Brown Stew Chicken
A hearty and flavorful Brown Stew Chicken that captures the rich tastes of Jamaica. This dish is perfect for family dinners and special occasions, offering tender chicken pieces stewed in a blend of aromatic spices and vegetables.
Prep
15 minutes
Cook
40 minutes
Level
Medium
Serves
6
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Illustrated cooking guide
Step-by-step visual method
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Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Rub the spices into the chicken thoroughly.
- 2
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and cook until it melts and turns a dark caramel color.
- 3
Carefully add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pot. Brown the chicken on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Add the chopped onion, garlic, thyme, bell pepper, tomato, and carrots to the pot. Stir well to combine everything.
- 5
Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is mostly covered. Add the whole Scotch bonnet peppers if you want extra heat. Bring to a boil.
- 6
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- 7
Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Stir in the chopped scallions just before serving.
Tips
Choose bone-in chicken for more flavor.
Allow the stew to sit for a few minutes after cooking to let the flavors meld together.
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Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze portions for up to 3 months, and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Substitutions
- You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter version.
What to Serve With
- Serve with rice and peas or boiled dumplings for a complete meal.
Common Mistakes
- Avoid overcrowding the pot when browning the chicken to ensure even cooking.
- Make sure the brown sugar caramelizes properly to give depth to the stew.
Recipe FAQ
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken, but cooking times may be shorter.
What if I can’t find Scotch bonnet peppers?
You can substitute with jalapeños for a milder heat or skip it altogether.
Kitchen tools
Helpful Tools for This Recipe
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Rice cooker
Good for steady rice, grains, and meal-prep bowls.
Saucepan
Useful for simmering sauces, soups, grains, and small-batch stews.
Chef knife
A basic prep tool for vegetables, herbs, aromatics, and proteins.
Cutting board
Keeps prep organized for chopping, slicing, and staging ingredients.
Measuring spoons
Useful for balancing spices, salt, acids, and sauces.
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