Ultimate Brown Stew Chicken Jamaican Recipe – Flavorful Delight

Brown stew chicken Jamaican is like a warm hug on a plate, full of rich flavors and tender chicken that melts in your mouth. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen, as garlic, thyme, and ginger mingle in harmony, practically begging you to take a bite.

This dish has a special place in my heart. Growing up, my grandmother would whip up brown stew chicken whenever family gathered for Sunday dinner. The excitement in the air was palpable as the savory aromas wrapped around us like a cozy blanket, making it impossible to resist devouring seconds—and sometimes thirds!

One memorable evening, I prepared this dish for friends who had never tasted true Jamaican cuisine. Their faces lit up with joy after the first bite—definitely a night to remember!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Chicken Pieces: Use bone-in chicken pieces for rich flavor; thighs and drumsticks work best.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will give you the best aromatic punch; crush them for maximum flavor.

• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; slice it thinly so it cooks evenly.

• Bell Peppers: Red and green bell peppers add color and crunch; choose firm ones for freshness.

• Thyme: Fresh thyme gives an earthy flavor; if using dried thyme, use half the amount.

• Scotch Bonnet Pepper: For heat lovers, this pepper adds authentic spice; adjust according to your heat preference.

• Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce enhances umami without overpowering the dish’s natural flavors.

• Tomatoes: Use fresh tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes; they bring acidity and balance to the stew.

• Carrots: Sliced carrots add sweetness and color; ensure they are cut evenly for consistent cooking.

• Cooking Oil: Use vegetable or coconut oil for frying—each adds its unique flair to the dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Marinate the Chicken: Begin by washing your chicken pieces thoroughly before marinating them with salt, pepper, garlic, thyme, and soy sauce. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb all those delicious flavors.

Sear the Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken pieces skin-side down until browned on all sides—about 5-7 minutes per side—creating that enticing golden crust.

Add Aromatics and Veggies: Toss in sliced onions, garlic, bell peppers, scotch bonnet pepper, and carrots once the chicken is seared. Stir well until veggies soften slightly and fill your kitchen with delightful aromas—about 3-4 minutes should do.

Create the Sauce Base: Pour in diced tomatoes along with some water or broth into the pan. Cover it with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes until the chicken becomes tender and juicy.

Check for Flavor Balance: Taste your sauce near the end of cooking time. If needed, adjust seasoning with extra salt or soy sauce to achieve that perfect savory balance.

Serve It Up!: Once cooked through and tantalizingly fragrant, serve your brown stew chicken Jamaican over rice or alongside fried plantains for an authentic experience that will leave everyone craving more!

Embrace this flavorful journey as you enjoy every bite of this irresistible dish!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken until golden brown, then simmer with vegetables and sauce to lock in flavors. This method ensures juicy chicken while allowing the spices to work their magic.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out bell peppers for your favorite veggies or add scotch bonnet for extra heat. These tweaks can personalize the dish to match your taste buds perfectly.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to maintain flavor and moisture.

Cooking brown stew chicken Jamaican reminds me of family gatherings where laughter filled the air as we savored every bite together.

FAQ

What spices are essential for brown stew chicken Jamaican?

Key spices include allspice, thyme, garlic, and ginger for authentic flavor.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add more moisture and flavor to the stew.

How can I make it spicier?

Add chopped scotch bonnet peppers or cayenne pepper for extra heat in your stew.