Jamaican Chicken Soup

Jamaican Chicken Soup

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Warm up your weeknight with Jamaican Chicken Soup, a nourishing and flavorful dinner idea that brings bold Caribbean vibes to your table. This Jamaican Soup is packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, fluffy dumplings, and aromatic spices, all simmered in a rich broth. Perfect for cozy evenings or when you need a comforting, nutrient-rich meal, this Jamaican Chicken Soup is easy to make and deeply satisfying. Discover our Jamaican Chicken recipe for a soul-warming dinner idea!

Why You’ll Love This Jamaican Chicken Soup Recipe

This Jamaican Chicken Soup stands out among Jamaican Soup recipes for its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

  • Bold and Flavorful: Infused with Jamaican spices and herbs for an authentic Jamaican Chicken taste.
  • Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with protein, vitamins, and minerals for a healthy dinner idea.
  • Easy One-Pot Meal: Simple to prepare in a single pot, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Customizable: Adjust spice levels or veggies to suit your preferences in this Jamaican Soup.
  • Comforting and Hearty: Ideal for cozy nights or when you’re feeling under the weather.

What Makes Jamaican Chicken Soup Special?

This Jamaican Chicken Soup is a traditional Caribbean dish that’s both hearty and soul-soothing, often enjoyed on Saturdays in Jamaican households. It features a vibrant broth enriched with seared chicken, starchy vegetables like potatoes and corn, and tender dumplings called “spinners.” The bold flavors come from a mix of fresh thyme, scotch bonnet peppers, and Jamaican seasonings, making this Jamaican Soup a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and comforting. Whether you’re craving a taste of the islands or a nourishing dinner idea, this soup delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite.

Ingredients for Jamaican Chicken Soup

To make this Jamaican Chicken Soup (serves 6), gather these ingredients:

For the Chicken:

  • 2 lbs organic chicken (mix of drumsticks, thighs, or breasts, skin removed)
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp all-purpose seasoning (e.g., Flavo Rice)

For the Soup:

  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken stock (or vegetable stock/water)
  • 2 (16 oz) bags organic chicken bone broth
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 1/2 red onion, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • Handful fresh thyme sprigs
  • 2-3 scotch bonnet peppers, slit or chopped (or habaneros for less heat)
  • 2 medium Irish potatoes, peeled and cubed (or Yukon/Russet)
  • 4-6 mini corn on the cob (or 1 cup frozen corn)
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried parsley

Jamaican Spinners (Dumplings):

  • 1 cup organic all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
  • 1/4 cup cold filtered water (add more if needed)
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt

Ingredient Tips:

  • Chicken: Use a mix of cuts for flavor; remove skin for a lighter Jamaican Chicken Soup.
  • Scotch Bonnet Peppers: Adjust quantity for spice level; substitute with jalapeños for milder Jamaican Soup.
  • Bone Broth: Adds collagen and depth; brands like Bare & Bones or Kettle & Fire work well.
  • Dumplings: Use gluten-free flour for a GF Jamaican Chicken option; add water gradually for perfect spinners.

How to Make Jamaican Chicken Soup

Follow these steps to create a comforting Jamaican Chicken Soup:

  1. Season the Chicken: In a bowl, season 2 lbs chicken with 1 tsp each of salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and all-purpose seasoning. Marinate overnight for best flavor or at least 30 minutes.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear chicken pieces for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
  3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add 1/2 chopped red onion, 2 chopped carrots, and 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add a handful of thyme sprigs, 2-3 scotch bonnet peppers, 1 tsp each of salt, black pepper, turmeric, basil, and parsley. Stir for 1 minute.
  4. Build the Soup: Return seared chicken to the pot. Add 3 cups chicken stock, 2 bags bone broth, 2 cubed potatoes, and 4-6 mini corn cobs. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
  5. Make the Spinners: In a bowl, mix 1 cup flour and 1/2 tsp salt. Gradually add 1/4 cup cold water, kneading until a smooth dough forms (add more water if needed). Pinch off small pieces, roll into thin, elongated “spinners,” and add to the simmering soup.
  6. Simmer and Serve: Simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is tender, vegetables are soft, and dumplings are cooked through. Remove thyme sprigs and scotch bonnet peppers (if whole). Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with crusty bread, hard dough bread, or water crackers for a true Jamaican Chicken experience.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories: ~350 per serving (based on 6 servings)
Servings: 6

Macros per Serving: 30g carbs, 25g protein, 15g fat, 4g fiber

Tips for Perfect Jamaican Chicken Soup

  • Marinate Chicken: Season chicken overnight for deeper flavor in this Jamaican Chicken Soup.
  • Sauté Veggies: Cook onions, garlic, and carrots first to build a flavorful base for this Jamaican Soup.
  • Simmer Slowly: Let the soup simmer to meld flavors; avoid high heat to keep ingredients tender.
  • Adjust Spice: Use fewer scotch bonnet peppers or milder chiles for a less spicy dinner idea.
  • Perfect Spinners: Add water gradually to dumpling dough to avoid a sticky mess in this Jamaican Chicken dish.

