Name: Jamaican Brown Chicken Stew Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: 6 bone-in chicken legs with thighs attached; ¼ cup lime juice; 1 large tomato; 4 medium scallions; 1 Large Onion; 2 garlic cloves; 1 hot scotch bonnet pepper; 4 sprigs Fresh Thyme; 2 tbsp low sodium soy sauce; 1 tsp coconut oil; 1 medium carrot; 2 tsp cornstarch; 1½ cups unsweetened light coconut milk; ¼ tsp kosher salt

Jamaican brown chicken stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together the rich and vibrant tastes of the Caribbean. This comforting stew is perfect for any occasion, combining tender chicken with a medley of seasonings and coconut milk to create a truly unforgettable meal.

Photos of Jamaican Brown Chicken Stew Recipe

For those unfamiliar with certain ingredients in this recipe, scotch bonnet pepper and fresh thyme might be less common. Scotch bonnet pepper is a hot chili pepper that adds a distinct heat, while fresh thyme offers a fragrant herbal note. Both can typically be found in the produce section of larger supermarkets or specialty stores.

Ingredients For Jamaican Brown Chicken Stew

Chicken legs with thighs attached: Provides the main protein and base of the stew

Lime juice: Adds acidity and helps tenderize the chicken

Tomato: Contributes to the stew's richness and depth of flavor

Scallions: Imparts a mild onion-like taste

Onion: Adds sweetness and complexity

Garlic cloves: Enhances the overall flavor with its pungency

Scotch bonnet pepper: Brings a spicy kick

Fresh thyme: Adds an aromatic herbal note

Low sodium soy sauce: Adds umami and saltiness

Coconut oil: For browning the chicken and adding a subtle coconut flavor

Carrot: Adds sweetness and texture

Cornstarch: Thickens the stew

Unsweetened light coconut milk: Adds creaminess and a slight coconut flavor

Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors

One reader, Bud Schubert says:

This Jamaican brown chicken stew recipe is fantastic! The flavors are rich and authentic, with a perfect blend of spices. The chicken is tender and juicy, and the coconut milk adds a delightful creaminess. It's a comforting and satisfying dish that's sure to impress. Highly recommend!

Bud Schubert

Techniques Required for Jamaican Brown Chicken Stew Recipe

Yes.

How to squeeze lime juice: Cut the lime in half and squeeze each half over the chicken to extract the juice. How to chop vegetables: Dice the tomato, scallions, onion, garlic, and scotch bonnet pepper into small pieces. How to marinate chicken: Combine the chopped vegetables, thyme, and soy sauce with the chicken, cover, and let it sit for at least one hour. How to brown chicken: Heat oil in a pot, shake off excess marinade from the chicken, and cook until browned on all sides. How to mix cornstarch and coconut milk: Combine cornstarch with coconut milk, stirring until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.

How To Make Jamaican Brown Chicken Stew

Get a taste of the Caribbean with this Jamaican brown chicken stew. It’s spicy and creamy made with Bonnet peppers and coconut milk. This dish is a must-try

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Marinate Time: 1 hour

Total: 1 hour 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

6bone-in chicken legs with thighs attached,skin removed
¼cuplime juice
1large tomato,chopped
4medium scallions,chopped
1large onion,chopped
2garliccloves,chopped
1hot scotch bonnet pepper,chopped
4sprigsfresh thyme
2tbsplow sodium soy sauce
1tspcoconut oil
1medium carrot,chopped finely
2tspcornstarch
1½cupsunsweetened light coconut milk
¼tspkosher salt

Instructions

Squeeze lime over chicken and rub well.
Drain off excess lime juice.
Using gloves combine tomato, scallion, onion, garlic, scotch bonnet pepper, thyme and soy sauce in a large bowl and add to the chicken.
Cover and marinate at least one hour.
Heat oil in a dutch pot or large saucepan.
Shake off the seasonings as you remove each piece of chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later.
Lightly brown the chicken on medium-high heat.
When browned on all sides, pour the marinade over the chicken and add the carrots.
Stir and cook over medium heat for 10 minutes.
Mix cornstarch and coconut milk and add to stew, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and cook an additional 20 minutes or until tender, add salt to taste.

