Jamaican Coconut Curry Chicken: A Taste of Home and Tradition

Growing up, the smell of curry chicken simmering on the stove instantly brought me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. She would hum softly as she carefully seasoned the chicken, using a mix of spices she had perfected over the years. For my family, Jamaican Coconut Curry Chicken wasn’t just a meal—it was a tradition, a connection to our roots, and a reminder of the love and care that went into every dish she prepared.

The History of Jamaican Curry Chicken

Jamaican curry chicken is deeply rooted in the island’s culinary traditions, influenced by Indian, African, and indigenous cooking styles. Brought to Jamaica by Indian indentured laborers in the 19th century, curry became an essential part of the island's cuisine, evolving with local spices and cooking techniques. Today, it remains a beloved dish across the Caribbean and a staple in many households, including mine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavor: Made with traditional Jamaican curry powder and fresh ingredients, just like Grandma used to make.

• Creamy & Rich: The addition of coconut milk gives the dish a smooth, velvety texture that reminds me of home.

• Easy to Make: Simple steps, big flavors, and a dish that tastes even better the next day!

• Nutritious & Balanced: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and nutrient-rich spices.

Health Benefits of Jamaican Curry Chicken

This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:

• Turmeric & Curry Powder: Known for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

• Coconut Milk: Provides healthy fats that support heart and brain health.

• Scotch Bonnet Pepper: High in vitamin C and metabolism-boosting capsaicin.

• Garlic & Ginger: Promote immune health and digestion.

Grandma’s Tips for the Best Curry Chicken:

• Marinate for Maximum Flavor: The longer the chicken marinates, the deeper the flavors. Overnight is best!

• Burn the Curry: Cooking the curry powder in oil before adding the chicken enhances its flavor.

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, remove the seeds from the Scotch bonnet or use a milder pepper.

• Thicken the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer uncovered or mash some of the potatoes.

• Substitutions: If you don’t have thyme, try using a bay leaf or chopped scallions for a similar earthy taste.

Serving Suggestions:

• With White Rice: Classic and simple, perfect for soaking up the curry sauce.

• With Rice & Peas: A traditional Caribbean pairing that adds even more flavor.

• With Roti or Boiled Food: Great for a more filling, hearty meal.

Print

With ImageWithout Image

Jamaican Coconut Curry Chicken: A Taste of Home and Tradition

Yield 4-6

Author Kim Alexander

Prep time

15 Min

Cook time

45 Min

Total time

1 Hour

Cook modePrevent screen from turning off

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken (bone-in, skin removed, cut into pieces)
• 2 tbsp Jamaican curry powder
• 1 tsp all-purpose seasoning
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp ginger powder (or 1 tsp fresh grated ginger)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 sprigs thyme (or substitute with ½ tsp dried thyme, scallions, or a bay leaf)
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 carrot, sliced (optional)
• 2 tbsp oil (coconut or vegetable oil preferred)
• 1 ½ cups coconut milk
• 1 cup water or chicken broth
• ½ tsp pimento (allspice), crushed
• ½ tsp turmeric (optional, for extra color)
• 1 tbsp green seasoning (if available)

Instructions

1. Wash chicken with lime/vinegar and water, then drain.
2. Season with curry powder, all-purpose seasoning, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, ginger, pimento, and green seasoning (if using).
3. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, just like Grandma used to do for deeper flavor.
4. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
5. Add 1 tsp of curry powder to the oil and let it "burn" for about 30 seconds to release the flavors—this was one of my grandmother’s secret tricks for an extra rich curry.
6. Add the seasoned chicken to the pot and stir. Let it brown for 5–7 minutes on each side.
7. Add onion, garlic, thyme (or substitute), Scotch bonnet, and turmeric. Stir well.
8. Pour in 1 cup of water or broth, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
9. Stir in coconut milk, potatoes, and carrots.
10. Let it simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes until the sauce thickens and the potatoes are tender.
11. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
12. Serve hot with your favorite side dish! I love to pair my curry chicken with a side of white rice.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

598

Fat

42 g

Sat. Fat

21 g

Carbs

32 g

Fiber

7 g

Net carbs

26 g

Sugar

3 g

Protein

26 g

Sodium

909 mg

Cholesterol

83 mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes! While bone-in chicken provides more flavor, boneless chicken thighs or breasts work well and reduce cooking time slightly.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, curry chicken tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

3. What can I use instead of Scotch bonnet pepper?

You can substitute with habanero pepper or use cayenne pepper for a milder heat.

4. Can I freeze curry chicken?

Yes! Store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

5. Is coconut milk necessary?

No, but it adds a creamy richness. You can replace it with more broth or a dairy-free alternative if needed.

Similar Recipes

Creamy Caribbean Rasta Pasta with Jerk Shrimp (Holiday Showstopper)

Authentic Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken: A Taste of Home

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @HomeCookVibe on instagram and hashtag it #homecookblog

Jamaican Coconut Curry Chicken is more than just a meal for me—it’s a cherished family tradition, passed down from my grandmother’s loving hands to mine. The rich aroma, the comforting taste, and the warm memories tied to this dish make it one of my favorites. Every time I cook this, I feel connected to my roots and the generations before me who shared meals filled with love and laughter.

If you’ve never tried making this dish, I encourage you to do so—it’s a taste of the Caribbean and a dish that brings families together. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or just treating yourself, this recipe will have everyone coming back for more.

For more delicious recipes, cooking tips, and cultural insights, be sure to follow my blog and share your culinary experiences with me below. Enjoy! 🇯🇲