When you think of comfort food, the rich, aromatic flavors of brown stew chicken Jamaican might just dance into your mind. Imagine tender chicken simmering in a heavenly blend of spices, creating a fragrant symphony that makes your taste buds sing. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience, one that wraps you in a warm embrace with every bite.
Now, picture this: it’s a Sunday afternoon, and the smell of brown stew chicken wafts through the air as family gathers around the table. It’s a dish that sparks joy and nostalgia, reminding us of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones. Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, brown stew chicken always promises an unforgettable flavor journey.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means anyone can whip it up, even on busy nights
- The flavor profile is rich and comforting, hitting all the right notes
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing for any gathering
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with rice, potatoes, or even as a filling for tacos!
I remember the first time I made brown stew chicken for my friends; they couldn’t stop raving about how it tasted like a hug in food form.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Chicken Thighs: Bone-in and skin-on thighs work best for juicy flavor and tenderness during cooking.
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Bell Peppers: Use colorful bell peppers for added sweetness and visual appeal in your stew.
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Onions: Sweet onions provide depth; slice them thinly to enhance their natural sweetness when cooked.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are key; they infuse the dish with aromatic goodness.
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Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a zesty kick that brightens up the overall flavor profile.
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Thyme: Fresh thyme leaves lend an earthy aroma and complement the savory elements beautifully.
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Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness balances out the spices and enhances caramelization.
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Soy Sauce: Soy sauce deepens the savory notes; opt for low-sodium if you’re watching salt intake.
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Tomato Paste: This adds richness; it also thickens the sauce while adding subtle acidity.
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Chicken Broth: Homemade or store-bought broth brings all flavors together in delicious harmony.
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Pimento Seeds (Allspice): These provide unique warmth; they’re essential for authentic Jamaican flavor.
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Scotch Bonnet Pepper (optional): For those who love heat, this pepper will add a spicy kick!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Preparing everything ahead makes cooking smooth and fun.
Seasoning Time
In a large bowl, combine chicken thighs with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, thyme, and pimento seeds. Rub everything into the meat until well coated. Let sit for at least 30 minutes to allow those flavors to penetrate deeply.
Sauté Your Aromatics
Heat some oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced onions and bell peppers to sauté until soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes—stirring occasionally until they turn golden.
Brown That Chicken
Increase heat slightly and add marinated chicken thighs to the pot skin-side down. Sear until golden brown on both sides—around 6–8 minutes per side—then remove from pot temporarily while you deglaze.
Create Your Sauce
Pour some chicken broth into the same pot to deglaze it. Scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Add tomato paste and stir well until combined. Return chicken to pot along with remaining broth.
Simmer Away
Bring everything to a gentle boil then lower heat to let it simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes or until chicken is tender and fully cooked through. Stir occasionally and smell that magic happen!
Once finished cooking, ensure your chicken is tender enough to fall off the bone! Serve hot with rice or your favorite side dishes—enjoy every flavorful bite!
You Must Know
- Brown stew chicken jamaican is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors
- The rich spices and tender chicken create a dish that warms the heart and soul
- This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, bringing everyone together around the table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken to soak up those delicious spices. Sear it until golden brown, then simmer with vegetables for deep flavor.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap in different proteins like beef or tofu for variety. Experimenting keeps meals exciting!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove for best texture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen filled with laughter and aroma, where everyone gathered to enjoy her famous brown stew chicken jamaican.

FAQ
What can I serve with brown stew chicken jamaican?
Serve with steamed rice or fried plantains for a complete meal experience.
Can I make brown stew chicken jamaican ahead of time?
Yes, this dish tastes even better the next day after flavors have melded together.
Is there a vegetarian version of brown stew chicken jamaican?
Absolutely! Swap out chicken for jackfruit or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken
Indulge in the rich, aromatic flavors of Jamaican brown stew chicken. This beloved dish features succulent chicken thighs simmered in a robust blend of spices, creating a mouthwatering experience that warms the heart. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this recipe delivers unforgettable flavor and comfort with every bite. Easy to prepare, you’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Jamaican
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 1 cup bell peppers (sliced, mixed colors)
- 1 medium onion (sliced)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger (grated)
- 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 5 pimento seeds (allspice)
- 1 Scotch Bonnet pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken thighs with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, thyme, and pimento seeds. Massage the marinade into the meat and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and bell peppers; sauté until soft and fragrant for about 5 minutes.
- Brown the chicken: Increase heat and add marinated chicken thighs, skin-side down. Sear until golden brown on both sides (6–8 minutes per side). Remove from pot temporarily.
- Create sauce: Deglaze the pot with chicken broth, scraping up flavorful bits. Stir in tomato paste until well combined. Return chicken to pot along with any remaining broth.
- Simmer: Bring to a gentle boil; reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes or until chicken is tender.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (150g)
- Calories: 335
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg

