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Jamaican cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, colors, and aromas, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the island. From the sweet and spicy notes found in jerk chicken to the comforting warmth of rice and peas, each dish tells a story of its own. One such culinary gem is Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken, a staple in Caribbean cooking that brings together the island's unique ingredients and influences.

Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Discover the vibrant flavors of Jamaica with this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken recipe! Tender chicken simmered in a rich, spicy curry, enhanced by aromatic spices and fresh vegetables, creates a comforting dish that’s sure to impress. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, it pairs beautifully with steamed rice or roti. Get ready to enjoy a culinary journey to the Caribbean right from your kitchen! Don't forget to garnish with fresh cilantro and scallions for that final touch!
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Ingredients
  

2 lbs chicken (bone-in, skinless, cut into pieces)

2 tablespoons Jamaican curry powder

1 teaspoon allspice

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

4 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 large onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, minced

2-3 Scotch bonnet peppers (whole or chopped, depending on desired heat)

2 carrots, sliced

2 medium potatoes, diced

1 bell pepper (red or green), chopped

4 sprigs of fresh thyme

2 cups chicken broth or water

1 tablespoon white vinegar

2 scallions, chopped (for garnish)

Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix the chicken pieces with Jamaican curry powder, allspice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Ensure all pieces are well coated. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.

    Sear the Chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces (in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding) and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.

      Create the Base: In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and aromatic, about 5-7 minutes.

        Add Vegetables: Stir in the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and chopped bell pepper. Cook for another 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

          Combine and Simmer: Return the seared chicken to the pot. Add the Scotch bonnet peppers (note that whole peppers will impart heat without overwhelming the dish, while chopped will increase the spice level) and the fresh thyme. Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and stir to combine. Add white vinegar for an extra tangy flavor.

            Cook the Curry: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour or until the chicken is tender and cooked through, stirring occasionally. If the sauce gets too thick, add a little more broth or water.

              Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or curry powder according to preference.

                Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the Scotch bonnet peppers if you want to reduce heat. Garnish the curry chicken with chopped scallions and fresh cilantro before serving.

                  Serve: Enjoy your Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken with steamed rice, roti, or festival (a type of fried dumpling).

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour 15 minutes | Serves 4-6