Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken

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on February 1, 2026


Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken is a classic dish loved for its rich flavors and tender chicken. This dish combines seasoned chicken simmered in a savory sauce with vegetables. The blend of spices and herbs brings a warm taste that’s comforting and satisfying. It’s often served with rice and peas, making it a complete meal. This recipe captures the essence of Jamaican cooking, bringing the taste of the Caribbean right into your kitchen. Whether for a family dinner or a special celebration, Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken will impress your guests and leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken

You will love Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken because it is full of flavor and easy to make. The spices create a delicious sauce that seeps into the chicken, making it tender and juicy. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, so cleanup is simple. This dish can be enjoyed any day of the week, bringing a taste of Jamaica to your home. With the perfect mix of ingredients and the warmth of the spices, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

How to Make Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 4 chicken pieces (legs or thighs)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 carrot, sliced
  • 2-3 sprigs of thyme
  • 1 teaspoon allspice
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1-2 scotch bonnet peppers (optional)
  • Rice and peas for serving

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, allspice, and thyme.
  3. Brown the chicken on all sides in the pot, then remove and set aside.
  4. In the same pot, add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrot. Sauté until softened.
  5. Stir in the chicken broth, soy sauce, tomato paste, and scotch bonnet peppers.
  6. Return the chicken to the pot, cover, and simmer for about 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is tender.
  7. Serve hot with rice and peas.

How to Serve Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken

Serve Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken hot, alongside rice and peas for a comforting meal. The rice absorbs the flavors of the stew, making each bite delicious. You can also add a side of steamed vegetables for extra color and nutrition.

How to Store Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken

To store leftover Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Tips for the Best Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken

  • Marinate the chicken overnight for even better flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet peppers to control the heat level.
  • Use fresh herbs for the best taste. Dried thyme works too if fresh isn’t available.

Recipe Variations

You can make this dish with other proteins such as fish or lamb, although chicken is the traditional choice. Feel free to add more vegetables like potatoes or peas for added nutrition and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I make it spicier?
Add more scotch bonnet peppers or use a hot sauce when serving.

Can I use skinless chicken?
Yes, although skin-on chicken adds more flavor and richness to the stew.

What can I serve with this dish?
Rice and peas are traditional, but it also goes well with fried plantains or a simple green salad.

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jamaican brown stew chicken 2026 01 29 154610 1

Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken

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A classic Jamaican dish featuring seasoned chicken simmered in a savory sauce with vegetables, rich in flavor and easy to make.

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 chicken pieces (legs or thighs)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 carrot, sliced
  • 2-3 sprigs of thyme
  • 1 teaspoon allspice
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1-2 scotch bonnet peppers (optional)
  • Rice and peas for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, allspice, and thyme.
  3. Brown the chicken on all sides in the pot, then remove and set aside.
  4. In the same pot, add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrot. Sauté until softened.
  5. Stir in the chicken broth, soy sauce, tomato paste, and scotch bonnet peppers.
  6. Return the chicken to the pot, cover, and simmer for about 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is tender.
  7. Serve hot with rice and peas.

Notes

Marinate the chicken overnight for enhanced flavor. Adjust the scotch bonnet peppers for desired spice level.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

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