Island Bliss on a Plate: Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

Indulge your senses in a culinary journey that transcends borders and captivates palates – the world of Jamaican Curry Chicken! I've travelled a lot including the Caribbean and parts of Asia, so I'm very familiar with curry chicken dishes. I'm partial to Caribbean cuisine, so Jamaican curry chicken is my thing.

I've had a few from different spots in Jamaica so many of those influences make their way into my recipe version. I like mine heavy on the chicken and heavy on the curry so I limit the extra vegetables so that curry flavor comes through. My version utilizes "burnt curry" for more intense flavor and Trini green seasoning mix to cut through the chicken fat and keep the dish light.

This is a dish that resonates with the essence of the Caribbean, Jamaican Curry Chicken is a celebration of flavors, aromas, and traditions. With its roots embedded in the heart of Jamaica, this dish beautifully fuses tender chicken thighs, the allure of Jamaican curry powder, and the fiery spirit of Scotch bonnet peppers.

Join us as we explore the intricacies of marination, the harmonious blend of ingredients, and the art of cooking this dish to perfection. From understanding the significance of burning curry powder to crafting an authentic Jamaican curry sauce, this culinary voyage promises to be nothing short of a flavor-forward delight.

Beats and Eats (music to pair with curry chicken)

Bob Marley's song "Sun is Shining" pairs exceptionally well with a Jamaican curry chicken recipe due to the shared essence of vibrant positivity and cultural richness that both the song and the dish embody.

"Sun is Shining" exudes a sense of joyful optimism and upliftment, creating a musical atmosphere that mirrors the lively and spirited nature of Jamaican cuisine. The upbeat rhythm and Marley's soulful vocals evoke feelings of warmth and happiness, much like the comfort and satisfaction that a hearty plate of Jamaican curry chicken brings to the table.

Jamaican curry chicken, renowned for its robust flavors and aromatic spices, resonates with the song's celebratory spirit. The tantalizing blend of turmeric, cumin, coriander, and other spices in the curry mirrors the layers of emotions woven into the song's melodic composition.

Just as the song's lyrics evoke images of sunshine and positivity, the bold flavors of the curry transport diners to the vibrant streets of Jamaica, where the sun-kissed landscapes mirror the song's theme.

How to Marinate Jamaican Curry Chicken

Jamaican style curry chicken is known for its depth and complexity of flavor. To achieve this you need to find ways to add flavor at every step. Overnight marination is a key technique to achieving this. It is what transforms ingredients into a symphony of flavors. To embark on this culinary journey, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients Needed to Make This Recipe

• 2 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on - I definitely prefer the thigh vs. chicken breast meat for both flavor and juiciness. With breast you can easily dry them out.
• 2-3 medium potatoes, diced
• 3 tablespoons Jamaican curry powder
• 1 ½ tablespoons All purpose seasoning - I prefer to make my own using smoked paprika, salt, pepper, allspice, garlic powder
• 6-8 allspice berries
• 4-5 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, minced (adjust heat as desired)
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• ¼ cup Trini Green Seasoning
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

How to Make Jamaican Chicken Curry

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken

1. Gently score the chicken thighs to allow the marinade to penetrate. Wash the chicken in a combination of water and the lime juice.
2. In a large mixing bowl place the chicken pieces and add curry powder, all-purpose seasoning, allspice berries, thyme, and green seasoning. Mix in well to ensure all the pieces of chicken are coated well. Refrigerate overnight covered.

Step 2: Burn the Curry

Heat skillet on medium heat. Add oil to heat then add 1-2 teaspoons curry spice. Saute stirring occasionally as the curry browns. Add the minced garlic and ginger cooking for 30 seconds.

Step 3: Cooking the Curry Chicken

1. Add the chicken to the skillet. Mix well, add the whole scotch bonnet pepper, and then cover. Reserve the bowl used for marinating the chicken along with the residue. Allow to simmer 10-15 minutes stirring occasionally.
2. Add water to the reserved marinade residue. Mix well then add to the chicken. Mix well, cover, and continue cooking for another 5 minutes.
3. Add the red onions and bell pepper to the chicken along with the thyme. Mix well. Cook for another 10 minutes
4. Add the potatoes. Cover and cook until the potatoes are fork tender.
5. Remove lid and allow to cook until the gravy thickens to desired consistency. Serve over hot steamed rice along with Jamaican cabbage.

