Name: Original Jamaican Curry Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 1 lime lime (juiced); 5 pounds chicken pieces (bone-in (drumsticks and thighs)); 1 large onion (peeled and chopped); 5-6 cloves garlic (minced); ½ cup curry powder; 3 tablespoons adobo seasoning (or all-purpose chicken seasoning); 1 tablespoon ginger (fresh grated); 1 tablespoon thyme (fresh leaves); 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon ground allspice; 1-2 habanero peppers ((or scotch bonnet), seeded and minced); ½ cup vegetable oil; 3 cups potatoes (chopped, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes); 2 cups carrots (chopped); 1½ cups bell pepper (chopped, cut into 1-inch cubes); 3 cups chicken broth

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If you’ve ever dreamed of transporting your taste buds straight to the islands, this Original Jamaican Curry Chicken recipe is your ticket to paradise. With its vibrant flavors and warm, inviting aromas, this dish embodies the spirit of Jamaican cooking—bold, colorful, and full of life. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and fresh vegetables creates a comforting meal that warms the soul. Let’s dive into this culinary journey and explore how to make this delicious dish in the comfort of your own kitchen!

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Original Jamaican Curry Chicken recipe is not only easy to follow, but it also delivers authentic flavors that will impress your family and friends. The balance of spices and fresh ingredients ensures that every bite is packed with depth and richness. Additionally, it’s adaptable for various tastes and preferences, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

What Goes Into Original Jamaican Curry Chicken

To make this authentic dish, you’ll want to gather the following ingredients:

1 lime, juiced
5 pounds bone-in chicken pieces (I used drumsticks and thighs)
1 large onion, peeled and chopped
5-6 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup curry powder
3 tablespoons adobo seasoning or all-purpose chicken seasoning
1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1-2 habanero peppers (or scotch bonnet), seeded and minced
½ cup vegetable oil
3 cups chopped potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
2 cups chopped carrots
1½ cups chopped bell pepper, cut into 1-inch cubes
3 cups chicken broth

Equipment at a Glance

To prepare this dish, you will need:

Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for slow cooking the chicken and vegetables.
Cutting board and knife: Necessary for chopping the ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurement.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring and mixing.

Method: Original Jamaican Curry Chicken

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your own Original Jamaican Curry Chicken.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the lime juice, curry powder, adobo seasoning, minced garlic, grated ginger, fresh thyme, dried thyme, ground allspice, and minced habanero peppers. Mix well until the chicken is thoroughly coated in the marinade. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in batches, browning them on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes per batch. Don’t overcrowd the pot; you want a nice golden color on the chicken.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

After browning the chicken, remove it from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onions, carrots, and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions become translucent.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the browned chicken to the pot, and add the chopped potatoes along with the chicken broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Serve

Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve your Original Jamaican Curry Chicken over rice or with traditional bread, and enjoy the vibrant flavors and rich aromas!

Tailor It to Your Diet

This recipe is versatile and can be tailored to fit various dietary needs:

Gluten-Free: Ensure your seasonings and chicken broth are gluten-free.
Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead.
Low-Carb: Reduce the quantity of potatoes or omit them entirely for a lower carb option.

Avoid These Mistakes

To ensure your Original Jamaican Curry Chicken comes out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

Avoid rushing the marination process; allowing the chicken to sit in the marinade increases flavor.
Do not skip browning the chicken; this step adds depth to the dish.
Be cautious with the amount of habanero; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent the chicken from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

To make the most of your cooking, consider these meal prep and storage tips:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
This dish freezes well; portion it out and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop over low heat.
Double the recipe for a meal prep win—enjoy this dish throughout the week!

Questions People Ask

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken pieces. However, be aware that boneless cuts may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent overcooking.

What can I serve with Jamaican curry chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, rice and peas, or traditional roti. You can also serve it with a fresh salad to balance out the flavors.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! After browning the chicken and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.

Quick Weeknight Wins

If you love this Original Jamaican Curry Chicken, you might also enjoy these quick and easy recipes:

The Last Word

Incorporating bold spices and fresh ingredients, this Original Jamaican Curry Chicken is a delightful addition to any dinner table. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and flavor that brings people together. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy evening or serving it to guests, this dish is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, embrace the vibrant flavors of Jamaica, and savor every delicious bite!