Jamaican Curry Chicken

Get ready to take your taste buds on a Caribbean adventure with Jamaican Curry Chicken. The vibrant flavors of this dish will transport you to the sunny beaches of Jamaica with just one bite. The combination of earthy curry spices, fiery scotch bonnet peppers, and creamy coconut milk creates a harmonious symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.

One thing that sets Jamaican Curry Chicken apart is the unique blend of spices used in Jamaican curry powder. The fragrant mixture usually includes coriander, cumin, turmeric, and fenugreek, among other spices, creating a bold and aromatic seasoning that infuses the chicken with layers of flavor. As the curry simmers and the chicken becomes tender, the spices meld together, creating a rich and complex sauce that is simply irresistible.

The addition of scotch bonnet peppers brings a kick of heat to the dish, adding a fiery element that lingers on the palate. Don’t be intimidated by their heat – when used in moderation, scotch bonnet peppers add a depth of flavor and just the right amount of spice to complement the curry powder. If you prefer a milder version, you can remove the seeds and membranes of the peppers before adding them to the pot.

To balance out the heat of the spices, creamy coconut milk is added to the curry, creating a luscious and velvety sauce that coats each piece of chicken. The coconut milk not only adds a hint of sweetness but also helps to mellow out the fiery flavors, resulting in a perfectly balanced dish that is a true delight to savor.

Jamaican Curry Chicken is a dish that brings people together, whether it’s served at a family dinner or a festive gathering. The rich aromas wafting from the pot as the chicken simmers will draw everyone to the table, eager to dig in and enjoy this flavorful and satisfying meal. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the magic of Jamaican Curry Chicken in your own kitchen.

Key Ingredients in Jamaican Curry Chicken

When it comes to creating the bold and flavorful Jamaican Curry Chicken, the key lies in the carefully selected ingredients that come together to create a symphony of tastes. From the fragrant curry powder to the fiery scotch bonnet peppers, each component plays a crucial role in ensuring that this dish is a true delight to the senses.

• Curry Powder: A fragrant blend of spices including coriander, cumin, turmeric, and fenugreek, curry powder is the star of this dish, infusing the chicken with layers of aromatic flavors.
• Allspice: Adding warmth and depth to the curry, allspice brings a unique flavor that complements the other spices in the dish.
• Ginger: With its zesty and slightly spicy flavor, grated ginger adds a refreshing kick to the curry, balancing out the richness of the coconut milk.
• Garlic: Minced garlic lends its pungent aroma and savory taste to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Onion: Chopped onion not only provides a sweet undertone to the curry but also adds texture and depth to the sauce.
• Bell Pepper: Offering a pop of color and a touch of sweetness, chopped bell pepper brings a fresh and vibrant element to the dish.
• Tomatoes: Chopped tomatoes contribute a rich and tangy flavor, helping to create a well-rounded and savory sauce for the chicken.
• Scotch Bonnet Pepper: Infusing the dish with fiery heat, chopped scotch bonnet pepper adds a spicy kick that elevates the flavor profile of the curry.
• Coconut Milk: Creamy and luscious, coconut milk not only adds a hint of sweetness but also helps to mellow out the spicy flavors, creating a velvety sauce that coats the chicken.
• Chicken Broth: Providing a savory base for the curry, chicken broth enhances the depth of flavors while keeping the chicken moist and tender.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the aromatics, olive oil adds a rich and fruity flavor to the dish.
• Brown Sugar: Balancing out the savory and spicy flavors, brown sugar brings a touch of sweetness that enhances the overall taste of the curry.
• Thyme: With its earthy and aromatic notes, thyme imparts a subtle freshness to the dish, complementing the bold flavors of the spices.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning the curry, salt and black pepper help to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Soy Sauce: Adding a savory umami depth to the curry, soy sauce enhances the overall richness of the dish.
• Vinegar: Providing a tangy and acidic note, vinegar brightens up the flavors of the curry, adding a refreshing contrast.
• Lime: With its citrusy tang, lime juice adds a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the coconut milk.
• Carrots: Sliced carrots not only provide a sweet and earthy flavor but also add a vibrant pop of color to the dish.
• Paprika: Offering a mild heat and a smoky undertone, paprika enhances the overall depth of flavors in the curry.
• Cinnamon: Adding a hint of warm sweetness, cinnamon brings a subtle spiced flavor that complements the other spices in the dish.

