Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken

Name: Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 pieces of chicken (legs or thighs), skinless; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 carrot, sliced; 2 tomatoes, chopped; 2 teaspoons browning sauce; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1 teaspoon allspice; 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, whole (optional); 1 cup chicken broth; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 green onions, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: International Flavor Recipes

I’ve been captivated by the rich and vibrant flavors of Jamaican cuisine, and this Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken recipe brings that warmth right to my kitchen. The combination of well-seasoned chicken, fresh vegetables, and a savory sauce makes for a comforting dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. I love how the slow cooking process allows the spices to infuse the chicken deeply, resulting in a tender and flavorful meal that my family can't resist. It's truly a feast for both the eyes and the palate!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:34:29.986Z

Making Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken is one of my favorite culinary adventures! I remember the first time I tried this dish at a friend's family gathering; the flavors were so harmonious, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. One tip I learned is to marinate the chicken overnight with the spices, which makes a noticeable difference in flavor.

As I perfected my recipe, I realized that browning the chicken properly in hot oil before stewing brings out a beautiful color and rich, caramelized notes. It's about patience and allowing the chicken to soak up all those delightful South Caribbean flavors for an unforgettable experience.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic spices that create a memorable flavor profile
Tender chicken that falls off the bone
Perfect served with rice and peas for a complete meal

      

The Essence of Jamaican Flavors

Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken is all about layering flavors, and that starts with the marinating process. The combination of spices—particularly allspice and thyme—denotes the characteristic profile of Jamaican cuisine. Choose fresh allspice berries if available; they lend a more potent flavor than the ground version. Marinating overnight allows the chicken to absorb these spices deeply, resulting in a dish that bursts with authenticity.

The Scotch bonnet pepper is a classic element in Jamaican dishes, contributing both heat and a fruity flavor. If you're sensitive to heat, you can pierce the pepper to release a bit of its essence without overwhelming spice or simply omit it without sacrificing the heartiness of the dish. If you really enjoy heat, consider adding a diced pepper along with the whole one to enhance the spiciness.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Results

Browning the chicken is not just for aesthetics; it creates a rich base flavor through the Maillard reaction. Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken, as this prevents sticking and ensures a beautiful golden sear. If the chicken is overcrowded in the pot, it will steam rather than brown, so work in batches if necessary. Look for the chicken to develop golden edges before removing it from the pot.

Simmering is where the magic happens. It's crucial to maintain a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and remains tender. Adjust the heat accordingly, so the broth bubbles slowly—this method allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you notice the sauce thickening too much, you can always add a splash more of chicken broth to adjust the consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a truly authentic Jamaican experience:

Ingredients

4 pieces of chicken (legs or thighs), skinless
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 carrot, sliced
2 tomatoes, chopped
2 teaspoons browning sauce
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon allspice
1 Scotch bonnet pepper, whole (optional)
1 cup chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
2 green onions, chopped for garnish

Your ingredients are ready. Now let’s bring this dish to life!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delightful Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic, ginger, thyme, and allspice. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results.

Brown the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and brown all sides. This should take about 5–7 minutes.

Sauté the Vegetables

Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and carrot. Sauté until they are softened, about 3–4 minutes.

Combine and Simmer

Return the chicken to the pot and add the browning sauce, tomatoes, Scotch bonnet pepper, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Serve

Once the chicken is tender, remove from heat and garnish with green onions. Serve hot with rice and peas.

Enjoy your Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken!

Pro Tips

For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce to the marinade. If you prefer a milder dish, remove the Scotch bonnet pepper before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for meal prep. Once cooked, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out.

For longer storage, consider freezing the stew. Use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bags, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this stew with rice and peas is traditional, allowing the flavors to balance wonderfully. The creaminess of coconut milk in the rice complements the savory chicken. You can also try pairing it with fried plantains for a touch of sweetness, or a fresh mango salad for a refreshing contrast. Both add vibrant colors to your plate, making for a visually appealing meal.

For a heartier option, serve the stew with dumplings or boiled green bananas. These additions not only soak up the flavorful sauce but create a complete and satisfying dish. No matter how you serve it, each bite of Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken will transport you to the vibrant shores of Jamaica.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Absolutely! You can use breasts or wings, though cooking times may vary depending on the cut used.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add an extra Scotch bonnet pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper for additional heat.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken a day in advance. The flavors intensify with time.

→ What should I serve with this dish?

Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken pairs well with rice and peas, steamed vegetables, or fried plantains.