions. Above the onions, there are two small whole peppers, one green and one red. To the right, a layer of bright red bell pepper strips stands out, with three long green onions placed on top diagonally from bottom left to top right. Three small sprigs of fresh thyme lie near the top left above the carrots and onions. A large steel knife with a wooden handle rests on the right side of the board, partially on the red peppers and with small pieces of green chili near the blade's tip. The cutting board sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe plays a vital role in creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the earthy potatoes to the spicy scotch bonnet peppers, these essentials come together to make this dish truly unforgettable.

3-4 lbs. organic chicken, skin removed: Drumsticks and thigh pieces work great for moist, flavorful meat.
1-2 tablespoons browning (optional): Adds a beautiful color to your curry without affecting flavor significantly.
2-3 tablespoons Jamaican Green Seasoning: A bright blend of herbs and spices that instantly lifts the dish.
2 tablespoons Jamaican curry powder: The essential spice blend that defines the curry’s authentic taste.
2 teaspoons On Everything All-Purpose Blend: Adds a subtle savory depth to the marinade.
1 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives a gentle smoky undertone.
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Used both for marinating and cooking for richness.
2 tablespoons organic brown sugar: Balances spice with a touch of sweetness.
1 (14 oz.) can full-fat coconut milk: Makes the curry sauce creamy and smooth.
2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed: Add heartiness and soak up the flavorful sauce.
2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped: Provide color and natural sweetness.
1 medium bell pepper, cored and chopped: Adds vibrant color and crunch.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with fragrant aroma and flavor.
2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger: A fresh zing that brightens the sauce (or substitute 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger).
1-3 scotch bonnet peppers: Control the heat level—authentic spicy kick or mild warmth.
2 green onions, lightly crushed or chopped: Also called scallions; add freshness and mild sharpness.
2 fresh thyme sprigs: Classic herb for that earthy, woody note.
1 cup organic chicken stock, low-sodium: Deepens the flavor base for the curry sauce.
2 1/2 tablespoons Jamaican curry powder: Additional curry added during cooking intensifies the dish’s signature taste.
1 tablespoon Jamaican pepper sauce: Boosts aroma and spiciness.
1 teaspoon ground allspice: Adds warmth and complexity.
Sea salt and black pepper, to taste: Final seasoning adjusts balance perfectly.

How to Make Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by thoroughly coating your chicken pieces with browning (if using), Jamaican Green Seasoning, curry powder, salt, smoked paprika, and the all-purpose blend. This marinade doesn’t just season the chicken; it tenderizes and infuses it deeply with that distinct Jamaican flavor. Let the chicken rest in the fridge for at least three hours—overnight is even better! This is the secret to achieving that succulent, flavor-packed bite every time.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Next, heat olive oil in a skillet and stir in brown sugar until it melts into a glossy syrup. This step caramelizes the chicken’s surface for a stunning golden-brown finish and adds a subtle sweetness to balance the spice. Cook each chicken piece for about 3-4 minutes per side until nicely seared, then set them aside. This layered cooking approach is a game changer for texture and depth of flavor.

Step 3: Burn the Curry Powder

Here’s a traditional technique that truly elevates this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe: “burning” the curry powder. Heat olive oil in the skillet again, then add the curry powder, stirring it until it darkens and releases an amazing earthy aroma. This step unlocks the full potential of the spices, creating the rich, complex character that Jamaican curry is famous for.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

To the burnt curry base, add garlic, ginger, scotch bonnet peppers, green onions, carrots, and bell peppers. Sauté until fragrant and golden, then toss in the allspice, salt, and black pepper. Pour in coconut milk, chicken stock, and pepper sauce, stirring everything into a luscious sauce. Bring it all to a boil to meld the flavors before adding the browned chicken, potatoes, green onions, and thyme. Simmer gently for 20-25 minutes until the sauce thickens and the chicken becomes perfectly tender. Stir occasionally to marry every element.

How to Serve Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

A round white pot filled with a rich brown stew shows multiple large chicken drumsticks and thighs covered in thick, herb-speckled sauce. The stew has chunky yellow and orange vegetables scattered throughout, along with red pepper pieces adding contrast. The white pot has two handles, and a brown wooden spoon rests on the right side inside the pot. Around the pot, there is a white marbled wooden surface, a red cloth near the bottom right, some green herbs, and small whole green and red peppers adding a fresh touch. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finish your dish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped scallions or a dash of red pepper flakes to add a pop of color and a mild extra kick. Garnishes aren’t just pretty; they elevate the aroma and offer a fresh contrast to the rich curry sauce.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with classic white rice or coconut rice to soak up every bit of that delicious gravy. For a lighter option, steamed vegetables or sautéed greens bring balance, while some traditional Jamaican fried dumplings or festival bread add a wonderful textural contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve the curry in a large, rustic bowl surrounded by colorful sides and vibrant garnishes to make the experience feel festive. Wrapping portions in banana leaves or serving in hollowed-out bread bowls can be a fun twist that pays homage to Caribbean presentation styles. The key is to showcase those beautiful colors and rich curry liquid invitingly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually mellow and deepen overnight, making it even tastier when reheated.

Freezing

This curry freezes exceptionally well. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture and flavor retention.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen it. Microwave reheating works too but be sure to cover the dish to maintain moisture evenly.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! While drumsticks and thighs are preferred for their flavor and juiciness, you can use bone-in breasts or even boneless pieces, just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure tenderness.

Is it necessary to burn the curry powder?

For authentic flavor, yes! Burning the curry powder in oil intensifies its aroma and deepens the taste, which is key to true Jamaican curry chicken.

What if I can’t find Jamaican Green Seasoning?

Green seasoning is a vibrant herb-spice blend, but if it’s unavailable, you can make a substitute by blending scallions, thyme, garlic, ginger, and Scotch bonnet or habanero peppers.

How spicy is this curry?

That depends on how many Scotch bonnet peppers you include. Start with one if you prefer mild heat, or add more to suit your spice tolerance. The heat balances beautifully with the sweetness of coconut milk and brown sugar.

Can this recipe be made vegan?

Definitely! Replace the chicken with firm tofu, chickpeas, or hearty vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a delicious vegan twist on this classic.

Final Thoughts

This Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe is a true celebration of Caribbean flavors that’s sure to bring warmth and happiness to your dining table. Once you try making it at home, you’ll see why it’s a beloved classic that everyone raves about. So grab those spices, get cooking, and enjoy this soulful, comforting dish with friends and family—you’re going to love every bite!

Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need