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jamaican curry chicken recipe

Jamaican Curry Chicken Recipe

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This healthy Jamaican curry chicken recipe is rich in flavor, made with traditional spices, fresh herbs, and a lighter cooking method. It’s a comforting, protein-packed meal perfect for everyday healthy meals without heavy ingredients.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Caribbean, Jamaican
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • cup water
  • 2 lbs bone-in, skinless chicken pieces (drumsticks or thighs)
  • 3 scallions (green onions), chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 6 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 tbsp Jamaican curry powder (divided)
  • 1/2 tsp ground allspice (pimento)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 3/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced

Method
 

  1. Rinse the chicken pieces and pat dry. Place them in a large bowl and season with scallions, garlic, ginger, thyme, 1 tablespoon curry powder, salt, black pepper, and allspice. Mix well and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-bottom pot over medium heat. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon curry powder and stir continuously for about 30 to 45 seconds until fragrant. Do not let it burn.
  3. Add sliced onions to the pot and sauté until softened. Add the seasoned chicken and stir to coat it well with the curry base. Allow the chicken to brown lightly for 5 to 7 minutes.
  4. Pour in the water, add potatoes and carrots, then cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 30 to 35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is tender and the sauce thickens naturally.

Nutrition

Calories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 38gFat: 20gFiber: 4g

Notes

  • For a milder dish, skip hot peppers entirely.
  • For extra heat, add a small piece of Scotch bonnet pepper while simmering.
  • This recipe thickens naturally without coconut milk, keeping it lighter and suitable for healthy meals.

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