Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe
Introduction
Jamaican Curry Chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines tender chicken with aromatic spices. This simple recipe brings the vibrant taste of the Caribbean right to your kitchen, perfect for a hearty meal.

Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 1 cup water or chicken broth
Instructions
- Step 1: Season the chicken pieces with curry powder, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Step 2: Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant.
- Step 3: Add the seasoned chicken to the pan and brown it on all sides for about 5 minutes.
- Step 4: Pour in the water or chicken broth, bring to a simmer, then cover and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Step 5: Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot with steamed rice.
Tips & Variations
- For more depth, add a diced potato or carrot during simmering to create a heartier stew.
- Use coconut milk instead of water for a richer, creamier sauce.
- For extra heat, include Scotch bonnet pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Marinate the chicken overnight for stronger curry flavors.
Storage
Store leftover curry chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes, Jamaican curry powder works well with goat, beef, or pork. Adjust cooking time accordingly depending on the meat.
Is curry powder the same as curry paste?
No, curry powder is a dry spice blend, while curry paste is a moist mixture often containing fresh ingredients. This recipe uses curry powder for a simpler preparation.
PrintJamaican Curry Chicken Recipe
A flavorful Jamaican Curry Chicken recipe featuring tender chicken simmered in aromatic curry powder, onions, and garlic, served traditionally with rice for a satisfying Caribbean meal.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Jamaican
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 pounds bone-in chicken pieces
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons Jamaican curry powder
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Others
- 1 cup water or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Cooked white rice, for serving
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, evenly coat the chicken pieces with Jamaican curry powder, salt, and black pepper. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes to allow the spices to penetrate the meat.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Brown the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet and brown them on all sides, about 6-8 minutes, to develop flavor.
- Simmer: Pour in water or chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender, stirring occasionally.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove from heat and serve the curry chicken over steamed white rice for a classic Jamaican meal.
Notes
- For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Use boneless chicken thighs for quicker cooking.
- Add potatoes or carrots during simmering for a heartier dish.
- Adjust curry powder quantity based on spice preference.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
Keywords: Jamaican Curry Chicken, Caribbean Chicken, Curry Chicken Recipe, Jamaican Cuisine, Spicy Chicken

