Name: Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Jamaican
Ingredients: 3-4 lbs. organic chicken, skin removed; 1-2 Tbsps browning (optional); 2-3 Tbsps Jamaican Green Seasoning; 2 Tbsps Jamaican curry powder; 2 tsps On Everything All-Purpose Blend; 1 teaspoon sea salt; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; 4 Tbsps extra virgin olive oil; 2 Tbsps organic brown sugar; 1 (14 oz.) can full-fat coconut milk; 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped; 1 medium bell pepper, cored, stem removed, and chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tsps minced fresh ginger; 1-3 scotch bonnet peppers (adjust according to preferred heat); 2 green onions, lightly crushed or chopped; 2 fresh thyme sprigs; 1 cup organic low-sodium chicken stock; 2 ½ Tbsps Jamaican curry powder; 1 tablespoon Jamaican pepper; 1 teaspoon ground allspice; Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

If you’re craving something vibrant, comforting, and packed with bold flavors, you absolutely have to try this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe. I remember the first time I made it—it instantly transported me to Jamaica with its spicy warmth and rich aroma. This recipe is special because it blends traditional Jamaican spices with fresh, wholesome ingredients, giving you a curry that’s both authentic and accessible.

Whether you want a cozy family dinner or are impressing guests with a taste of the islands, this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe stands out. Its balance of spice, sweetness, and creaminess is just right, and it pairs beautifully with simple sides to create a meal that everyone raves about. I just love how versatile it is, making it a go-to for both weeknights and special occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the right combination of spices and fresh ingredients is key to nailing this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe. Shopping for fresh thyme and scotch bonnet peppers might take a quick trip to a specialty store, but trust me, it’s absolutely worth it for that genuine flavor punch.

Organic chicken: I prefer skinless for a leaner dish, but you can keep the skin for more richness if you like.
Browning (optional): Adds that deep, caramelized color and flavor—but don’t worry if you skip it, the curry powder does a great job too.
Jamaican Green Seasoning: A flavorful blend of herbs and spices that kickstarts the marinade with authentic zest.
Jamaican curry powder: The soul of the dish, make sure it’s a high-quality blend for the best taste.
On Everything All-Purpose Blend: Perfect for seasoning that hits every flavor note.
Sea salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering them.
Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky layer that deepens the curry’s complexity.
Extra virgin olive oil: For sautéing your aromatics—use something good quality for a clean taste.
Organic brown sugar: Balances the heat with a touch of sweet warmth.
Full-fat coconut milk: Creates that luscious, creamy sauce that’s signature to Jamaican curry chicken.
Russet potatoes: They soak up the curry beautifully—don’t substitute for waxy potatoes here.
Carrots: Add natural sweetness and texture contrast.
Bell pepper: Gives freshness and a mild crunch.
Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic is a must for vibrant flavor.
Fresh ginger: I always use fresh—it adds the perfect spicy zing.
Scotch bonnet peppers: The authentic choice for authentic heat; remove seeds if you want less fiery.
Green onions: Lightly crushed to release flavor without overpowering.
Fresh thyme sprigs: A signature herb in Jamaican cooking that brings earthiness.
Organic chicken stock: Keeps the curry tender and flavorful without unnecessary salt.
Jamaican pepper: Adds a unique peppery kick, similar to allspice but more aromatic.
Ground allspice: Warm and sweet-spicy—don’t skip it!
Black pepper: To taste, for an extra layer of heat and complexity.

Variations

One of the best things about this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe is how adaptable it is. I often tweak the heat level or experiment with what veggies to toss in, making it my own or suited to whoever I’m cooking for.

Milder version: I remove the seeds from the scotch bonnet peppers or use fewer to keep the spice friendly for everyone.
Vegetable additions: Sometimes I add chickpeas or green beans to bulk it up and add variety.
Different proteins: If you want to switch it up, try using bone-in thighs or even goat meat for a different traditional twist.
Dairy-free and gluten-free: This whole recipe works beautifully for those diets, just check your seasoning blends to ensure no hidden gluten.
Instant Pot adaptation: I’ve tried this in my Instant Pot to shorten cook time, and it works well while keeping the flavors robust.