Creative Variations for Jamaican Chicken Soup

Customize this Jamaican Chicken Soup with these ideas:

  • Pumpkin Base: Add 1 cup mashed pumpkin for a traditional Jamaican Soup twist.
  • Vegetarian: Swap chicken for beans or tofu and use vegetable stock for a meat-free dinner idea.
  • Root Veggies: Include yams or sweet potatoes for extra heartiness in this Jamaican Chicken Soup.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or extra scotch bonnet for a fiery Jamaican Soup.
  • Slow Cooker: Sear chicken and sauté veggies, then transfer to a slow cooker with remaining ingredients; cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

This Jamaican Chicken Soup is a vibrant dinner idea that shines with thoughtful presentation. Try these suggestions:

  • Serve in deep bowls with a sprig of thyme or parsley for a rustic Jamaican Soup look.
  • Pair with Jamaican hard dough bread or water crackers for an authentic Jamaican Chicken meal.
  • Offer alongside a light salad or fried plantains for a balanced dinner idea.
  • Present in a large tureen for family-style dining at gatherings.
  • Garnish with chopped scallions or a lemon wedge for a fresh Jamaican Chicken Soup touch.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days; dumplings may absorb liquid, so add extra stock when reheating.
  • Freeze: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for 4-6 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
  • Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding water or stock to restore consistency; avoid microwaving to preserve texture.
  • Prep Ahead: Marinate chicken and chop veggies a day in advance for quick Jamaican Chicken Soup prep.
  • Best Fresh: Enjoy soon after cooking for optimal flavor and texture in this Jamaican Soup.

FAQs About Jamaican Chicken Soup

Can I make Jamaican Chicken Soup gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free flour for the spinners and ensure all seasonings are GF for a gluten-free Jamaican Soup.

How do I store leftover Jamaican Soup?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for 2-3 days or freeze for 4-6 months; reheat with extra stock for this dinner idea.

Can I use other meats in Jamaican Chicken Soup?
Yes, try turkey or beef, but chicken is traditional for this Jamaican Chicken recipe.

What if I can’t find scotch bonnet peppers for Jamaican Soup?
Substitute with habaneros or jalapeños for a milder Jamaican Chicken Soup; adjust to taste.

Can I make Jamaican Chicken Soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, sear chicken and sauté veggies first, then cook on low for 6-8 hours for a hands-off dinner idea.

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Jamaican Chicken Soup

Conclusion

This Jamaican Chicken Soup is a hearty, flavorful dinner idea that brings the warmth of Jamaican cuisine to your table. With tender chicken, fluffy spinners, and bold spices, this Jamaican Soup is perfect for any night of the week. Make it today and savor the comforting, nutrient-rich goodness of this Jamaican Chicken masterpiece!

Jamaican Chicken Soup

Jamaican Chicken Soup

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dinner, Soup
Cuisine Jamaican
Servings 6 Servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 2 lbs organic chicken mix of drumsticks, thighs, or breasts, skin removed
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp all-purpose seasoning e.g., Flavo Rice

For the Soup:

  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken stock or vegetable stock/water
  • 2 16 oz bags organic chicken bone broth
  • 2 large carrots peeled and chopped
  • 1/2 red onion chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • Handful fresh thyme sprigs
  • 2-3 scotch bonnet peppers slit or chopped (or habaneros for less heat)
  • 2 medium Irish potatoes peeled and cubed (or Yukon/Russet)
  • 4-6 mini corn on the cob or 1 cup frozen corn
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried parsley

For the Jamaican Spinners (Dumplings):

  • 1 cup organic all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
  • 1/4 cup cold filtered water add more if needed
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt

Instructions
 

  • Season the Chicken: In a bowl, season 2 lbs chicken with 1 tsp each of salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and all-purpose seasoning. Marinate overnight for best flavor or at least 30 minutes.
  • Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear chicken pieces for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
  • Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add 1/2 chopped red onion, 2 chopped carrots, and 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add a handful of thyme sprigs, 2-3 scotch bonnet peppers, 1 tsp each of salt, black pepper, turmeric, basil, and parsley. Stir for 1 minute.
  • Build the Soup: Return seared chicken to the pot. Add 3 cups chicken stock, 2 bags bone broth, 2 cubed potatoes, and 4-6 mini corn cobs. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
  • Make the Spinners: In a bowl, mix 1 cup flour and 1/2 tsp salt. Gradually add 1/4 cup cold water, kneading until a smooth dough forms (add more water if needed). Pinch off small pieces, roll into thin, elongated “spinners,” and add to the simmering soup.
  • Simmer and Serve: Simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is tender, vegetables are soft, and dumplings are cooked through. Remove thyme sprigs and scotch bonnet peppers (if whole). Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with crusty bread, hard dough bread, or water crackers for a true Jamaican Chicken experience.

Notes

  • Marinate Chicken: Season chicken overnight for deeper flavor in this Jamaican Chicken Soup.
  • Sauté Veggies: Cook onions, garlic, and carrots first to build a flavorful base for this Jamaican Soup.
  • Simmer Slowly: Let the soup simmer to meld flavors; avoid high heat to keep ingredients tender.
  • Adjust Spice: Use fewer scotch bonnet peppers or milder chiles for a less spicy dinner idea.
  • Perfect Spinners: Add water gradually to dumpling dough to avoid a sticky mess in this Jamaican Chicken dish.

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Keyword healthy, one pot

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