The Best Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Caribbean Flavor: Experience the true taste of Jamaica with this traditional recipe that brings island flavors to your kitchen.

• Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with protein and vegetables, this stew is a complete meal that fills and comforts.

• Perfect for Gatherings: Its rich flavors and appealing presentation make it a hit at family dinners and social events.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken legs and boneless, skinless thighs

• Oil for browning

• Scallions (green onions)

• Onion, bell pepper, and carrot

• Tomato sauce

• Browning sauce

• Brown sugar

• Smoked paprika

• Ground Jamaican allspice

• Ground ginger

• Salt and pepper

• Bay leaves

• Whole scotch bonnet pepper

• Chicken stock or broth

• Garlic (cloves, minced, or paste)

• Fresh thyme

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, ground allspice, and ground ginger. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

2. Brown the Chicken: In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides, then remove and set aside.

3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add chopped scallions, onion, bell pepper, and carrot. Sauté until vegetables are softened.

4. Build the Stew: Stir in tomato sauce, browning sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and fresh thyme. Add bay leaves and the whole scotch bonnet pepper.

5. Combine and Simmer: Return the browned chicken to the pot. Pour in chicken stock to cover the chicken. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the flavors are well combined.

6. Final Touches: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the scotch bonnet pepper and bay leaves before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour

• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Protein Swap: Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for a richer flavor.

• Vegetable Additions: Incorporate potatoes or peas for added texture and nutrition.

• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding or reducing the amount of scotch bonnet pepper.

• Citrus Twist: Add a splash of lime juice for a zesty kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Allow the stew to cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in a covered dish, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

What is browning sauce, and where can I find it?

Browning sauce is a dark, flavorful liquid used to add depth and color to dishes. It's commonly found in Caribbean markets or the international aisle of many supermarkets.

Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of thighs?

While you can use chicken breasts, thighs are preferred for their tenderness and flavor in stews.

Is it necessary to use a scotch bonnet pepper?

Scotch bonnet peppers add authentic heat and flavor. If unavailable, habanero peppers are a good substitute, or you can omit them for a milder dish.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, brown stew chicken tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

What sides pair well with brown stew chicken?

Traditional sides include rice and peas, steamed white rice, fried plantains, or a simple green salad.

How can I thicken the stew if it's too watery?

Simmer the stew uncovered to reduce the liquid, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, after browning the chicken and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe is gluten-free if all ingredients, including the browning sauce and chicken stock, are certified gluten-free.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level can be adjusted by reducing or omitting the scotch bonnet pepper or using a milder pepper.

Can I add more vegetables to the stew?

Yes, feel free to add potatoes, peas, or even sweet peppers to enhance the dish.

Conclusion

Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that will bring the taste of the Caribbean to your table. Its rich, savory sauce, tender chicken, and blend of spices make it an unforgettable meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a comforting weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress.

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Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken is a delicious Caribbean dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a rich, flavorful brown sauce. This hearty stew, made with a perfect blend of spices, vegetables, and scotch bonnet pepper, offers an authentic Jamaican taste that will transport your taste buds straight to the islands. Perfect for family gatherings or as a comforting weeknight meal.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Jamaican, Caribbea
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Chicken legs and boneless, skinless thighs

Oil for browning

Scallions (green onions)

Onion, bell pepper, and carrot

Tomato sauce

Browning sauce

Brown sugar

Smoked paprika

Ground Jamaican allspice

Ground ginger

Salt and pepper

Bay leaves

Whole scotch bonnet pepper

Chicken stock or broth

Garlic (cloves, minced, or paste)

Fresh thyme

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Instructions

• Marinate the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, ground allspice, and ground ginger. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

• Brown the Chicken: In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides, then remove and set aside.

• Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add chopped scallions, onion, bell pepper, and carrot. Sauté until vegetables are softened.

• Build the Stew: Stir in tomato sauce, browning sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and fresh thyme. Add bay leaves and the whole scotch bonnet pepper.

• Combine and Simmer: Return the browned chicken to the pot. Pour in chicken stock to cover the chicken. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the flavors are well combined.

• Final Touches: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the scotch bonnet pepper and bay leaves before serving.

Notes

• Protein Swap: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor.

• Vegetable Additions: You can add potatoes or peas to the stew for extra texture.

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet pepper for desired heat level.

• Citrus Twist: A splash of lime juice can be added for a zesty flavor.