Nutrition

Calories: 821.84kcal
Fat: 59.77g
Saturated Fat: 18.71g
Trans Fat: 0.21g
Monounsaturated Fat: 22.83g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 11.61g
Carbohydrates: 9.46g
Fiber: 1.70g
Sugar: 3.71g
Protein: 57.76g
Cholesterol: 319.92mg
Sodium: 561.19mg
Calcium: 62.75mg
Potassium: 903.48mg
Iron: 3.13mg
Vitamin A: 202.41µg
Vitamin C: 15.52mg

Technique Tip for Jamaican Brown Chicken Stew Recipe

When browning the chicken, make sure to do it in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can cause the chicken to steam rather than brown, which will affect the flavor and texture of your stew.

Time-Saving Tips for Jamaican Brown Chicken Stew

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop the tomato, scallions, onion, garlic, and carrot in advance to save time during cooking.

Marinate overnight: Let the chicken marinate overnight to enhance flavor and reduce prep time on cooking day.

Use pre-cut veggies: Purchase pre-cut vegetables to minimize chopping time.

Instant pot option: Use an Instant Pot to speed up the cooking process while still achieving tender, flavorful results.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.

Substitute Ingredients For Jamaican Brown Chicken Stew Recipe

bone-in chicken legs with thighs attached - Substitute with bone-in chicken breasts: They provide a similar texture and flavor, though the cooking time may need adjustment.
lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor.
tomato - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: They provide a similar texture and flavor, especially when fresh tomatoes are not in season.
scallions - Substitute with leeks: Leeks offer a mild onion flavor similar to scallions.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a similar but slightly sweeter flavor.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor, though fresh garlic is preferred for texture.
hot scotch bonnet pepper - Substitute with habanero pepper: Habanero peppers offer a similar heat level and flavor profile.
fresh thyme - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can be used in place of fresh thyme, though the flavor may be slightly less vibrant.
low sodium soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari provides a similar umami flavor and is also gluten-free.
coconut oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used for cooking and provides a different but complementary flavor.
carrot - Substitute with parsnip: Parsnips offer a similar texture and a slightly sweeter flavor.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can thicken sauces similarly to cornstarch.
unsweetened light coconut milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk provides a similar consistency, though the flavor will be different.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt offers a similar level of salinity and can be used interchangeably.

Presenting Jamaican Brown Chicken Stew

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the chicken in individual portions, ensuring each plate has one chicken leg with thigh attached. This allows for a refined and elegant presentation.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a sprig of fresh thyme and a thin slice of scotch bonnet pepper for a pop of color and hint of the dish's heat.
Layer the flavors: Place a bed of carrot slices and scallion rings beneath the chicken, allowing the vibrant colors to contrast with the rich brown stew.
Highlight the sauce: Drizzle the coconut milk and cornstarch mixture over the chicken just before serving, ensuring it glistens and adds a creamy texture to the dish.
Add texture: Include a side of crispy plantain chips or a small serving of rice and peas to complement the stew and provide a delightful crunch.
Use high-quality plating: Serve the dish on a pristine white plate to make the colors of the stew and garnishes stand out, emphasizing the dish's visual appeal.
Balance the elements: Ensure each plate has a balanced amount of chicken, vegetables, and sauce, creating a harmonious and well-rounded presentation.
Incorporate height: Stack the chicken pieces slightly to add height to the dish, making it look more dynamic and visually interesting.
Finish with a flourish: Add a final touch of freshly chopped scallions and a light sprinkle of kosher salt just before serving to enhance the flavors and add a touch of elegance.

Essential Tools for Making Jamaican Brown Chicken Stew

Dutch pot: A heavy-duty pot, often made of cast iron, perfect for browning and slow-cooking the chicken to develop deep flavors.
Large saucepan: An alternative to the Dutch pot, useful for browning the chicken and simmering the stew.
Gloves: Essential for handling the hot scotch bonnet pepper safely and for mixing the marinade without direct contact.
Large bowl: Used for combining the chicken with the marinade ingredients and allowing it to marinate.
Tongs: Handy for turning the chicken pieces while browning them in the pot.
Knife: Necessary for chopping the tomato, scallions, onion, garlic, and scotch bonnet pepper.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping all the vegetables and herbs.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the lime juice, soy sauce, and coconut milk accurately.
Measuring spoons: Useful for measuring the coconut oil, cornstarch, and salt.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the stew and ensuring even cooking.
Small bowl: Used to mix the cornstarch and coconut milk before adding it to the stew.
Lid: Needed to cover the pot while the stew simmers, helping to retain moisture and flavors.

Storing and Freezing Jamaican Brown Chicken Stew

Allow the Jamaican brown chicken stew to cool completely before storing or freezing.
Transfer the cooled stew to an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag.
If using a container, make sure to leave about an inch of headspace at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
The stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, place the container or bag in the freezer and store for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to eat, thaw the frozen stew overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat the thawed stew in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature.
If the stew appears too thick after thawing, you can add a little chicken broth or water to thin it out while reheating.
Taste the reheated stew and adjust the seasoning if needed before serving.

