Easy and authentic jamaican curry chicken recipe: a taste of the islands

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Jamaica with this authentic Jamaican curry chicken recipe. This flavorful dish combines tender chicken, aromatic spices, and a rich curry sauce to create a culinary masterpiece that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Kingston.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into 8 pieces
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 (15-ounce) can coconut milk
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the chicken on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the onion and bell peppers to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute more.
3. Add the Spices: Sprinkle the allspice, cinnamon, turmeric, cumin, curry powder, and red pepper flakes (if using) over the aromatics. Stir well to combine and cook for 30 seconds to release the flavors.
4. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the coconut milk and diced tomatoes and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
5. Add the Chicken and Broth: Return the chicken pieces to the pot along with the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Add Brown Sugar: Stir in the brown sugar and cook for an additional 15 minutes to thicken the sauce.
7. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings with salt and black pepper as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Jamaican curry chicken over rice, pasta, or your favorite vegetables. Top with chopped cilantro or green onions for a fresh touch.

Variations

• Spicy Curry: Add an extra teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a chopped scotch bonnet pepper to the sauce for heat.
• Creamy Curry: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or plain yogurt to the sauce for a richer and creamier texture.
• Vegetable Curry: Add chopped vegetables such as carrots, celery, or potatoes to the pot along with the chicken.

Tips

• For a more authentic flavor, use Jamaican curry powder.
• If you don’t have coconut milk, you can use a mixture of regular milk and heavy cream.
• Don’t overcook the chicken, or it will become tough.
• The curry sauce can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve.

Nutritional Information

Serving size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 25g

Ending with a Twist

Let the vibrant flavors of Jamaican curry chicken dance on your palate and transport you to the sun-soaked shores of the Caribbean. This delectable dish is a culinary symphony that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Answers to Your Questions

Q: What is the best way to thicken the curry sauce?
A: Simmer the sauce for a longer period of time or add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to thicken it.
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, thaw the chicken completely before cooking.
Q: How do I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
A: Place all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.