Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken

Introduction

Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken is a traditional Caribbean dish that offers a delicious balance of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors. Known for its rich and aromatic sauce, this dish is a staple in Jamaican households and is often served with rice and peas, fried dumplings, or vegetables. The browning sauce and scotch bonnet pepper are key ingredients that bring the dish its signature flavor and heat.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 pounds chicken (drumsticks, thighs, or a mix)
• 1 lime or lemon (for washing chicken)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon all-purpose seasoning
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 3 scallions, chopped
• 1 sprig of thyme
• 1 scotch bonnet pepper (whole or sliced, optional for spice)
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon browning sauce
• 1 cup chicken stock or water

Directions

1. Wash chicken pieces with lime or lemon and water, then pat dry.
2. Season chicken with salt, black pepper, paprika, all-purpose seasoning, and soy sauce. Let marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown chicken pieces on all sides. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, sauté onion, bell pepper, garlic, carrots, and scallions until softened.
5. Add thyme, scotch bonnet pepper, ketchup, and browning sauce to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
6. Pour in chicken stock or water, and bring to a simmer.
7. Return chicken to the skillet, ensuring the pieces are nestled into the sauce. Cover and let simmer for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with rice, fried dumplings, or your favorite sides.

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cooking Time

40 minutes

Total Time

55 minutes

Nutrition

Kcal: 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings

History

Brown Stew Chicken is a well-known Jamaican dish with roots in African and indigenous Caribbean cuisine. It reflects the fusion of flavors from the island’s diverse history, with influences from African, Spanish, and British colonization. The use of browning sauce to create a rich color and flavor is a hallmark of Jamaican cooking, adding a deep caramelized taste to the dish. Over time, this dish has become a household favorite in Jamaica and across the Caribbean diaspora, cherished for its comfort and flavor.

Benefits

Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The chicken provides a great source of protein, essential for muscle building and repair. The vegetables, like carrots, onions, and bell peppers, add vitamins and fiber, supporting overall health. Additionally, the thyme and scotch bonnet pepper are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and aid in digestion. The dish is balanced and can be a part of a healthy meal when paired with nutrient-rich sides like rice or vegetables.

Conclusion

Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish that brings the taste of the Caribbean right to your plate. With its bold seasoning, rich sauce, and tender chicken, it is a dish that will surely satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re new to Caribbean cuisine or a seasoned lover of these flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Serve it with your choice of sides, and enjoy the tastes of Jamaica!

Lovers of Jamaican Cuisine

This recipe is ideal for those who love bold, flavorful, and spicy dishes. The combination of savory and spicy flavors in Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken will appeal to anyone who enjoys rich, comforting meals. Whether you’re a fan of Caribbean cooking or just looking for a new recipe to try, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or a special dinner.