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Authentic Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken

A hearty Jamaican dish featuring marinated chicken, vibrant vegetables, and savory spices simmered to perfection in a rich sauce.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Jamaican
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Marinade
  • 4 pounds chicken pieces (bone-in, skin-on)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt (to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons browning sauce
Cooking Ingredients
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch piece ginger, minced
  • 1 whole bell pepper, sliced (any color)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 whole Scotch bonnet pepper whole for flavor
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 6 pieces pimento seeds (allspice)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and browning sauce. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once it's hot, add the marinated chicken pieces skin-side down. Brown the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Cooking
  1. In the same pot, add the onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
  2. Return the browned chicken to the pot, and add the sliced bell pepper, thyme, and whole Scotch bonnet pepper. Stir to combine.
  3. Add the sliced carrots, chopped tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Stir occasionally, and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  4. If you desire a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
  5. Once done, remove the Scotch bonnet pepper (unless you want it extra spicy!). Serve this delicious Authentic Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken over rice or with your favorite side.

Notes

For added flavor, allow the chicken to marinate longer. Avoid rushing the browning process, as it adds depth to the dish. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.