
This authentic Jamaican curry chicken recipe simmers tender meat in a rich, spicy sauce for a comforting meal ready in just over an hour. Bursting with aromatic thyme, pimento, and Scotch bonnet heat, it captures the true island flavor. Serve this hearty stew over steaming white rice or with traditional rice and peas for a complete Caribbean experience.
Wash the chicken pieces with vinegar and water, pat them dry, and place them in a large bowl.
Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, minced garlic, grated ginger, and 1 tablespoon of the curry powder, rubbing the spices in thoroughly.
Heat the vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of curry powder directly to the hot oil and stir constantly for about 30 seconds to 'burn' the curry until it darkens slightly and becomes fragrant.
Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pot and sear, turning frequently, until the chicken is browned on all sides and coated in the curry oil.
Stir in the chopped onions and fresh thyme sprigs, cooking for another 2 minutes until the onions begin to soften.
Pour in the water and add the pimento seeds (allspice), bringing the mixture to a rolling boil.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20 minutes to allow the chicken to tenderize.
Add the cubed potatoes, sliced carrots, and the whole Scotch bonnet pepper, being careful not to burst the pepper if you want flavor without intense heat.
Simmer uncovered for another 20 to 25 minutes until the sauce thickens and the vegetables are fork-tender.
Remove the whole Scotch bonnet pepper and thyme stems before serving hot over white rice or rice and peas.





