Description
This Jamaican Stew Chicken recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken simmered in a rich, spicy sauce infused with traditional island spices like allspice, Scotch bonnet pepper, and fresh thyme. The combination of browning the chicken and slow simmering in a brown sugar caramelized base creates a deep, complex flavor perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 3 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces
- 2 tsp kosher salt, plus more as needed
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp ground allspice
Sauce
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp dark brown sugar
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 3 scallions, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, left whole
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1/4 cup ketchup (optional)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken pieces all over with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and ground allspice, ensuring an even coating of the spices for a flavorful base.
- Brown Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large heavy pot over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken in batches for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown. This step helps develop flavor and texture. Transfer the browned chicken to a plate.
- Caramelize Sugar: Lower the heat to medium. Add the dark brown sugar to the pot and stir constantly until it melts and turns a deep amber color, about 2 minutes. This creates a rich caramel base for the stew.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onion, scallions, minced garlic, and the whole Scotch bonnet pepper to the pot. Stir and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion softens and the mixture becomes fragrant.
- Add Chicken and Liquids: Return the browned chicken to the pot. Pour in chicken broth, soy sauce, and ketchup if using. Add the fresh thyme sprigs. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer Covered: Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 to 35 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the flavors to meld.
- Reduce Sauce: Uncover the pot and simmer uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes to thicken the sauce to a rich gravy consistency.
- Serve: Ladle the stew chicken into bowls, spoon the gravy over the top, and serve hot for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Notes
- Adjust the Scotch bonnet pepper to taste or remove it before serving to control spiciness.
- Bone-in chicken pieces retain moisture and flavor better than boneless.
- The ketchup is optional but adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Serve with rice and peas or fried plantains for a traditional Jamaican meal.
- If you prefer less oil, reduce the vegetable oil or substitute with a lighter oil like canola.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Jamaican
Keywords: Jamaican stew chicken, Caribbean chicken recipe, allspice chicken, spicy chicken stew, Scotch bonnet pepper chicken, traditional Jamaican dish
