Get ready to bring the bold, spicy, and savory flavors of Jamaica straight to your kitchen with this authentic Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken! This iconic Caribbean dish is known for its deep, rich flavor, thanks to a perfect blend of aromatic spices, tender chicken, and a flavorful brown sauce made with peppers, onions, garlic, and herbs.
This hearty meal is comfort food at its best and is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or whenever you're craving a taste of the tropics. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to make your taste buds dance! 🇯🇲🍗
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Authentic Jamaican Flavor: Made with traditional seasonings and techniques.
✔ Rich and Saucy: Tender chicken coated in a flavorful brown sauce.
✔ Easy to Make: Simple steps to create a dish that looks and tastes impressive.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 lbs chicken (legs, thighs, or drumsticks)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (or vinegar)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional for extra heat)
For the Brown Stew Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (red, yellow, or green)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
How to Make Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
1️⃣ Wash the chicken with lime juice or vinegar, then pat it dry.
2️⃣ In a bowl, season the chicken with garlic, ginger, thyme, paprika, allspice, black pepper, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using).
3️⃣ Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight in the fridge for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
1️⃣ Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2️⃣ Add the brown sugar and let it caramelize until it turns dark brown (about 2 minutes).
3️⃣ Carefully add the marinated chicken and brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
1️⃣ In the same pan, add onions, bell peppers, green onions, and garlic. Sauté until fragrant.
2️⃣ Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, soy sauce, ketchup, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Stew the Chicken
1️⃣ Return the browned chicken to the pan, ensuring it’s coated with the sauce.
2️⃣ Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes, until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened.
3️⃣ Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, and serve hot!
Serving Suggestions
🍚 Serve over steamed white rice for a classic pairing.
🍠 Pair with boiled yams, plantains, or dumplings for an authentic Jamaican experience.
🥗 Add a side of coleslaw or fresh salad for a refreshing contrast.
Tips for the Best Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken
✔ Let the chicken marinate overnight for the best flavor.
✔ Adjust the heat by adding or omitting Scotch bonnet peppers.
✔ Don’t skip the caramelized sugar step—this is key to achieving the rich brown color and depth of flavor.
✔ Use bone-in chicken for the juiciest, most flavorful results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I Use Boneless Chicken?
Yes, you can, but bone-in chicken is recommended for a more authentic, juicy dish.
2. Is It Spicy?
Traditional Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken can be spicy due to Scotch bonnet peppers, but you can reduce the heat by using milder peppers or skipping them altogether.
3. Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to deepen.
A Taste of Jamaica in Every Bite
Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken is a flavorful, satisfying dish that brings the heart and soul of Jamaican cooking to your table. Whether you’re new to Caribbean cuisine or already a fan, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.
So, gather your ingredients, turn on some reggae music 🎶, and get ready to enjoy a delicious taste of Jamaica! 🇯🇲🍗
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