Jump to Recipe Print RecipeWhen that craving for something truly flavorful strikes, I often find myself reaching for the bold and vibrant flavors of Jamaica. My Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken with Coconut Milk has become a staple in my kitchen, and it’s easy to see why! This dish not only offers a delightful punch of spice but also checks all the boxes for those seeking a hearty, dairy-free, and gluten-free meal. With tender chicken simmered in creamy coconut milk and a medley of fragrant spices, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend feast. Curious how to bring this comforting taste of home right to your table? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why is this Curry Chicken so Unique? Bold flavors shine in this dish, filled with tender chicken infused with aromatic spices. Creamy texture from coconut milk beautifully balances the spice, creating a comforting experience. Versatile options allow you to adjust heat levels or make it vegetarian, catering to any taste. Quick prep time means you can enjoy this delicious meal even on busy weeknights. Pair it with a side of fried plantains or steamed rice, and you’re in for a treat reminiscent of Huli Huli Chicken or Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas for a full-flavored dining experience! Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken • Organic Chicken (3-4 lbs) – The main protein, skin removed for better flavor absorption. • Browning Sauce (1-2 Tbsps) – Optional; adds rich color and depth to the dish. For the Seasoning • Jamaican Green Seasoning (2-3 Tbsps) – Ensures an authentic flavor; substitute with all-purpose seasoning if needed. • Jamaican Curry Powder (2 Tbsps + 2½ Tbsps) – Key spice that adds warmth and color; remember to burn before use for enhanced flavor. • On Everything All-Purpose Blend (2 tsps) – Ideal for seasoning; consider a homemade blend for extra flavor. • Sea Salt (1 tsp) – Enhances all other flavors; adjust to taste. • Smoked Paprika (½ tsp) – Adds a delightful smokiness; completely optional. • Black Pepper (to taste) – Improves flavor depth; add as desired. For the Sauce • Extra Virgin Olive Oil (4 Tbsps) – Used for frying; can be replaced with other oils per your preference. • Organic Brown Sugar (2 Tbsps) – Balances spice; can be omitted if you prefer less sweetness. • Full-Fat Coconut Milk (14 oz can) – Provides a creamy texture and flavor, ensuring your dish is dairy-free. • Organic Chicken Stock (1 cup) – Adds depth; opt for low-sodium for healthier choices. For the Vegetables • Russet Potatoes (2 medium) – Thickens the sauce; cube and cook directly in the curry for a delightful texture. • Carrots (2 medium) – Adds a sweet note and crunch; chop for an even cook. • Bell Pepper (1 medium) – Sweet and crunchy; easy to chop and add for extra volume. • Garlic (3 cloves) – Aromatic base that enhances overall flavor; remember to mince! • Fresh Ginger (2 tsps) – Brings warmth; can substitute with ground ginger (½ tsp) for convenience. • Green Onions (2, chopped) – Adds fresh flavor and color; scallions make a good alternative. • Fresh Thyme (2 sprigs) – An essential herbal note for authenticity. For the Heat • Scotch Bonnet Peppers (1-3) – For that authentic heat; adjust based on your spice tolerance or substitute with milder peppers. • Jamaican Pepper Sauce (1 tbsp) – For an extra kick; feel free to use any preferred hot sauce. • Ground Allspice (1 tsp) – Adds aromatic warmth and flavor; important for authenticity in the dish. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Step 1: Marinate Chicken In a large bowl, combine the cleaned chicken with browning sauce, Jamaican green seasoning, sea salt, all-purpose blend, smoked paprika, and curry powder. Mix well to ensure even coverage, then cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor. The chicken should be well-coated and fragrant by the time you’re ready to cook. Step 2: Brown Chicken In a heavy skillet, heat 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat, adding 2 tablespoons of brown sugar until melted and bubbling. Sear the marinated chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until it develops a rich brown color. Once browned, remove the chicken and set aside, allowing the flavorful bits to remain in the pan. Step 3: Burn Curry Powder In the same skillet, without cleaning it, add another tablespoon of olive oil and the Jamaican curry powder. Stir frequently for about 2-3 minutes until the curry powder becomes fragrant and darkens slightly; this technique enhances the depth of flavor in your Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken. Be careful not to burn it! Step 4: Prepare Curry Sauce Next, add minced garlic, ginger, scotch bonnet peppers, chopped green onions, bell peppers, and carrots to the skillet. Sauté the mixture for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and release their aromatics. Then, stir in ground allspice, sea salt, and black pepper until evenly mixed, amplifying the dish’s bold flavors. Step 5: Combine Ingredients Pour in the 14 oz can of full-fat coconut milk and 1 cup of organic chicken stock, increasing the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, carefully add the browned chicken and cubed potatoes to the pot. Toss in the fresh thyme, then lower the heat to a simmer, covering the skillet and cooking for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is tender and the sauce thickens. Step 