Belizean Chicken Curry: A Tropical Take On A Classic Dish

Belizean curry chicken is a delicious, rich, and spicy dish that is easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. The recipe typically includes marinating chicken pieces in a blend of spices, such as curry powder, cumin, garlic, and peppers, before frying or browning the meat and creating a flavourful sauce. It is often served with rice, beans, and potato salad, offering a comforting and satisfying meal. The dish is known for its warm and satisfying flavours, leaving a lasting impression on those who try it.

Characteristics of Belizean Curry Chicken

Maring the chicken

Marination is a crucial step in preparing Belizean curry chicken as it infuses the chicken with flavour and makes it juicy and tender. Here is a guide on how to marinate the chicken for the best Belizean curry:

Firstly, wash and dry the chicken pieces. If you are using chicken thighs, cut them in half if they are large. You can use a variety of chicken pieces such as legs, thighs, and wings, preferably with the bone-in and skin-on.

Next, prepare the marinade. In a bowl, mix together the ingredients such as cilantro, jalapeño, onion, garlic, and chicken broth. You can also add other spices like thyme, cumin, garlic powder, and black pepper to the marinade for extra flavour. If you want a spicier dish, you can include hot peppers such as scotch bonnet or habanero. Alternatively, you can omit the peppers if you prefer a milder curry.

Once the marinade is ready, place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper. Then, pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure to coat each piece well. Use your hands or a brush to ensure the marinade is evenly distributed.

Cover the bowl and refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least one hour or up to 24 hours. The longer it sits, the more time the flavours have to develop and penetrate the meat. Be sure to stir the chicken occasionally during the marination process to ensure all pieces are evenly coated.

Once the chicken has finished marinating, you can move on to the cooking process. Heat some coconut oil, butter, or ghee in a large frying pan or Dutch oven. Remove the chicken pieces from the marinade, scraping off any excess solids, and add them to the hot oil. The chicken skin may stick to the pan, but don't worry, as it will loosen when you add the marinade later.

Follow the subsequent steps in the cooking process, and you will be well on your way to creating a delicious Belizean curry chicken dish!

Frying the chicken

Firstly, heat some oil in a large frying pan or Dutch oven. You can use coconut oil, butter, or ghee, or olive oil. Make sure you use enough oil to properly fry the chicken. For a more authentic flavour, coconut oil or butter is recommended. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it is hot but not smoking.

While the oil is heating, prepare the chicken. Wash and dry the chicken pieces, which can be legs, thighs, and wings, preferably with the bone in and skin on. If you are using large thighs, cut them in half. You can also cut the chicken into strips or bite-size pieces if you prefer. For a more authentic Belizean flavour, leave the bone in and the skin on.

Once the oil is hot, it's time to fry the chicken. Start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper, and any other desired spices or marinades. You can also marinate the chicken beforehand to infuse it with extra flavour. Add the chicken pieces to the hot oil, being careful not to crowd the pan. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary. Cook the chicken for about 10 minutes on each side, or until it is golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to flip the chicken, as the skin may stick to the pan. Don't worry about the stuck-on skin; it will loosen as you continue cooking.

After the chicken is browned, it's time to build the curry flavour. Remove some of the excess fat from the pan, leaving just enough to coat the bottom. Add your choice of spices and aromatics, such as garlic, onions, peppers, and curry powder. Stir everything together and cook for a few minutes to release the flavours.

Now, add your liquid ingredients. This can include chicken broth or stock, coconut milk, lime juice, or a combination of these. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Continue cooking the chicken in the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more curry powder or other spices as needed.

And that's it! You've successfully fried and cooked your chicken in a delicious Belizean-inspired curry sauce. Serve it with steamed rice, quinoa, or couscous, or Belizean-style with rice and beans. Enjoy your homemade Belizean curry chicken!

Making the sauce

The sauce is what makes Belizean curry chicken so special. It's a blend of spices and ingredients that come together to create a rich and flavourful dish. Here's a step-by-step guide to making the perfect Belizean curry chicken sauce:

Start by heating some oil in a frying pan or skillet. You can use vegetable oil, coconut oil, butter, or ghee, or olive oil, depending on your preference. Heat the oil over medium to medium-high heat.