How to Make Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate Your Chicken to Perfection

This step is where the magic begins. Combine your organic chicken with Jamaican green seasoning, curry powder, On Everything blend, sea salt, smoked paprika, and a touch of browning if you’re using it. Rub the seasoning all over the chicken pieces—don’t rush this; get in there with your hands so every piece is coated well. Then cover and let it marinate for at least 2 hours, or better yet, overnight in the fridge. Marinating not only infuses flavor but tenderizes the meat, making your dish truly authentic.

Step 2: Build the Spicy Jamaican Curry Sauce

In a large pot or heavy skillet, heat your extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, ginger, green onions, and scotch bonnet peppers; sauté until fragrant—don’t rush this because this aroma is foundational to the dish. Sprinkle in your curry powder and Jamaican pepper, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to toast the spices and really bloom their flavors. Then add the brown sugar and stir to melt it into the mixture, balancing the heat with a hint of sweetness.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken and Simmer

Next, add your marinated chicken to the pot, browning it on all sides to seal in the juices and deepen the flavor. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, pour in the coconut milk and chicken stock, then add the potatoes, carrots, bell pepper, thyme sprigs, and ground allspice. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for about 40-50 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and the sauce thickens slightly—if it gets too thick, just add a splash more stock or water.

How to Serve Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

A top view of a white cast iron pot filled with a rich, brown stew containing multiple pieces of dark brown chicken drumsticks and thighs cooked in thick, glossy sauce. The dish has visible chunks of soft yellow potatoes, orange carrots, and small red pepper pieces mixed throughout, giving it texture and color variety. A wooden spoon rests on the right side inside the pot, slightly submerged in the stew. The pot is sitting on a dark wood surface with a few small green and red peppers and some fresh green thyme sprigs scattered around. There is a burnt orange cloth partially visible under the pot at the bottom right. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I love topping my curry chicken with a sprinkle of fresh chopped green onions or cilantro just before serving. The fresh herbs brighten up the spicy, rich flavors and add a lovely pop of color. Sometimes I’ll add a squeeze of lime juice to bring a touch of tang, which cuts through the richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with traditional sides like fluffy white rice or rice and peas. I also enjoy it with plain steamed vegetables or fried plantains for a sweet, savory contrast. If you want a lighter meal, serve it over cauliflower rice—still delicious but with fewer carbs.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve plated the curry chicken in vibrant bowls with colorful side dishes to give a festive island vibe. Sometimes, I make individual servings right inside hollowed-out bell peppers—it’s a fun presentation that looks great on any dinner table or potluck spread!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and honestly, the flavors deepen the next day. Just make sure it cools completely before sealing. It usually keeps well for 3-4 days, which makes for an incredibly satisfying quick lunch or dinner.

Freezing

I’ve had great success freezing authentic Jamaican curry chicken when I make big batches. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, leaving some space for expansion. When you thaw it, do so overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor retention.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer warming the curry gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Adding a splash of water or chicken stock helps loosen the sauce if it’s thickened too much. Microwaving works in a pinch but can make the chicken a bit dry, so stovetop reheating is my go-to for best results.

FAQs

Can I make this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe less spicy?

Absolutely! If you’re sensitive to heat, use fewer scotch bonnet peppers or remove the seeds before cooking. You can even substitute with milder peppers like jalapeños. The curry powder and other spices will still provide plenty of flavor without the intense heat.
What can I substitute if I can’t find Jamaican Green Seasoning?

If you can’t find Jamaican Green Seasoning, you can make a simple blend at home using fresh scallions, thyme, garlic, bell pepper, and a dash of Scotch bonnet or chili flakes. Alternatively, use a mix of fresh herbs and garlic to mimic the fresh, herbaceous quality of the seasoning.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! The Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe tastes even better after a day or two as the flavors meld. It reheats well and can be frozen in portions, making it an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts.
What sides pair best with Jamaican Curry Chicken?

Traditional sides include white rice, rice and peas, or fried plantains. Steamed veggies or simple coleslaw also balance the spice nicely. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice works great too.

Final Thoughts

This Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe has become one of my favorite dishes to share with friends and family because it’s not just about the taste—it’s about the experience. It brings a little slice of Jamaica into my kitchen with its comforting spices, creamy sauce, and that perfect heat that keeps you coming back for more. I hope you give it a try and find it as rewarding to make as it is delicious to eat!