Jamaican Curry Chicken is a hearty, spicy, and deeply flavorful dish representing Jamaica’s rich and diverse culinary heritage. The dish has deep, spicy flavors and juicy, tender chicken. Loaded with amazing spice blends and aromatics, this Jamaican curry is something you cannot miss! Making it in an instant pot is the cherry on top! Whether weekday or weekend, you can make this delicious and rich curry in no time and enjoy a wholesome dinner with family and friends!

What is Jamaican curry?

Jamaican curry is a popular dish in Jamaica and throughout the Caribbean. It’s a flavorful and spicy curry influenced by various cultures, particularly Indian cuisine, brought over by indentured workers during the British colonial era. However, over time, it has been adapted to local taste preferences and the availability of ingredients, resulting in a unique Caribbean variation. 

Jamaican curry typically involves meat, often chicken or goat, but can also be made with fish, shrimp, or vegetables for a vegetarian option. The meat or vegetables are slow-cooked with various herbs, spices, and hot peppers.

Why make Jamaican curry in an instant pot?

Jamaican curry is known for its rich and deep flavor. These flavors are a result of slow cooking. It means the more you cook the dish, the more flavor it will develop. However, sometimes you don’t have the luxury of time, and that’s where an instant pot comes in! Here is why you should make Jamaican curry in an instant pot!

• It is super easy to cook. With only 10 simple ingredients, you can get this dish done in no more than 30 minutes. 
• You can enjoy the depth of flavor. Instant pot cooks the dish using high pressure and gets maximum flavor from the ingredients.
• Instant pot is a one-pan affair. Simply add ingredients, seal the lid, set the time, and that’s all! No mess at all!
• It is a great choice when you have to cook the curry in a large batch. It is easy and convenient!

Tips 

Keep these tips in mind to enjoy perfectly made instant pot Jamaican curry:

• Although we have used chicken thighs for this recipe, feel free to use any other chicken cut you prefer. Note that the cooking time might vary depending on the cut you are using.
• Make sure you mix the chicken for at least 2 to 3 minutes with your hands. The more you mix the chicken, the more flavors you will get into it.
• When burning the curry, make sure you keep an eye on the curry powder. You don’t want to burn it. The main aim is to get maximum flavor and color out of the curry powder. So, stir constantly.
• Add more vegetables, like carrots, peas, celery, etc., to make the curry tasteful.
• If you don’t prefer spicy Jamaican curry, skip adding scotch bonnet pepper.
• You can adjust the salt to your liking.

What to serve with Jamaican curry?

Here are a few sides that go very well with this rich curry:

• Rice: Rice is a traditional side of this dish. You can serve it with plain steamed white/brown rice or fried rice. Rice makes the dish wholesome by absorbing the flavors of the curry.
• Mashed potatoes: Another perfect side dish to accompany the spices of Jamaican curry is mashed potatoes. The creamy texture of potatoes goes very well with the curry.
• Fried plantains: Serve the curry with fried plantains. It is a traditional side dish and adds a crispy element to your meal.
• Flatbread: Flatbread soaks up the flavors of the curry, making it a perfect side!

How to store leftover Jamaican curry?

You can store leftover Jamaican chicken curry in an airtight container. Refrigerate it for up to three days. Reheat it over the stovetop or in the microwave. 

You can also freeze Jamaican curry. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will last for up to a month. Let it thaw overnight before you reheat it on the stovetop.