– 2 lbs chicken (bone-in, skinless pieces)
– 3 tablespoons Jamaican curry powder
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 – 2 Scotch bonnet peppers (or your preferred chili, to taste)
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Creating Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken is straightforward. Follow these clear steps to bring this incredible dish to life:
1. Prep the Chicken: Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry. Cut it into bite-sized pieces if necessary.
2. Marinate: In a bowl, combine the chicken with Jamaican curry powder, salt, chopped onion, minced garlic, and Scotch bonnet peppers. Mix well, ensuring the chicken is coated in the marinade. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
3. Heat the Pan: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
4. Sear the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pot, leaving some space between them. Brown the chicken on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add Liquid: Pour in the water or chicken broth, making sure to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pot. These add flavor to the sauce.
6. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked, stirring occasionally.
7. Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or curry powder if necessary. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes.
8. Serve: Turn off the heat and let the dish rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.
These steps will lead you to a mouthwatering plate of Authentic Jamaican Curry Chicken that you and your guests will absolutely love!