Spicy Brown Stew Chicken: A Flavorful Caribbean Classic

If you’ve ever craved a dish that’s rich, spicy, and bursting with deep, savory flavors, then Spicy Brown Stew Chicken should be at the top of your list. This Caribbean classic, known for its bold seasoning and slow-cooked tenderness, is a favorite in Jamaican households and beyond.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner looking to explore Caribbean cuisine, this dish is surprisingly simple to make while delivering an explosion of flavors. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special and how you can recreate it at home.

What is Brown Stew Chicken?

Brown Stew Chicken is a Caribbean staple, particularly popular in Jamaica, Trinidad, and Barbados. It’s made by browning (searing) well-seasoned chicken pieces in hot oil before simmering them in a rich, aromatic gravy infused with onions, garlic, thyme, tomatoes, and Scotch bonnet peppers.

This dish is known for its bold, slightly spicy, and deeply savory flavor, with a hint of natural sweetness from slow-cooked vegetables and caramelized chicken skin.

Key Ingredients

To make an authentic Spicy Brown Stew Chicken, you’ll need:

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 2 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on preferred)
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp all-purpose seasoning
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp browning sauce (for deeper color and flavor)
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp white vinegar or lime juice (to clean the chicken)

For the Stew:

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large tomato, diced
• 1 medium carrot, sliced
• 1 small bell pepper, sliced
• 2 cups chicken broth or water
• 1 tbsp ketchup (adds subtle sweetness and thickness)
• 1 tsp brown sugar (optional, for balance)

How to Make Spicy Brown Stew Chicken

Step 1: Clean & Marinate the Chicken

• Wash the chicken with vinegar or lime juice, then pat dry.
• In a large bowl, combine chicken with all the marinade ingredients. Mix well, ensuring the chicken is fully coated.
• Cover and let it marinate for at least 1 hour (overnight is best for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

• Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
• Remove excess marinade from chicken pieces and sear them until golden brown (about 3–4 minutes per side).
• Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Flavorful Gravy

• In the same pan, sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers for 2 minutes.
• Add diced tomatoes, carrots, thyme, and Scotch bonnet pepper.
• Stir in ketchup and a bit of brown sugar for balance.
• Pour in chicken broth, scraping the bottom to release all the flavorful bits.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

• Return the browned chicken to the pan, ensuring each piece is coated in the sauce.
• Cover and simmer on low heat for 30–40 minutes until the chicken is tender and the sauce thickens.
• Adjust seasoning as needed, then serve hot!

Serving Suggestions

Spicy Brown Stew Chicken pairs perfectly with:
🍚 Rice & Peas – A classic Jamaican side that soaks up the rich gravy.
🥥 Coconut Rice – Adds a creamy contrast to the spice.
🥗 Steamed Cabbage & Fried Plantains – For a fresh and sweet balance.

If you love comfort food with bold flavors, this Spicy Brown Stew Chicken is a must-try! The combination of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors makes it an unforgettable Caribbean dish.

Have you tried making this dish before? Share your experience and favorite tweaks in the comments below! 🌶🔥