Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by washing the chicken pieces with lime or lemon juice and water. Pat them dry with paper towels.
Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, paprika, all-purpose seasoning, and soy sauce. Set it aside to marinate for at least 1 hour, or, if time allows, overnight for the best flavor.
In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and brown the pieces on all sides. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped scallions. Sauté these until they are softened.
Add the sprig of thyme and scotch bonnet pepper (sliced if you want more spice), ketchup, and a splash of browning sauce. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Pour in chicken stock or water, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Return the chicken to the skillet, making sure the pieces are nestled into the sauce.
Cover and let everything simmer for about 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Serve hot with rice, fried dumplings, or your favorite sides.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken is best served warm, and there are many creative ways to enjoy it. Traditional pairings include fluffy white rice or coconut rice to soak up that delicious sauce. Fried plantains add a sweet contrast, while steamed vegetables balance the meal with freshness. For a crunchy twist, you might also consider serving it with fried dumplings, giving you a delightful mix of flavors and textures.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

Storing Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken is simple. Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator, where they will keep for about 3 to 4 days. If you’d like to enjoy the dish later, consider freezing it in portions; just be sure to consume it within two to three months for optimal flavor.

Always remember to reheat leftovers thoroughly, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure food safety.

Pro Chef Tips

Marination Time: While marinating the chicken for just one hour can enhance flavor, consider overnight marination for the most succulent result.
Balancing Spice: If you’re sensitive to heat but want that authentic Jamaican flavor, consider removing the seeds from the scotch bonnet pepper. Alternatively, adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance.
Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, feel free to simmer it longer after adding the chicken or stir in a bit of cornstarch mixed with water.

Creative Twists

Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken can easily be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are a few variations to consider:

Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like eggplant, mushrooms, and zucchini. You can still follow the same preparation method for a satisfying meatless meal.
Jerk Influence: For an extra kick, consider adding jerk seasoning during the marination process.
Coconut Flavor: Add a splash of coconut milk when simmering for a creamy, tropical twist.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to make Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken?
The total time, including marination, is approximately 1.5 hours if you marinate for an hour, plus 35 minutes of cooking time.