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Homemade Original Jamaican Curry Chicken photo

Original Jamaican Curry Chicken

This Original Jamaican Curry Chicken is a flavor-packed journey to the islands! Tender chicken, aromatic spices, and fresh vegetables come together in this comforting dish.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Jamaican

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
  • cups bell pepper chopped, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 cups chicken broth

Equipment

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Return the browned chicken to the pot, and add the chopped potatoes along with the chicken broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
  5. 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.
  6. 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!

Notes

  • Avoid rushing the marination process for deeper flavor.
  • Do not skip browning the chicken; it adds depth to the dish.
  • Adjust habanero according to your spice tolerance.
  • Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking.