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Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken Recipe

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Classic Jamaican brown stew chicken recipe with tender chicken simmered in rich spiced gravy for a comforting Caribbean meal.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4–6 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stewing / Simmering
  • Cuisine: Jamaican / Caribbean
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

3 lbs bone-in chicken (legs, thighs, or mixed pieces), cleaned with lime or vinegar
1½ tbsp browning sauce
1 tsp salt (or to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
1 small onion, sliced
1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
1 medium carrot, thinly sliced (optional)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 sprig fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
23 pimento seeds (allspice), crushed
1 small tomato, chopped
2 scallions (green onions), chopped
¼ Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (optional for heat)
2 tbsp ketchup
1 Maggi cube
2 tbsp oil (for browning)
2½ cups water or low-sodium chicken stock

Instructions

1. Season and Marinate Chicken

Clean chicken with lime or vinegar and pat dry. Season with salt, black pepper, browning sauce, onion, garlic, thyme, pimento, tomato, scallion, and ketchup. Mix well and marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).

2. Brown the Chicken

Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken along with marinade. Brown on both sides to develop rich flavor.

3. Add Vegetables

Stir in bell peppers, carrots, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Mix well to combine flavors.

4. Simmer the Stew

Add water or chicken stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 35–45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is tender and sauce thickens.

5. Adjust Seasoning

Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Add extra ketchup if you prefer a slightly sweeter gravy.

6. Serve

Serve hot with rice and peas, white rice, or your favorite side dish.

Notes

Marinating overnight gives the deepest flavor.
Browning sauce is key for authentic color and richness.
Adjust Scotch bonnet carefully for spice level.
Let the sauce reduce slightly for a thicker, richer gravy.