Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken

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Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken is a comforting, deeply flavorful dish that brings the heart of Caribbean cuisine straight into your kitchen. This dish is all about bold spices, tender chicken, and a rich gravy that gets better with every simmer. What sets it apart is the signature browning sauce, which gives the chicken its deep caramelized color and smoky-sweet undertones.

Traditionally served with rice and peas, this dish isn’t just dinner—it’s an experience. The aroma of thyme, scotch bonnet, and bell peppers dancing together in one pot creates a celebration of flavor that feels like a warm island breeze on your plate.

Why You’ll Love This Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken

This dish is packed with flavor in every bite. The combination of sweet, spicy, and savory elements keeps things interesting. It uses affordable ingredients and feeds a crowd, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings. The slow simmer makes the chicken fall-off-the-bone tender while locking in every bit of seasoning.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks are the gold standard for brown stew chicken. They hold up well to the long simmering and release flavorful juices that enrich the gravy. You can also use a whole chicken chopped into pieces. If you prefer boneless, just keep an eye on the cook time so the meat doesn’t dry out.

Ingredients for the Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken

This recipe leans on pantry staples and fresh herbs to bring authentic Caribbean taste to life. Each ingredient plays a key role in building that complex flavor base.

• Chicken (bone-in pieces): Brings deep flavor and moisture
• Bell peppers (red and green): Adds sweetness and crunch
• Scotch bonnet pepper: For heat and a unique Caribbean kick
• Onion: Essential for the aromatic base
• Garlic: Deepens the savory profile
• Fresh thyme: A classic herb in Jamaican cooking
• Tomatoes: Adds a tangy richness
• Allspice (pimento): Warm, earthy spice essential to Caribbean dishes
• Brown sugar: Caramelizes into the browning sauce
• Soy sauce: Salty umami depth
• Ketchup: Balances acidity and sweetness
• Chicken broth or water: Forms the base of the stew
• Salt and pepper: For seasoning balance
• Vegetable oil: For searing the chicken

How To Make the Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Clean your chicken pieces and season them with salt, pepper, allspice, garlic, onion, and thyme. Let this marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

In the same pot, sauté the onions, bell peppers, scotch bonnet, tomatoes, and remaining garlic until softened and aromatic.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Add ketchup, soy sauce, and a bit more allspice. Stir to combine, then return the chicken to the pot. Add enough broth or water to almost cover the meat.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Cover and simmer on low heat for about 40-50 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. The sauce should reduce to a thick, rich consistency.

How to Serve and Store Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken

This dish is hearty enough to be the star of any meal. It serves 4 to 6 people generously. Always pair it with white rice, rice and peas, or even mashed plantains to soak up the rich sauce. For storing, let leftovers cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months—just reheat gently on the stove to bring it back to life.

What to Serve With Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken?

Rice and Peas

Classic and expected—the coconut rice and kidney beans balance the bold stew.

Fried Plantains

Sweet and caramelized plantains make a perfect contrast to the spicy stew.

Jamaican Festival Bread

A sweet, fried dumpling that’s perfect for dipping into the sauce.

Steamed Cabbage

Light and healthy with a bit of crunch to complement the stew’s richness.

Cornmeal Dumplings

Hearty and filling, ideal for soaking up the gravy.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Earthy and naturally sweet, they pair beautifully with the spiced chicken.

Cucumber Salad

Cool and crisp to cleanse the palate between bites.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this bold Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken, check out these other irresistible chicken recipes from the site:

• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Linguine with creamy, herby goodness.
• Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs that are sticky, sweet, and tangy.
• Creamy Chicken and Broccoli for a one-pan comfort meal.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes that’s perfect for weeknight ease.
• Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce for indulgent flavor lovers.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you keep it traditional, or add your own twist? Maybe a splash of pineapple juice or a dash of ginger?

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