Next, add your aromatics to the pan. This includes ingredients like onions, garlic, and sometimes ginger. Sauté these ingredients until they are softened and fragrant, being careful not to burn them. This step is crucial as it forms the base flavour of your sauce.

Now it's time to add the spices. Stir in curry powder, turmeric, cumin seeds, and paprika (if using). Cook this mixture for a few minutes to release the flavours and allow the spices to bloom. You'll know it's ready when your kitchen is filled with a mouthwatering aroma.

At this point, you can add some tomato paste or ketchup to the pan. This adds a touch of sweetness and a depth of flavour to the sauce. Give it a good stir to incorporate the tomato paste into the spice mixture.

If you're using yoghurt, add it to the pan now. Yoghurt adds a creamy texture and a tangy flavour to the sauce. Stir it in and let it cook for a couple of minutes.

Now, gradually add liquid to the pan to create the sauce base. You can use water, chicken broth, or coconut milk. For a thinner sauce, add more liquid, and for a thicker sauce, add less. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce to a simmer.

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more curry powder for spice, or a squeeze of lemon juice for some acidity. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can also add a pinch of sugar.

Let the sauce simmer for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavours to meld together. For an even deeper flavour, cook the sauce for a longer period over low heat. The longer it simmers, the more intense the flavours will become.

Once your sauce has reached the desired consistency and flavour, it's ready to be combined with the chicken. Follow the rest of the recipe instructions, and you'll have a delicious Belizean curry chicken dish to enjoy!

Cooking the chicken in the sauce

Now that your chicken is browned, it's time to add the reserved marinade to the pan and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes over medium heat. If the pan starts to look dry, add some more chicken broth.

Next, add the curry powder. You want to use around 2 tablespoons, but you can add more if you like your curry spicy. Swirl the powder around in the sauce, then add another cup of chicken broth. Scrape up the brown bits from the bottom of the pan as you do this to incorporate them into the sauce. Keep adding chicken broth until you have a nice, thick, spoonable sauce.

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. Then, spoon the sauce over the chicken pieces and let the dish cook over a medium to medium-low heat for another 15-20 minutes. This will allow the flavours to blend.

Your Belizean curry chicken is now ready to serve. It goes well with steamed rice, quinoa, rice and peas, or couscous.

Serving suggestions

Belizean curry chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of this delicious meal:

Rice and Beans

Combine cooked rice, such as steamed rice or coconut rice, with red kidney beans. Arrange the rice and beans as a ring on the plate and spoon the curried chicken into the centre. This presentation not only looks appealing but also offers a balanced meal with carbohydrates and protein.

Potato Salad

For a refreshing side dish, pair the curry chicken with a Belizean potato salad. This combination is a classic choice that complements the flavours of the curry. It adds a touch of creaminess and crispness to the meal.

Vegetables

If you're looking for a healthier option or want to include more vegetables in your meal, consider serving the curry chicken with steamed broccoli or any other steamed vegetables of your choice. You can also add a touch of colour and nutrition by including a side of salad, such as a fresh garden salad or a potato salad.

Couscous or Quinoa

For those who want a gluten-free or grain-based alternative to rice, couscous or quinoa are excellent options. They provide a similar texture and flavour profile while offering a change from the usual rice accompaniment.

Plantains

To add a touch of sweetness to the meal, consider serving fried plantains as a side dish. Plantains are a staple in many Belizean dishes, and their caramelised flavour can complement the spices in the curry chicken.

Hot Sauce

For those who enjoy an extra kick of spice, providing a bottle of hot sauce or a spicy condiment on the side will elevate the flavours. Marie Sharp's hot sauce is a popular choice in Belize and can enhance the overall dining experience.

Feel free to get creative and experiment with side dishes that suit your taste buds. You can also offer a variety of these suggestions as a buffet-style spread, allowing your guests to create their own unique combinations and enjoy a true taste of Belize.

Frequently asked questions