How To Reheat Leftover Jamaican Brown Chicken Stew

Reheat the jamaican brown chicken stew in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method ensures that the flavors meld together and the sauce thickens slightly, creating a rich and delicious stew.
If you're short on time, you can reheat the chicken stew in the microwave. Place the desired portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it's heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become tough and the sauce to separate.
For a crispy twist, shred the leftover chicken and spread it on a baking sheet. Place the sheet under the broiler for a few minutes until the edges of the chicken start to crisp up. Serve the crispy chicken over a bed of rice or in a warm tortilla with some of the reheated stew sauce drizzled on top.
Transform your leftover jamaican brown chicken stew into a comforting pot pie. Transfer the stew to a baking dish, top it with a layer of puff pastry or pie crust, and bake it in the oven until the crust is golden brown and flaky. This method works best if you have a significant amount of leftover stew.
Create a flavorful chicken and vegetable soup by adding the leftover stew to a pot of simmering chicken broth or vegetable broth. Add some diced potatoes, carrots, and celery, and let the soup simmer until the vegetables are tender. This is a great way to stretch your leftovers and create a whole new meal.

Interesting Fact About Jamaican Brown Chicken Stew

A unique aspect of this Jamaican brown chicken stew recipe is the use of scotch bonnet pepper, which adds a distinct and fiery heat. This pepper is a staple in Caribbean cuisine and is known for its intense spiciness and fruity flavor, making the dish both flavorful and authentically Jamaican.

Is This Jamaican Stew Recipe Budget-Friendly?

This Jamaican brown chicken stew recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main protein, chicken legs with thighs, is generally affordable. Fresh vegetables like tomato, scallions, onion, garlic, and carrot are inexpensive and readily available. Specialty items like scotch bonnet pepper and coconut milk might be slightly pricier but are used in small quantities. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25 USD. Considering the flavor and nutritional value, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10.

Is Jamaican Brown Chicken Stew Healthy or Unhealthy?

This Jamaican brown chicken stew recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutrient-rich ingredients such as:

Tomato, scallions, onion, and garlic, which provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
Thyme, which offers anti-inflammatory properties
Carrot, a good source of beta-carotene and fiber
Coconut milk, which contains healthy fats

However, there are some concerns:

Bone-in chicken legs with thighs are higher in fat compared to leaner cuts like chicken breast
Soy sauce, even low-sodium, can still contribute to high sodium intake
The recipe doesn't include a significant source of complex carbohydrates or additional vegetables

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use skinless chicken breast or thighs to reduce the overall fat content
Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos, which is lower in sodium
Add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or sweet potatoes to increase the nutrient density and fiber content
Serve the stew over a bed of brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a balanced meal
Reduce the amount of coconut milk and replace some with low-sodium chicken broth to lower the calorie and fat content while maintaining a creamy texture

By incorporating these changes, you can enhance the nutritional value of the dish without compromising its delicious Jamaican flavors.

Editor's Opinion on This Jamaican Stew Recipe

This Jamaican brown chicken stew recipe is a delightful blend of vibrant flavors and textures. The lime juice tenderizes the chicken beautifully, while the scotch bonnet pepper adds a fiery kick. Marinating the chicken with fresh herbs and vegetables infuses it with deep, aromatic notes. The addition of coconut milk and cornstarch creates a rich, creamy sauce that complements the browned chicken perfectly. The use of fresh thyme and low sodium soy sauce enhances the overall taste without overwhelming the palate. This dish promises a hearty, satisfying meal that's both comforting and exotic.

Enhance Your Jamaican Brown Chicken Stew Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Rice and Peas: Complement the rich flavors of the Jamaican brown chicken stew with a side of rice and peas. The coconut milk in the stew will harmonize beautifully with the creamy texture of the rice and the earthy notes of the peas.

Fried Plantains: Add a touch of sweetness and a delightful crispy texture with fried plantains. The caramelized exterior and soft interior will provide a perfect contrast to the savory and spicy elements of the stew.

Jamaican Festival: Serve the stew with Jamaican festival, a sweet and savory fried dough that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. This traditional side will add a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness to your meal.

Steamed Callaloo: Balance the hearty stew with a side of steamed callaloo. This leafy green vegetable is packed with nutrients and will add a fresh, slightly bitter note that complements the rich flavors of the chicken.