How to Make Jamaican Curry Chicken

Serving Suggestions for Jamaican Curry Chicken

1. Over a Bed of Rice: The classic way to enjoy Jamaican Curry Chicken is with a generous serving of steamed white or brown rice. The rice soaks up all the rich, aromatic sauce, creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture. For an extra touch, you can toss the rice with a little chopped cilantro or parsley for some freshness.

2. With Warm Roti: If you’re craving something to scoop up that creamy curry sauce, warm roti bread is your best friend. Soft, flaky, and perfect for mopping up every last drop of that luscious sauce. It’s like having your own personal scoopable companion to the dish!

3. With A Side of Fried Plantains: For a sweet and savory combo that will have everyone reaching for seconds, serve your curry chicken alongside some golden, crispy fried plantains. The natural sweetness of the plantains complements the spicy heat of the curry, adding another layer of flavor to the meal. Trust me, it’s the perfect match!

What’s your favorite way to enjoy this dish? Let me know – I’m always curious to hear how everyone enjoys their curry!

How to Store Jamaican Curry Chicken

If you happen to have leftovers of this flavorful Jamaican Curry Chicken (lucky you!), storing it properly is key to preserving that rich, aromatic goodness. The best way to keep your curry chicken fresh is to let it cool to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. This helps prevent any moisture from collecting and keeps the curry from getting soggy. Once cooled, store the curry chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the curry chicken. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag, squeezing out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. You might find the flavors even deepen as it sits – it’s like the curry has had time to marinate a little longer!

If you’re reheating the dish, always do so slowly over low heat to preserve that smooth, velvety sauce. You can add a little water or extra coconut milk to keep the sauce from thickening too much as it warms up.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve just embarked on a culinary journey to the tropical flavors of Jamaica with the tantalizing Jamaican Curry Chicken recipe. From the vibrant blend of spices to the creamy coconut milk and fiery scotch bonnet peppers, this dish captures the essence of Caribbean cuisine in every bite.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook looking to spice up your repertoire or a newbie eager to explore new flavors, Jamaican Curry Chicken is a delightful dish that promises to satisfy your cravings and transport you to a sun-soaked beach with its exotic aromas and rich flavors.

So, gather your ingredients, don your apron, and get ready to create a feast that will impress your family and friends. Whether you choose to serve it over rice, with warm roti, or alongside fried plantains, this dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

If you decide to whip up a batch of Jamaican Curry Chicken, I’d love to hear about your experience! Feel free to share your comments, questions, or any feedback you may have. And remember, you can always print out this recipe to keep it handy for your next cooking adventure.

Happy cooking and bon appétit!

Print Recipe

Jamaican Curry Chicken

Author: Maria Bennet Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 1 hr Rest Time 10 mins Total Time 1 hr 30 mins

Calories: 380

Description

Transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Jamaica with our Jamaican Curry Chicken. Succulent chicken simmered in a fragrant curry sauce, infused with island spices. A rich and hearty dish that will have you coming back for more!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 3 pounds chicken, cut into pieces

• 2 tablespoons curry powder

• 1 teaspoon allspice

• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated

• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 1 bell pepper, chopped

• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped

• 1 scotch bonnet pepper, chopped

• 2 cups coconut milk

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• 2 sprigs thyme

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon black pepper

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon vinegar

• 1 lime, juiced

• 2 medium carrots, sliced

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon paprika

• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the curry powder, allspice, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar to create a spice blend.
3. Season the chicken pieces with the spice blend, ensuring they are well coated.
4. In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
5. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and brown them on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
6. In the same pot, add the onion, bell pepper, and scotch bonnet pepper. Saute until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
7. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and continue to cook for another 2 minutes.
8. Add the chicken back to the pot and pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth.
9. Stir in the thyme sprigs, salt, black pepper, soy sauce, vinegar, lime juice, carrots, paprika, and cinnamon.
10. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the pot, and place it in the preheated oven.
11. Let it bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
12. Serve the Jamaican curry chicken hot over rice or with some roti bread. Enjoy!

Note

• Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet pepper to control the spiciness of the dish.
• For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice blend overnight before cooking.
• Substitute bone-in chicken pieces for boneless for more flavor in the dish.
• Add additional vegetables like potatoes or bell peppers for more texture and flavor.
• Make sure to check the chicken periodically while baking to prevent it from drying out.

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