Name: Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe
Prep time: PT-492001H34M27S
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: PT-492001H34M27S
Cuisine: Jamaican
Ingredients: 3–4 chicken drumsticks (skin-on or skinless); 2 Tbsp Jamaican curry powder; 1 tsp sea salt; 1–2 tsp all-purpose seasoning or Flavo Rice (optional); 1 ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1–2 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp dried parsley; ½ tsp smoked paprika; 2 Tbsp browning (optional, for deeper color and flavor); 2 Tbsp olive oil; 14 oz (1 can) full-fat coconut milk; 2 russet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 2 carrots, peeled and chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 3–4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 Tbsp fresh ginger, minced; 2 green onions, chopped; 1–2 sprigs fresh thyme; 8 Tbsp low-sodium chicken stock; 2–3 Scotch bonnet peppers (or habaneros for milder heat); 1 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 3 Tbsp Jamaican curry powder; 1 Tbsp Jamaican hot sauce (or your favorite brand); 1 tsp ground allspice; 1 tsp sea salt; 1 tsp black pepper

Jump to Recipe

Get ready to dive into a flavor explosion with this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe. This dish masterfully combines tender chicken simmered in a spicy, aromatic curry sauce that boasts the perfect harmony of heat and creaminess, thanks to Scotch bonnet peppers and coconut milk. It’s a beloved Caribbean classic that brings warmth to the soul and a party of spices to your taste buds, making it a must-try for anyone craving an unforgettable comfort meal.

The image shows a gray pot filled with a thick curry that has small pieces of chicken in a orange-yellow sauce with green herbs sprinkled on top. The pot is placed on a dark wooden table with a white marbled textured cloth next to it. The lighting is soft, highlighting the creamy texture of the curry and the fresh green herbs. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe is simple but essential, coming together to create layers of vibrant flavor, texture, and color that define the best Jamaican curry chicken. From the warming turmeric to the fiery Scotch bonnet pepper, each element plays a pivotal role in making this dish stand out.

Chicken drumsticks: Skin-on or skinless, they offer juicy, tender meat essential for the curry’s heart.
Jamaican curry powder: The star spice blend that sets the authentic flavor foundation.
Sea salt: Enhances all the natural flavors throughout the dish.
All-purpose seasoning or Flavo Rice (optional): Adds extra depth and complexity.
Black pepper: Provides a subtle heat to balance the spices.
Garlic and onion powders: Create a savory backbone to the marinade.
Dried parsley: Contributes a fresh herbaceous note.
Smoked paprika: Brings a hint of smoky warmth.
Browning (optional): Used to deepen color and impart rich flavor.
Olive oil: The fat that helps bloom the spices and sauté vegetables.
Full-fat coconut milk: Provides creamy richness and cools the heat.
Russet potatoes and carrots: Add hearty texture and natural sweetness.
Bell pepper: Brings color and a mild crunch.
Garlic cloves and fresh ginger: Fresh aromatics that brighten and invigorate the sauce.
Green onions: Give a sharp, fresh flavor lift.
Fresh thyme sprigs: Infuse an earthy, woodsy aroma.
Low-sodium chicken stock: Builds a savory, flavorful base for simmering.
Scotch bonnet peppers: Deliver signature Jamaican heat — can swap for habaneros if desired.
Low-sodium soy sauce: Adds a complex umami dimension.
Jamaican hot sauce: Elevates the spice level and authentic tang.
Ground allspice: A warm, sweet spice that rounds out the curry’s flavor profile.

How to Make Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by cleaning and patting dry your chicken drumsticks. In a large bowl, combine the chicken with sea salt, black pepper, browning (if using), garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried parsley, all-purpose seasoning if you want, and the Jamaican curry powder. Toss everything until each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least three hours, but ideally overnight for that maximum infusion of flavor. Before cooking, let the chicken rest at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes; this helps it cook evenly and absorb the flavors beautifully.

Step 2: Burn the Curry Powder

To truly bring out the curry powder’s deepest aroma and rich flavor, heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the curry powder and stir it for 2 to 3 minutes until you notice it darkening slightly and releasing a fragrant, mouthwatering aroma. This crucial step transforms the curry from ordinary to extraordinary.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Next, toss in minced garlic, freshly grated ginger, the fiery Scotch bonnet peppers, chopped green onions, and bell peppers. Sauté everything just until it’s fragrant and the edges start to take on a gentle golden hue. Then, sprinkle in the ground allspice, a pinch of nutmeg if you like (optional), some salt, and black pepper. This combination forms a deeply layered foundation that makes every bite sing.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Now it’s time to add your beautifully marinated chicken to the pot. Sear each piece for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, allowing the chicken to get that gorgeous, caramelized brown crust. This searing step locks in juices and intensifies the meat’s flavor.

Step 5: Simmer the Curry

Pour in soy sauce, chicken stock, your favorite Jamaican hot sauce, and luscious coconut milk. Bring the whole pan to a gentle boil, then add diced potatoes, chopped carrots, and fresh thyme sprigs. Turn the heat down to low and let everything simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring now and then. This slow cooking tenderizes the chicken perfectly and thickens the sauce into a rich, comforting curry.

Step 6: Serve

When the curry is ready, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This gives the flavors time to meld perfectly before plating.

How to Serve Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley or some red pepper flakes adds a burst of color and accentuates the dish’s spicy warmth. These little touches bring a fresh, vibrant finish that makes the curry look as delightful as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This curry chicken is a star that pairs beautifully with classic Caribbean sides like steamed white rice, traditional rice and peas, or even a simple mound of fluffy boiled green bananas. These sides balance out the rich curry sauce and soak up every bit of that delicious gravy.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the curry chicken in mini cast iron skillets or rustic bowls to keep it warm longer at the table. You can also serve it over coconut rice, or alongside fried plantains for an extra layer of sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the heat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover curry chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so leftovers often taste even better the next day.

Freezing

This recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to revive the sauce’s creaminess without drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of water or chicken stock can refresh the texture if the sauce has thickened too much in storage.

FAQs

What makes Jamaican curry chicken different from Indian curry?

Jamaican curry chicken uses unique spices like Jamaican curry powder, Scotch bonnet peppers for authentic heat, and includes ingredients like coconut milk and allspice, which create a deeper, earthier flavor profile distinct from the typically creamier or more tomato-based sauces of Indian curry.

Can I use other parts of chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! While drumsticks are traditional for their flavor and juiciness, you can use thighs or even boneless chicken pieces. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is cooked through but still tender.

How hot is this dish really?

The heat primarily comes from Scotch bonnet peppers, which are quite spicy. You can reduce the number of peppers or substitute with habaneros for a milder kick, making it accessible for those with lower spice tolerance.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes! All the core ingredients in this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure your chicken stock and any seasoning blends you use do not contain gluten additives for a safe gluten-free meal.

Can I make this curry in advance and reheat it?

Definitely! Jamaican curry chicken actually benefits from sitting overnight as it allows the spices to meld and intensify. Reheat gently and enjoy as leftovers; the flavors are even more robust the next day.

Final Thoughts

This Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a joyous celebration of Caribbean heritage and flavors you can easily recreate at home. With its perfectly balanced spices, rich sauce, and tender chicken, it’s a dish that will warm your heart and delight your palate. Don’t hesitate to make this your new favorite recipe and share it with loved ones—you’ll be so glad you did!