Easy Jamaican Chicken Curry — Bold, Creamy, and Irresistibly Comforting
If you’re craving a dish that’s big on flavor, creamy in texture, and simple enough for busy weeknights, this Easy Jamaican Chicken Curry is exactly what you need. Packed with fragrant Jamaican spices, tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a silky coconut sauce, every bite delivers warm, tropical comfort.
Ingredients (and Why They Matter)
- 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs — Stay juicy and tender during simmering.
- 1 tbsp browning sauce (optional) — Adds rich color and caramel flavor.
- 2 tbsp Jamaican-style curry powder — Earthy, bold, and essential for authentic flavor.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika — Adds subtle smoky depth.
- 2 tsp garlic powder — Boosts savory flavor.
- 2 tbsp olive oil — Used for sautéing and blooming spices.
- 1 medium onion, diced — Adds sweetness and complexity.
- 1 large carrot, diced — Offers color and gentle sweetness.
- 1 bell pepper, sliced — Adds brightness and freshness.
- 1 scotch bonnet or ½ tsp chili flakes — Signature Caribbean heat.
- 2 cups chicken stock — Builds rich, savory sauce.
- 1 cup coconut milk — Creates a creamy, silky curry sauce.
- 2 potatoes, diced — Naturally thickens the curry.
- 1 tsp thyme — Classic Jamaican herb.
- Salt & pepper to taste
How to Make Jamaican Chicken Curry (Step-by-Step)
1. Season the Chicken
Mix chicken with browning sauce, curry powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onion, carrot, and bell pepper. Cook until soft and fragrant.
3. Wake Up the Curry Spices
Stir a pinch of curry powder into the hot oil for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
4. Brown the Chicken
Add seasoned chicken and potatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to brown lightly.
5. Build the Sauce
Pour in chicken stock and coconut milk. Add thyme and the whole scotch bonnet (or chili flakes). Simmer 20 minutes until the chicken is tender and sauce thickens.
6. Let the Curry Rest
Turn off the heat and let rest 10 minutes to deepen flavors.
Why This Curry Is So Loved
- ✔ One-pot convenience
- ✔ Big, layered Jamaican flavors
- ✔ Creamy coconut sauce
- ✔ Perfect balance of heat, spice, and comfort
- ✔ Easy enough for beginners
Pro Tips for Perfecting It
- Use Jamaican curry powder — It has a distinct, earthy Caribbean flavor.
- Always bloom the spices — Spices become more aromatic and flavorful.
- Rest before serving — Helps the sauce thicken naturally.
- Adjust heat carefully using scotch bonnet or chili flakes.
- Make ahead — Tastes even better the next day.
Serving Suggestions
- Fluffy white rice or jasmine rice
- Coconut rice
- Warm naan or roti
- Rice and peas
- Fried plantains
- Steamed cabbage or callaloo
Final Thoughts — Your New Favorite Weeknight Curry
This Easy Jamaican Chicken Curry delivers everything you want in a weeknight dish: quick, creamy, flavorful, and unbelievably satisfying. Once you make it, you’ll crave it again and again—bold, comforting, and absolutely delicious.