6: Serve When your Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is ready, serve it hot, beautifully plated over steamed rice or your desired sides. Garnish with additional chopped scallions or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra pop of color and flavor. Enjoy the delicious warmth and rich tastes of this cherished Jamaican dish! Make Ahead Options These Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the chicken in the flavorful blend of browning sauce, Jamaican green seasoning, and spices up to 24 hours in advance, allowing it to soak up all the deliciousness. Additionally, you can chop your vegetables like bell peppers and carrots up to 3 days ahead. To keep them fresh, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply brown the chicken and follow the remaining steps to finish the dish. This way, you’ll enjoy a comforting, hearty meal that’s just as delicious without the last-minute scramble! Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Variations Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own with these delightful twists! Vegetarian: Swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas for a delicious vegan version. You’ll still enjoy a hearty meal packed with flavor. Gluten-Free: Ensure all sauces and seasonings are labeled gluten-free, keeping this dish suitable for anyone with gluten intolerance. Heat Adjustment: If you prefer less spice, reduce the number of scotch bonnet peppers or opt for milder varieties like jalapeño for a gentler kick. Sweet Potato Boost: Substitute russet potatoes with sweet potatoes for a naturally sweet and creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the spices. Creamier Sauce: Add more coconut milk or even a dollop of almond yogurt to make your sauce extra creamy and rich. This lets the vibrant flavors really shine! Add Vegetables: Toss in some chopped spinach or snap peas for an extra pop of nutrition and color, reminiscent of a colorful Chicken Bacon Ranch salad. Extra Aromatics: Mix in a bit of lemongrass or kaffir lime leaves to elevate your curry chicken’s fragrance, transporting your taste buds straight to the tropics. Flavor Infusion: For an intense flavor boost, consider marinating the chicken in Huli Huli Chicken marinade overnight for an extra depth of taste! With these variations, you can keep your dinners exciting and flavorful. Enjoy exploring new tastes while embracing the essence of this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken! What to Serve with Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Experience a flavor-packed journey by discovering delightful sides that perfectly complement this savory dish. Steamed White Rice: The classic pairing that absorbs the rich curry sauce, allowing every bite to be a comforting delight. Fried Plantains: Sweet and crunchy, they offer a delightful contrast to the spicy chicken, balancing flavors beautifully. Coconut Rice: Infused with coconut milk, this side enhances the tropical notes in the curry chicken, creating a harmonious dish. Sautéed Greens: Options like collard greens or spinach add a fresh, earthy note that brightens the meal’s flavor profile. Cucumber Salad: A cool and refreshing side to counter the heat, this salad adds crunch and a light, zesty flavor. Mango Chutney: For an added layer of sweetness, this fruity condiment elevates each bite of curry with its tangy goodness. Caribbean Red Beans and Rice: Flavorful and filling, this classic dish rounds out the meal while matching the curry’s essence. Ginger Beer: The perfect drink to cleanse the palate, its spicy, sweet profile complements the flavors of the curry wonderfully. Pineapple Upside Down Cake: A slice of this tropical dessert adds a sweet finale to your meal, echoing the dish’s vibrant flavors. Expert Tips for Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Marinate Overnight: For the most flavorful chicken, marinate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight. This enhances the depth of flavor in your Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken. Burning Curry Powder: Ensure to actually burn the curry powder in oil to release its full flavor. This technique helps mitigate digestive issues often linked to strong spices. Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with one scotch bonnet pepper and gradually add more. This way, you can achieve the perfect spice level without overwhelming your taste buds. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh thyme, ginger, and garlic significantly boost the flavor, so opt for fresh if possible. Dried alternatives can lose their potency and depth. Thicken Sauce Properly: Don’t rush the simmering process! Allow at least 20-25 minutes for the sauce to thicken properly, giving your dish a rich, comforting texture. Serve with Balance: Pair your curry chicken with a side of steamed rice or fried plantains to balance the spices and create a well-rounded meal experience. How to Store and Freeze Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Fridge: Store leftover Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before serving. Freezer: Freeze the curry in portions for up to 3 months. Use airtight freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, ensuring you remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen curry in the fridge overnight. Reheat on low heat and stir occasionally until thoroughly warmed through. Reheating: Use the stove for a more even heat distribution. If reheating in the microwave, cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid and stir halfway through to ensure even warming. Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe FAQs How do I select the best chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! When choosing chicken for your Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken, look for organic, free-range chicken if possible. The meat should be bright pink with no dark spots or unpleasant odor. It’s best to use bone-in pieces like thighs or drumsticks for a more flavorful dish, but using boneless, skinless chicken breasts will work as well! How can I store leftovers, and how long will they last? Leftover Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken can be placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, ensuring it’s heated through to maintain the best flavor. Can I freeze this curry chicken, and if so, how? Definitely! You can freeze your curry for up to 3 months. To do this, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Write the date on the container for reference! What if my curry is too spicy? Can I tone it down? Very much! If your Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken turns out too spicy, you can add a touch more coconut milk to balance the heat. Alternatively, consider stirring in some plain yogurt (if dairy is not a concern) or even sugar to offset the spice. You can also serve it with a side of rice, which will help mellow the flavors! Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies? Certainly! If you’re planning to share this dish with pets, it’s vital to remember that scotch bonnet peppers and certain spices can be harmful to dogs and cats. Keep this flavorful chicken to yourself, or just prepare a separate, spice-free portion for your furry friends. What should I do if my curry sauce is too thin? If you find your sauce is thinner than desired, don’t worry! After simmering, you can increase the heat slightly and let it cook uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing some liquid to evaporate and thickening the sauce. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water, then stir it into the boiling curry to quickly thicken it up. Happy cooking! Irresistible Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken You'll Love Discover the bold flavors of Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken with Coconut Milk, a hearty, dairy-free, and gluten-free meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 3 hours hrsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 3 hours hrs 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: JamaicanCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken3-4 lbs Organic Chicken skin removed for better flavor absorption1-2 Tbsps Browning Sauce optional; adds rich color and depthFor the Seasoning2-3 Tbsps Jamaican Green Seasoning ensures an authentic flavor2 + 2.5 Tbsps Jamaican Curry Powder burn before use for enhanced flavor2 tsps On Everything All-Purpose Blend ideal for seasoning1 tsp Sea Salt adjust to taste0.5 tsp Smoked Paprika optionalBlack Pepper to tasteFor the Sauce4 Tbsps Extra Virgin Olive Oil used for frying2 Tbsps Organic Brown Sugar balances spice14 oz Full-Fat Coconut Milk provides creamy texture1 cup Organic Chicken Stock adds depthFor the Vegetables2 medium Russet Potatoes cube and cook directly in the curry2 medium Carrots chop for even cook1 medium Bell Pepper chop for extra volume3 cloves Garlic minced2 tsps Fresh Ginger or substitute with ground ginger (0.5 tsp)2 Green Onions chopped2 sprigs Fresh Thyme essential for authenticityFor the Heat1-3 Scotch Bonnet Peppers adjust based on spice tolerance1 Tbsp Jamaican Pepper Sauce for an extra kick1 tsp Ground Allspice important for authenticity Equipment large bowlheavy skillet Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Authentic Jamaican Curry ChickenIn a large bowl, combine the cleaned chicken with browning sauce, Jamaican green seasoning, sea salt, all-purpose blend, smoked paprika, and curry powder. Mix well to ensure even coverage, then cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.In a heavy skillet, heat extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat, adding brown sugar until melted and bubbling. Sear the marinated chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.In the same skillet, without cleaning it, add another tablespoon of olive oil and the Jamaican curry powder. Stir frequently for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.Add minced garlic, ginger, scotch bonnet peppers, chopped green onions, bell peppers, and carrots to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until vegetables soften.Pour in the coconut milk and chicken stock, bring to a gentle boil. Carefully add the browned chicken and cubed potatoes. Toss in fresh thyme, lower the heat to simmer, and cover, cooking for 20-25 minutes until chicken is tender.Serve hot over steamed rice or desired sides, garnishing with chopped scallions. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 40gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 1000mgFiber: 5gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg NotesFor best flavor, marinate overnight and use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Adjust spice levels to personal preference and enjoy with a side of fried plantains or rice. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
