Take a trip to the sunny shores of Jamaica with this flavorful Brown Stew Chicken recipe. This beloved dish is a testament to the island’s rich culinary heritage, blending aromatic spices, vibrant flavors, and tender chicken pieces into a mouthwatering feast fit for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, or breast), skin removed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 onions, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tablespoons tomato ketchup
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Fresh parsley or scallions, chopped for garnish
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, thyme, allspice, and paprika. Massage the seasoning into the chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
2. Brown the Chicken:
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pot and brown them on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Stew:
- In the same pot, add the sliced onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, carrots, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.
- Stir in the tomato ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and any remaining marinade from the chicken.
- Return the browned chicken pieces to the pot and pour in the chicken broth until the chicken is partially submerged.
4. Simmer and Serve:
- Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender, and the sauce has thickened.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish the Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken with fresh parsley or chopped scallions before serving.
With its aromatic spices, tender chicken, and rich, flavorful sauce, Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken is a true taste sensation that captures the essence of Caribbean cuisine. Whether enjoyed with rice and peas, dumplings, or fried plantains, this hearty dish is sure to delight your taste buds and transport you to the sunny shores of Jamaica with every bite. So gather your ingredients, embrace the flavors of the Caribbean, and savor the warmth and vibrancy of this iconic dish. Enjoy!
