Description
Looking for a comforting, bold, and flavorful dinner idea? This Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken delivers everything you want in an easy dinner — tender, juicy chicken simmered in a rich, spiced curry gravy with hearty potatoes. It’s a classic Caribbean dish that’s perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or when you want to impress your guests. Whether you’re after quick dinner recipes, easy food ideas, or something to spice up your list of healthy comfort meals, this Jamaican curry is a winner. Serve it with rice, roti, or fried plantains and you’ve got a satisfying feast on your table.
Ingredients
2 lbs chicken (bone-in drumsticks or thighs)
2 tablespoons Jamaican curry powder
2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 scotch bonnet pepper (whole or pierced)
4 sprigs thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
6 pimento seeds (allspice berries)
2 scallions, chopped
2 tablespoons vegetable or coconut oil
2 cups water or chicken stock
1 ½ teaspoons salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Wash and pat dry the chicken. Season with salt, black pepper, 1 tablespoon curry powder, garlic, ginger, and thyme. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of curry powder and stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken and sear on all sides until golden brown.
4. Add onion, scallions, thyme, and pimento seeds. Cook until onions are soft and slightly caramelized, about 5–7 minutes.
5. Add chopped potatoes and the whole scotch bonnet pepper. Stir to combine with the curry mixture.
6. Pour in water or chicken stock to cover chicken halfway. Bring to a boil, then lower heat, cover, and simmer for 30–40 minutes.
7. Uncover during the last 10 minutes to allow the curry to reduce and thicken. Adjust seasoning to taste.
8. Serve hot with rice, roti, or your favorite side.
Notes
Marinating the chicken overnight makes a big difference in depth of flavor.
If you prefer a creamy curry, stir in ½ cup coconut milk during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Don’t burst the scotch bonnet unless you want intense heat — leave it whole for a milder version.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Jamaican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 1/6th of total recipe)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Jamaican curry chicken, authentic curry chicken, Caribbean recipes, easy dinner, spicy chicken recipe