Caribbean Coconut Chicken
Antillean Coconut Chicken is a Caribbean-inspired dish featuring tender chicken simmered in coconut milk, aromatic herbs, and warm spices. Balanced with the subtle heat of Scotch bonnet pepper, it’s creamy, comforting, and perfect for family meals or festive gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Caribbean / Creole
Ingredients
1.2 kg chicken, cut into pieces (thighs or drumsticks)
1 onion, sliced
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 red or green bell pepper, sliced
2 scallions or spring onions, chopped
1 bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaf, parsley)
1 whole Scotch bonnet pepper (do not pierce)
200 ml coconut milk
2 tablespoons oil (sunflower or coconut)
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon turmeric or colombo powder (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Drizzle chicken pieces with lime juice, rinse lightly, then season with salt, pepper, garlic, and turmeric or colombo. Marinate for 30 minutes if possible.
- In a Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, scallions, and bell pepper for about 5 minutes.
- Add marinated chicken and brown on all sides, about 10 minutes.
- Add bouquet garni and whole Scotch bonnet pepper. Pour in a splash of water, cover, and simmer on low heat for 25–30 minutes.
- Stir in coconut milk and cook uncovered for another 10 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
- Adjust seasoning, then remove bouquet garni and Scotch bonnet before serving.
Notes
- Keep Scotch bonnet whole for mild heat, pierce it for spicier flavor.
- Add vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, or eggplant for more depth.
- Substitute turmeric with curry powder for a different flavor.
- Use turkey or shrimp instead of chicken for variation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Find it online: https://cheftinaskitchen.com/caribbean-coconut-chicken/
