Weeknight-Friendly Jamaican Curry Chicken: A Flavor-Packed Dinner in 30 Minutes
If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and comforting dinner recipe, this Jamaican Curry Chicken is a must-try! Packed with bold flavors, tender chicken, creamy coconut milk, and hearty vegetables, this dish brings the taste of the Caribbean straight to your kitchen. Best of all, it’s ready in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Jamaican Curry Chicken
1. Fast and Easy: With simple ingredients and a streamlined process, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
2. Authentic Flavors: Using curry powder, thyme, and scotch bonnet pepper (or chili flakes), this dish captures the essence of Jamaican cuisine.
3. Comforting and Nutritious: The combination of tender chicken, creamy coconut milk, and hearty veggies like potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers is satisfying and wholesome.
4. Customizable Spice Level: Not a fan of too much heat? Use chili flakes or remove the seeds from the scotch bonnet pepper for a milder version.
Ingredients You’ll Need
• 3 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs, chopped: Perfect for tender, juicy bites.
• 1 tablespoon browning sauce (optional): Adds depth of flavor and rich color.
• 2 tablespoons curry powder: A cornerstone of Jamaican cooking, delivering warm, aromatic spices.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika & 2 teaspoons garlic powder: For added depth and flavor.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables.
• 1 medium onion, diced; 1 large carrot, diced; 1 bell pepper, sliced: A mix of aromatics and vegetables for texture and sweetness.
• 1 scotch bonnet pepper or 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes: Brings the heat and authentic Jamaican flair.
• 2 cups chicken stock & 1 cup coconut milk: The perfect base for a rich, creamy curry sauce.
• 2 potatoes, diced: Adds heartiness to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon thyme: For earthy herbal notes.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances the flavors.
How to Make Jamaican Curry Chicken
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken. Combine browning sauce, curry powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and sliced bell peppers. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Cook the Chicken and Potatoes:
Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, allowing it to brown slightly. Stir in the diced potatoes and scotch bonnet pepper (or chili flakes if you prefer less heat).
4. Simmer the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken stock and coconut milk, stirring to combine. Sprinkle in the thyme, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is tender, the potatoes are cooked through, and the sauce has thickened.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Taste the curry and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot over white rice, naan, or even roti for a satisfying meal.
Tips for Success
• Marinate Ahead: If you have time, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight for even more flavor.
• Customize Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like green beans, peas, or zucchini for variety.
• Control the Spice: If using a scotch bonnet pepper, consider wearing gloves to handle it, and be mindful of its seeds, which carry most of the heat.
Why Jamaican Curry Stands Out
Unlike Indian curry, Jamaican curry uses a milder, more aromatic spice blend. It often includes turmeric, giving it a signature golden color, and pairs beautifully with coconut milk for a creamy finish.
Perfect Pairings
• Rice and Peas: For a traditional Jamaican side, try serving this curry with rice and peas (kidney beans cooked with coconut milk and thyme).
• Simple White Rice: Let the curry’s rich flavors shine by serving it over steamed white rice.
• Flatbreads: Naan or roti are perfect for soaking up every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Why It’s Perfect for Weeknights
This Jamaican Curry Chicken strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. The marination can be done ahead of time, and the one-pan cooking method saves on cleanup. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a winner.
Final Thoughts
Bring the warmth and vibrancy of Jamaican cuisine into your home with this easy and flavorful Jamaican Curry Chicken recipe. It’s a weeknight-friendly dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste. Give it a try, and watch it become a regular in your meal rotation!
Did you enjoy this recipe? Share your thoughts or ask questions in the comments below! Don’t forget to pin or bookmark this page for easy access later. Happy cooking!