Brown Stew Chicken

Story behind the dish

For many, brown stew chicken is more than just a hearty meal—it's a warm hug in every bite. This dish holds a special place in Caribbean kitchens, where the aroma of spices mingling with simmering chicken instantly transports you to sunny islands and lively family gatherings. The secret lies in marinating the chicken with vibrant herbs and spices, then slow-cooking it in a rich coconut milk sauce that’s both comforting and unforgettable. Whether served over rice or enjoyed on its own, this stew embodies love, tradition, and the joy of sharing good food.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (about 3.5 lb or 1.6 kg)
• 1 large tomato, chopped
• 2 onions, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 lime (for juice)
• 2 teaspoons thyme
• 1 teaspoon allspice
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 2 cups coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Step-by-step

1. Squeeze the lime over the chicken pieces and rub well to tenderize and flavor the meat. Drain off any excess lime juice.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped tomato, onions, garlic, red pepper, thyme, allspice, and soy sauce. Add the chicken to the bowl, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least one hour.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or large saucepan over high heat. Remove each piece of chicken from the marinade, shaking off excess seasonings, and brown in hot oil until golden on all sides. Place browned chicken on a plate to rest.
4. Drain off any excess oil from the pan. Return the chicken to the pot and pour the reserved marinade over it. Add the chopped carrots. Stir and cook over medium heat for 10 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the coconut milk until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into the stew, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for another 20 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and flavorful.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For extra depth, add a splash of rum or a handful of chopped fresh herbs like cilantro just before serving.
• Serve this hearty stew over fluffy white rice, dumplings, or with crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.

Closing thoughts

With its comforting richness and bold, aromatic flavors, brown stew chicken is a dish that truly brings people together. Each step—marinating the chicken, browning it to perfection, and slow-cooking it in coconut milk—builds layers of flavor that will leave your loved ones longing for seconds. So gather your ingredients, turn on some soulful music, and enjoy the process of creating a beloved family recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite.