Name: Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Jamaican
Ingredients: 2 ½ pounds bone-in chicken (drumsticks or thighs); 2 tablespoons Jamaican curry powder (plus 1 tsp for toasting); 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 Scotch bonnet pepper or habanero, chopped; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 3 sprigs fresh thyme; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 medium carrot, sliced (optional); 2 cups water (or enough to cover chicken halfway)

This Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is a bold and hearty dish bursting with flavor. Made with bone-in chicken, fragrant curry spices, and simmered with potatoes until tender, it’s a weeknight comfort food that tastes like it’s been cooking all day. Every bite is infused with deep Caribbean warmth—a balance of savory, spicy, and rich turmeric hues that make this dish truly unforgettable.

If you’ve ever had Jamaican curry, you know it’s unlike any other. This dish is a staple in Jamaican households for good reason: it comes together simply, yet the flavors are layered and full of depth. Serve it over white rice or with roti for a soul-satisfying dinner that brings the island right to your table.

What Kind of Curry Powder Should I Use?

Not all curry powders are created equal, and for this recipe, Jamaican curry powder is essential. Look for brands like Betapac, Blue Mountain, or Grace, which offer that signature yellow hue and a distinct flavor profile with bold turmeric and allspice notes. These blends differ from Indian curry powders in both heat and seasoning, so sticking with an authentic Jamaican mix makes a noticeable difference.

Ingredients for the Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Bone-In Chicken Pieces (leg quarters, drumsticks, or thighs): These cuts hold flavor better and stay tender during simmering. Bone-in gives you the richness that makes the curry deeply satisfying.

Jamaican Curry Powder: The heart of the dish. It delivers that unmistakable earthy, slightly sweet, and spicy punch.

Onion & Garlic: These aromatics build a base for the sauce, infusing every spoonful with depth.

Scotch Bonnet Pepper (or habanero): Adds authentic heat. Start with half if you’re spice-sensitive, but don’t skip it altogether!

Fresh Thyme: A must-have in Caribbean cooking. Adds herbal warmth that complements the curry beautifully.

Ginger: Freshly grated ginger adds brightness and zing.

Potatoes: They soak up all the curry goodness and help thicken the sauce naturally.

Carrots (optional): For a subtle sweetness and pop of color.

Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for balancing all the bold flavors.

Vegetable Oil: Used to brown the chicken and release the curry’s aroma before simmering.

How To Make the Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken

Step 1: Season and Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, season the bone-in chicken with curry powder, salt, black pepper, garlic, ginger, and a bit of oil. Massage everything into the meat well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for even deeper flavor).

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add a teaspoon of curry powder to the oil—this “toasts” the spice and intensifies its flavor. Add the marinated chicken pieces and brown them on all sides. Don’t overcrowd the pot; brown in batches if needed.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the pot. In the same pot, sauté chopped onions, garlic, and thyme until softened and golden. Add the Scotch bonnet pepper and stir gently.

Step 4: Simmer with Vegetables

Return the browned chicken to the pot. Add peeled and chopped potatoes (and carrots if using), then pour in enough water to cover the chicken halfway. Stir and bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Let the Flavors Develop

Cover and let the curry simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should reduce and thicken as the potatoes break down slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve your Jamaican curry chicken over steamed white rice or with a warm roti. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a burst of color.

How to Serve and Store Jamaican Curry Chicken

This dish is best served hot over a bed of fluffy jasmine or basmati rice. It also pairs beautifully with roti, coconut rice, or even a side of fried plantains for a true island feast.

To store leftovers, allow the curry to cool completely. Transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this curry?

It has a noticeable kick, thanks to the Scotch bonnet pepper, but you can adjust the heat by using less or omitting it entirely. For mild spice, remove the seeds from the pepper before adding.

Can I use boneless chicken instead?

Yes, boneless thighs work well if you prefer them. Just reduce the simmering time slightly to prevent overcooking.

What makes Jamaican curry different from other curries?

Jamaican curry powder typically includes turmeric, allspice, and sometimes ginger. It’s more vibrant in color and has a slightly sweeter, earthier taste compared to Indian curry powders.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Brown the chicken and sauté aromatics first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours.

What kind of potatoes work best?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds hold their shape well, but russets are fine too—they’ll just break down more and thicken the sauce.

Is this curry gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your curry powder and other ingredients are certified gluten-free, the dish is naturally gluten-free.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken, check out these other bold and comforting favorites:

Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot for tender bites in a sticky, savory glaze.
Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet if you’re craving a creamy skillet meal with rich flavor.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli for a pasta night done right.
Easy Thai Red Curry Dumpling Soup when you’re in the mood for comfort with a kick.
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes for your next cozy Sunday dinner.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Life with Jam on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you use boneless chicken or bone-in? Add extra heat? Share your twist—I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too!