Cooking Tips and Considerations Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipes

• For the best curry chicken recipe, I prefer Caribbean curry powder, but in a pinch feel free to substitute Jamaican curry powder with store-bought generic curry.
• Chop leftover chicken curry into smaller pieces and use it for chicken salad.
• I've noticed lately that some recipes call for coconut milk. Curry chicken with a good full-fat coconut milk tastes delicious, but I tried to stay true to Jamaican style and omitted it from my recipe.
• Sweet potatoes can be substituted for the regular potatoes. Similarly chicken breasts can be added to in place of or in addition to dark meat chicken thighs. Just note white meat cooks a lil faster.

Why Do You Burn Cook Curry Powder For Traditional Jamaican Curry Chicken?

In this culinary dance, the act of gently toasting the Jamaican curry powder is a ritual of transformation. Unlike conventional wisdom that shuns burnt spices, Jamaican curry powder thrives on the alchemical process of toasting. The heat transmutes the flavors, bestowing a toasted, smoky note that enriches the spice profile. This transformation is the very essence of the dish's complexity and depth, elevating it to an unforgettable culinary experience.

Which Curry Powder to Use?

For an authentic voyage into the heart of Jamaican flavors, opt for Jamaican curry powder. Its unique blend of spices sets the stage for the distinct character of this dish. While store-bought curry powders can suffice, embracing the authenticity of Jamaican curry powder elevates the dish to a true symphony of flavors.

What is the Difference Between Jamaican Curry and Indian Curries?

Jamaican Curry and Indian curries share a common thread of complexity, but they dance to different rhythms. Jamaican curry powder often includes allspice and Scotch bonnet peppers, resulting in a blend that is bold, fragrant, and fiery. Indian curries, on the other hand, span a spectrum from mild to hot and are often characterized by a balance of aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric.

What Sides to Serve with Curry Chicken

A dish as vibrant as Jamaican Curry Chicken deserves accompaniments that harmonize with its flavors:

• Rice and Peas: Creamy coconut-kissed rice adorned with tender peas adds a soothing contrast to the heat of the curry.
• Fried Plantains: Sweet, caramelized plantains provide a tantalizing balance to the savory curry.
• Roti: This warm, soft flatbread acts as a perfect vessel for scooping up the luscious curry sauce.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw offers a cool and crisp complement to the intense flavors of the curry.

Other Jamaican Recipes to Consider

1. Jerk Chicken: An explosion of fiery flavors, jerk chicken encapsulates the spirit of Jamaica's culinary heritage.
2. Ackee and Saltfish: This national dish combines ackee fruit and salted cod for a uniquely Jamaican delight.
3. Callaloo: A celebration of vibrant greens, callaloo is a nutritious and flavorful side dish.
4. Brown Stew Chicken: Popular main dish of chicken pieces browned in burnt sugar seasoning and cooked in a rich dark gravy.

What is the Best Cut of Chicken to Use?

Chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on, are the ideal canvas for Jamaican Curry Chicken. Their succulence and flavor make every bite a journey of taste and texture.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

While bone-in chicken thighs contribute depth of flavor, boneless chicken can be used. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly to prevent overcooking.

Is Jamaican Curry Chicken extremely spicy?

The spice level can be tailored to your preference. Adjust the quantity of Scotch bonnet pepper to dial up or down the heat.

Can I use any curry powder for this recipe?

While store-bought curry powders are an option, Jamaican curry powder adds an authentic layer of flavor that elevates the dish.

Is Jamaican Curry Chicken Spicy?

It can be but doesn't have to be and usually isn't. This recipe is definitely not spicy as the seeds and veins are not used in the recipe.

Make This Curry Chicken Recipe

As the aroma of Jamaican Curry Chicken takes over your kitchen, you're embarking on a sensory journey that transcends time and space. From marinating to toasting curry powder, every step is a note in a symphony of flavors that pays homage to the heart of Jamaica.

Each bite is a melody, a taste of the Caribbean on your plate. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the fire of Scotch bonnet peppers, and let the dance of flavors lead you to a culinary paradise with every forkful of some seriously tasty Jamaican Curry Chicken.

Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge and skills to create a delicious grilled calamari steak meal, it’s time to fire up the grill and get cooking! With a little practice and experimentation, you’ll soon be serving up mouth-watering calamari steaks that will impress your friends and family.

If you make this Jamaican curry chicken recipe or any other from the site, please come back and leave me a comment below with your feedback. Definitely take a photo of the dish and be sure to tag #foodfidelity so that I can see them.

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