Name: Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Jamaican
Ingredients: 2.5 lbs bone-in skinless chicken pieces; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (whole or sliced); 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 4 sprigs fresh thyme; 4 green onions, chopped; 2 medium tomatoes, chopped; 1 tsp ground allspice; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp ketchup; 1 cup chicken broth or water; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp vinegar (for marinade)

Craving a Caribbean escape without leaving your kitchen? Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken brings the heat, the comfort, and a whole lot of flavor. It’s the kind of meal that simmers in bold spices, caramelized goodness, and homestyle heart—perfect for Sunday dinners or impressing guests with something unforgettable.

This dish is the soul of Jamaican home cooking, blending tender chicken pieces with a rich, spiced gravy that clings to every bite. Browned first for that deep caramel edge, then slow-simmered in a sauce built from aromatics and Scotch bonnet heat, it’s an experience that warms from the inside out.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this island classic, gather your essential tools. First up, a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or cast iron pot is non-negotiable—it evenly distributes heat and handles the long simmering without scorching. A sharp chef’s knife ensures clean cuts through bone-in chicken and precise dicing of your veggies. Don’t forget a cutting board with good grip, preferably with juice grooves to catch the marinade runoff.

You’ll also need tongs for browning your chicken evenly, and a wooden spoon to scrape up those flavorful brown bits during cooking. If you’re a fan of mise en place, prep bowls can help you stay organized with your chopped onions, garlic, thyme, and hot peppers.

Ingredients for the Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken

Chicken (bone-in, skinless pieces): The star of the dish. Bone-in chicken adds flavor and richness, especially during the long simmer.
Brown sugar: Essential for caramelizing the chicken and building that deep brown color and molasses-like flavor.
Onions: Adds sweetness and body to the stew’s base.
Garlic: Brings aromatic depth and pungency that blends beautifully with the other spices.
Scotch bonnet pepper: Traditional for its fierce heat and fruity note. Handle with care!
Bell peppers (red and green): Offers color, crunch, and a hint of sweetness.
Fresh thyme: A fragrant must-have that infuses the stew with its earthy, herby flavor.
Green onions: Adds a sharp, fresh bite that lifts the savory richness.
Tomatoes: Helps build the stew base and balances the spices with natural acidity.
Allspice (pimento): The cornerstone of Jamaican seasoning—warm, slightly sweet, and peppery.
Soy sauce: Brings umami depth and a salty balance.
Ketchup: Adds subtle sweetness and acidity while thickening the sauce.
Chicken broth or water: Forms the body of the gravy and ensures the stew simmers beautifully.
Salt & black pepper: Balances and enhances all the flavors.

How To Make the Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken

Step 1: Marinate for Maximum Flavor

Season your chicken with salt, black pepper, allspice, thyme, garlic, and green onions. Add soy sauce and a splash of vinegar. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours—overnight if you want full flavor saturation.

Step 2: Caramelize the Chicken

Heat a heavy pot and sprinkle brown sugar evenly across the base. Let it melt and bubble into a deep amber before adding chicken. Sear the chicken pieces on all sides until browned. This step gives the stew its iconic color and smoky sweetness.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Add onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes to the pot. Stir and scrape the bottom to lift all the flavor-packed bits. Toss in the Scotch bonnet (whole or sliced depending on your heat preference).

Step 4: Simmer Gently

Pour in the chicken broth or water until it just covers the chicken. Stir in ketchup for body and tang. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 35–45 minutes until the chicken is tender and the sauce is thickened.

Step 5: Adjust & Serve

Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Let it sit uncovered for the last few minutes to concentrate flavors if the sauce is too loose. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.

How to Serve and Store Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken

Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken is best served hot, spooned generously over a bed of steamed white rice, rice and peas, or with fluffy boiled dumplings. The rich, savory sauce soaks into the starches, delivering full-bodied flavor in every bite. For added texture, consider serving with a side of fried plantains or a crisp cabbage slaw.

To store leftovers, let the stew cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to maintain the integrity of the sauce and chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken?

The heat level depends on the Scotch bonnet pepper. Leaving it whole gives a mild heat; slicing or crushing it increases the fire. You can skip it if you’re heat-sensitive.

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, but bone-in pieces deliver deeper flavor and better texture. If using boneless thighs, reduce the simmer time slightly.

What makes the stew brown?

The signature color comes from caramelizing brown sugar before searing the chicken. This step is key to achieving that deep, rich sauce.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely. The flavors deepen overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Just reheat slowly to keep the chicken tender.

Is browning the chicken optional?

Not really. Browning locks in juices and builds the foundation for the stew’s signature taste.

What sides go best with this dish?

Classic pairings include rice and peas, fried plantains, steamed vegetables, or even creamy mashed potatoes for a fusion twist.

Want More Caribbean-Inspired Chicken Ideas?

If Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken sparked your appetite, there’s a whole world of comfort-packed chicken recipes to explore. Dive into the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe for a spicy, cheesy twist that hits all the savory notes. Or try the One Skillet Smoky Cajun BBQ Chicken Pasta if you’re craving something bold and creamy.

For something fuss-free but full of flavor, the Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken will never disappoint. If you prefer something tangy and a bit lighter, don’t miss the Savory Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs. And if you want a quick stovetop option, the Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet brings creamy heat with minimal effort.

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When you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you go all-in with the Scotch bonnet? Serve it with plantains or rice and peas? Drop a comment and let’s swap ideas.

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