Growing up in Jamaica, brown stew chicken was a staple in our household, making an appearance on our dinner table at least once or twice a week. My grandma had the best recipe, perfected through years of tradition and love.

Today, I'm excited to share with you her authentic Jamaican brown stew chicken recipe, just the way she would make it. This dish is a flavorful and hearty representation of Jamaican cuisine, and it's sure to bring a taste of the Caribbean right into your home.

Highlights of This Dish

1. Rich, Flavorful Sauce:

   • The brown stew chicken is simmered in a deliciously rich and savory sauce made with browning sauce, soy sauce, fresh vegetables, and spices, creating a depth of flavor that's both comforting and satisfying.

2. Authentic Jamaican Spices:

   • The use of allspice (pimento) and Scotch bonnet pepper brings an authentic Jamaican kick to the dish, adding layers of warmth and spice that are characteristic of Caribbean cuisine.

3. Tender, Juicy Chicken:

   • The chicken is marinated and then browned to seal in the juices, ensuring each piece is tender and succulent after simmering in the flavorful sauce.

4. Versatile Pairings:

   • This dish pairs beautifully with traditional Jamaican sides like rice and peas, fried plantains, or steamed vegetables, making it a versatile option for any meal.

5. Homemade Comfort Food:

   • Inspired by a cherished family recipe, this brown stew chicken is the ultimate comfort food, bringing the heart and soul of Jamaican home cooking to your table.

6. Simple Ingredients, Bold Flavors:

   • Using common ingredients like chicken, onions, garlic, bell peppers, and thyme, this recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a bold, aromatic, and mouthwatering meal.

7. Perfect for Meal Prep:

   • This dish can be made in larger batches and reheats wonderfully, making it an excellent option for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe:

1. Chicken:

   Use a whole chicken cut into pieces for a mix of dark and white meat, which adds variety and richness to the dish. If you prefer, you can use only thighs, drumsticks, or breasts.

2. Limes or Vinegar:

   Cleaning the chicken with lime juice or vinegar is a traditional method in Jamaican cooking to remove any unwanted odors and add a fresh, clean taste.

3. Browning Sauce:

   This is key to achieving the deep, rich color and flavor of the stew. Browning sauce can be found in most Caribbean or international grocery stores.

4. Soy Sauce:

   Adds a savory, umami flavor and complements the browning sauce. Opt for a low-sodium version if you're watching your salt intake.

5. Fresh Thyme:

   Fresh thyme provides a more vibrant and aromatic flavor compared to dried thyme. However, dried thyme can be used in a pinch.

6. Scotch Bonnet Pepper:

   Known for its heat and fruity flavor, Scotch bonnet pepper is a staple in Jamaican cooking. Handle with care, and adjust the amount according to your heat tolerance.

7. Allspice (Pimento) Powder:

   This spice gives the dish its distinctive Jamaican flavor. Whole allspice berries can be ground if you prefer a fresher, more potent flavor.

8. Vegetables:

   Onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, scallions, and carrots not only add flavor but also contribute to the nutritional value and texture of the stew.

9. Brown Sugar:

   Caramelizing the sugar at the start adds a subtle sweetness and helps develop the rich, brown color of the stew.

10. Chicken Broth:

    Using chicken broth instead of water enhances the flavor of the stew. You can use homemade broth or store-bought, preferably low-sodium.

11. Ketchup:

    This optional ingredient adds a slight tang and sweetness to balance the flavors. It's a common addition in many Jamaican kitchens.

12. Fresh Ginger:

    Another optional ingredient, fresh ginger adds a zesty, warming flavor that complements the other spices beautifully.

Preparing and Marinating the Chicken

Properly preparing and marinating the chicken is essential for achieving the authentic flavor and tenderness of Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken. Follow these steps to ensure your chicken is perfectly prepped and seasoned:

1. Clean the Chicken:

   • Start by washing the chicken pieces thoroughly with cold water.

   • Rub each piece with lime juice or vinegar to remove any odors and to help tenderize the meat. Rinse well and pat dry with paper towels.

2. Cut and Trim:

   • If using a whole chicken, cut it into manageable pieces (thighs, drumsticks, wings, and breasts). Trim off any excess fat and skin as desired.

   • Ingredients for Marinating:

     • 2 tbsp browning sauce

     • 1 large onion, chopped

     • 3 cloves garlic, minced

     • 2 tsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)

     • 1 large bell pepper, chopped

     • 2 medium tomatoes, chopped

     • 2 stalks of scallion, chopped

     • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated (optional)

     • 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (optional, for heat)

     • 2 tsp allspice (pimento) powder or pimento seeds

     • Salt and pepper to taste

     • 1/2 tablespoon paprika

     • 1/2 tablespoon Old bay seasoning

     • 1/2 tablespoon adobo or meat seasoning

   • Steps:

     1. In a large bowl, combine the cleaned and cut chicken pieces with the browning sauce and soy sauce. Mix well to coat all the pieces evenly.

     2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh thyme, bell pepper, tomatoes, scallion, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Sprinkle in the paprika, old bay and meat seasoning, allspice powder, salt, and pepper.

     3. Use your hands or a large spoon to thoroughly mix and massage the marinade into the chicken, ensuring every piece is well coated with the seasoning and vegetables.

     4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade to a large ziplock bag. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but for the best results, let it marinate overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

By following these steps, you'll ensure your chicken is not only clean but also deeply infused with the rich, aromatic flavors that make Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken so special.