Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

The Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe is a vibrant and savory dish that brings the essence of Caribbean cooking right to your kitchen. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this recipe delivers a burst of flavors with every bite. With tender chicken coated in aromatic spices, it’s both comforting and exciting, making it a favorite for all occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, perfect for busy nights.
• Flavorful Spice Blend: The combination of curry powder and smoked paprika creates a rich, layered taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste.
• Colorful Presentation: The bright colors of the dish make it visually appealing on any table.
• Kid-Friendly Option: Mild enough for children while still being satisfying for adults.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking even more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare this fantastic Jamaican curry chicken.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or Dutch oven: Ideal for even cooking and allows for easy stirring and simmering of the chicken and vegetables.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts, making chopping vegetables quick and safe.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 3 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs, chopped
• 1 tablespoon browning sauce, optional

For the Spices

• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder

For the Vegetables

• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced

Miscellaneous

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

How to Make Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and dice the onion, carrot, and bell pepper.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the chopped chicken thighs to the skillet. Stir well to coat in oil and cook until browned on all sides.

Step 4: Add Spices

Once the chicken is browned, sprinkle in the curry powder, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Mix everything well to ensure that each piece of chicken is seasoned evenly.

Step 5: Incorporate Vegetables

Add the diced carrot and sliced bell pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly as they absorb the spices’ flavor.

Step 6: Simmer

Pour in enough water or broth to cover the chicken mixture partially. Bring it to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for about 20 minutes until everything is cooked through.

Step 7: Serve

Once cooked, give your curry a final stir. Serve it hot over rice or with warm bread for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious Jamaican Curry Chicken!

How to Serve Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

Jamaican Curry Chicken is a flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, here are some serving suggestions that will enhance your dining experience.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the delicious curry sauce.
• Brown Rice: A healthier option that adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture.

With Bread

• Roti: This soft flatbread is perfect for scooping up the curry.
• Naan: A warm, fluffy naan complements the spices beautifully.

With Vegetables

• Sautéed Greens: Serve with sautéed kale or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal grilled veggies can add freshness to the plate.

Best Side Dishes for Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Jamaican Curry Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Mango Salsa: This fresh salsa adds sweetness and crunch, balancing the spice of the curry.
2. Coconut Rice: Infused with coconut milk, it complements the flavors of the dish perfectly.
3. Plantains: Fried or baked plantains provide a sweet contrast to savory curry.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that’s great alongside the rich chicken.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with fresh herbs offers a nutritious side that’s easy to prepare.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn serves as a sweet and juicy side that enhances any Caribbean meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• One common mistake is not marinating the chicken. Marinating allows flavors to penetrate, enhancing taste. To avoid this, marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
• Another issue is using the wrong curry powder. Not all curry powders are created equal; some may lack flavor or heat. Choose a quality Jamaican curry powder for the best results.
• A frequent error is overcooking the chicken. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Cook until just done, ensuring it remains juicy and tender.
• Many people forget about adjusting seasoning. Tasting as you cook helps balance flavors. Always sample your dish and adjust salt or spices as needed.
• Lastly, avoid skipping the vegetables. Vegetables add flavor and nutrition to your dish. Ensure you include a mix of your favorite veggies for added texture and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Make sure to label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm throughout.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe?
A Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe features tender chicken marinated in vibrant spices and served with vegetables for a flavorful meal that reflects Caribbean cuisine.

Can I use other meats in this Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, turkey, or lamb based on your preference.

How do I customize the Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe?
You can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables like zucchini or sweet potatoes, or adjust spice levels according to your taste.

Is this Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This recipe stores well and is perfect for meal prep for busy weeknights.

What side dishes pair well with Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe?
Serve it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad to complement the rich flavors of the curry.

Final Thoughts

This Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe is not only delicious but also very versatile. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Give it a try and enjoy the vibrant flavors of Jamaica in your kitchen!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Discover the vibrant flavors of Caribbean cuisine with this easy Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe. This dish brings together tender chicken thighs coated in a rich blend of spices, combined with colorful vegetables for a satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, each bite delivers an exciting burst of flavor that will transport your taste buds straight to the island. Ready in under an hour, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients. Serve it over rice or with warm flatbreads for a complete and delightful dining experience.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Chop chicken into bite-sized pieces and dice the onion, carrot, and bell pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat; sauté onion until translucent.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Stir in curry powder, smoked paprika, and garlic powder until well-coated.
5. Add diced carrot and bell pepper; mix well.
6. Pour in enough water or broth to partially cover; simmer on low for 20 minutes until cooked through.
7. Serve hot over rice or with warm bread.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Caribbean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 100mg