Mango Salsa: Brighten up your plate with a refreshing mango salsa. The sweetness of the mango, combined with zesty lime and spicy jalapeño, will provide a vibrant contrast to the deep, savory flavors of the stew.

Similar Recipes to Jamaican Brown Chicken Stew

Jamaican Jerk Chicken: Dive into the vibrant flavors of Jamaica with this spicy and aromatic jerk chicken. Marinated in a blend of scallions, thyme, allspice, and scotch bonnet peppers, this dish is perfect for grilling or baking. Serve with rice and peas for a complete meal.

Caribbean Curry Goat: Experience the rich and hearty taste of Caribbean cuisine with this curry goat. Slow-cooked to perfection with potatoes, carrots, and a blend of spices, this dish is a true comfort food. Pair it with roti or steamed rice for a satisfying meal.

Trinidadian Pelau: Savor the unique flavors of Trinidad with this one-pot pelau. Combining chicken, pigeon peas, and rice with a caramelized sugar base, this dish is both sweet and savory. Garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy a taste of the islands.

Haitian Griot: Indulge in the crispy and succulent Haitian griot, made from marinated and fried pork. Infused with citrus and spices, this dish is typically served with pikliz (spicy pickled vegetables) and fried plantains for a delightful contrast of flavors.

Bahamian Conch Chowder: Warm up with a bowl of Bahamian conch chowder. This hearty soup features tender conch meat, potatoes, carrots, and celery in a flavorful tomato-based broth. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for a Caribbean-themed meal.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Jamaican Brown Chicken Stew

Appetizers:

Jamaican Patties: Jamaican Patties are a delightful way to start your meal. These flaky pastries are filled with a savory mixture of spiced ground beef, onions, and breadcrumbs. The golden crust, achieved by baking, encases the flavorful filling, making each bite a burst of Caribbean goodness. Serve them hot with a side of tangy tamarind sauce for an authentic touch. These patties are perfect for whetting your appetite before diving into the main course.

Ackee and Saltfish Bites: Ackee and Saltfish Bites offer a taste of Jamaica's national dish in a bite-sized form. The creamy texture of ackee pairs beautifully with the salty, flaky fish, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. These bites are often served on a bed of crispy plantain chips, adding a delightful crunch. Garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime to elevate the dish. These bites are a fantastic way to introduce your palate to the rich culinary traditions of Jamaica.

Desserts:

Mango Coconut Panna Cotta: Imagine a silky panna cotta infused with the tropical flavors of mango and coconut. This dessert is a perfect balance of creamy and fruity, offering a refreshing end to your meal. The mango puree adds a vibrant color and a burst of sweetness, while the coconut milk provides a rich, velvety texture. Garnish with a few slices of fresh mango and a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for an extra touch of elegance.

Rum-Soaked Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: Take your taste buds on a Caribbean adventure with a pineapple upside-down cake that's been given a delightful twist. The pineapple rings are soaked in dark rum, adding a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the caramelized brown sugar topping. The cake itself is moist and tender, with a hint of vanilla and spices. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complete this indulgent treat.

Why trust this Jamaican Brown Chicken Stew Recipe:

This Jamaican brown chicken stew recipe is a trusted favorite, combining authentic Caribbean flavors with simple, wholesome ingredients. The use of fresh thyme, scotch bonnet pepper, and coconut milk ensures a rich, aromatic dish. Marinating the chicken infuses it with deep flavors, while browning it locks in the juices. The addition of carrots and a touch of soy sauce creates a balanced, savory stew. Follow these steps for a delicious, home-cooked meal that brings the taste of Jamaica to your table.

Share your thoughts on the Jamaican Brown Chicken Stew Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

How spicy is this Jamaican brown chicken stew?

The stew has a nice kick to it because of the scotch bonnet pepper, which is pretty hot. If you're not into super spicy food, you can use half a pepper or remove the seeds to tone it down a bit.

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Sure, you can use boneless chicken if you prefer. Just keep in mind that bone-in chicken tends to add more flavor to the stew. If you go boneless, you might want to adjust the cooking time since it cooks faster.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

The recipe suggests marinating for at least one hour, but if you have more time, letting it sit for a few hours or even overnight will make the flavors even better.

Can I substitute the coconut milk with something else?

If you're not a fan of coconut milk or have an allergy, you can use regular milk or even chicken broth. Just know that the coconut milk adds a unique richness and flavor to the stew.

What can I serve with this stew?

This stew goes great with rice and peas, plain white rice, or even some boiled dumplings. A side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad would also complement it nicely.