The aroma of smoky, savory spices wafts through the kitchen as you prepare to make brown stew chicken, a dish that captures the essence of comfort food. Imagine tender pieces of chicken simmering in a rich, fragrant sauce, each bite bursting with flavor and memories of family gatherings.

On warm evenings, this delightful dish becomes the star of the dinner table. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in some self-care, brown stew chicken promises an unforgettable culinary experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy brown stew chicken recipe combines bold flavors with straightforward preparation, making it perfect for any skill level
- The vibrant colors and aromas bring life to your dinner table
- It’s versatile enough for a cozy family meal or a festive gathering
- Plus, leftovers (if there are any) taste even better!
Sharing this dish always brings smiles and fond memories from those I serve it to; it’s truly a family favorite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Bone-in Chicken Pieces: Opt for thighs and drumsticks for juicy tenderness that holds up well during cooking.
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Fresh Ginger: Use unblemished knobs for maximum zing; it elevates the overall flavor profile.
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Bell Peppers: Choose vibrant colors like red and green for visual appeal and sweetness.
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Onion: A large onion adds sweetness; slice it thinly so it melts into the sauce perfectly.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring aromatic depth; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient!
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Thyme: Fresh thyme is best; its earthy notes infuse the dish with warmth.
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Tomatoes: Use ripe tomatoes or canned versions for added richness in your sauce.
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Soy Sauce: Low-sodium options control saltiness while enhancing umami flavors.
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Brown Sugar: A touch adds sweetness and balances out savory flavors beautifully.
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Pimento (Allspice): This spice is crucial; it introduces a warm, aromatic note that’s signature to Caribbean cuisine.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep the Chicken: Start by rinsing your chicken pieces under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels to help absorb seasonings better. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme for deep flavor.
Create the Marinade: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, freshly grated ginger, minced garlic, and brown sugar. This marinade packs a punch! Let your chicken soak in this mixture for at least an hour—overnight is even better.
Sear for Flavor: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken pieces skin-side down and sear until golden brown on both sides—about 5-7 minutes per side. This caramelization adds fantastic flavor!
Add Vegetables and Liquid : Toss in sliced onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes into the same skillet. Stir everything up! Pour in any remaining marinade along with some water or chicken stock to create that luscious sauce we all love.
Simmer to Perfection : Bring everything to a gentle simmer before reducing heat to low. Cover and let it cook for about 30-40 minutes until chicken is fork-tender. The aroma will be intoxicating!
Finish Strong!: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary—more salt? A hint of heat? Add your flair! Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving to add brightness.
Now it’s time to savor every bite of your homemade brown stew chicken! Serve alongside rice or crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. Enjoy!
You Must Know
- Brown stew chicken is a comforting classic that’s perfect for family dinners
- The rich flavors develop beautifully, making it even more delicious the next day
- Serve it with rice and peas for a truly authentic experience that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken overnight to absorb flavors; then brown it before simmering in your sauce for tender perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different veggies or spices; adding bell peppers or thyme can elevate this dish to new heights.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover brown stew chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, reheating gently on the stove or microwave.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, use bone-in chicken pieces as they stay juicy and tender
- Always taste your sauce before serving, adjusting seasoning as needed
- Letting the dish cool before storing helps preserve those delicious flavors
Nothing brings back sweet memories like my grandmother’s brown stew chicken. I remember watching her cook, marveling at her skills as she transformed simple ingredients into a meal that brought our family together.
FAQ
What is brown stew chicken?
Brown stew chicken is a flavorful Jamaican dish made with seasoned chicken cooked in a rich sauce.
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but bone-in pieces provide more flavor and tenderness during cooking.
How can I make my sauce thicker?
To thicken your sauce, simmer it longer uncovered or add a cornstarch slurry gradually while stirring.
Brown Stew Chicken
Experience the warmth of home with this delicious brown stew chicken recipe. Tender, marinated chicken pieces simmer in a rich blend of spices, vegetables, and savory sauce, creating a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, this comforting meal delivers unforgettable flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Jamaican
Ingredients
- 2 lbs bone-in chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks)
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 2 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon pimento (allspice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Water or chicken stock as needed
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Rinse and pat dry the chicken pieces. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme.
- Create the Marinade: Combine soy sauce, ginger, minced garlic, and brown sugar in a bowl. Marinate the chicken for at least one hour (overnight is best).
- Sear the Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken skin-side down; sear until golden brown on both sides (5-7 minutes each).
- Add Vegetables: Stir in onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Pour in remaining marinade plus water or stock to cover.
- Simmer: Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 30-40 minutes until chicken is fork-tender.
- Final Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed; garnish with fresh thyme before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
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