The Best Jamaican Chicken Stew Peas

coconut milk

🥗Healthier: light coconut milk

💰Cheaper: milk + coconut extract

Light coconut milk reduces calories while maintaining flavor.

scotch bonnet pepper

💰Cheaper: jalapeño

Jalapeño provides heat but is milder and more accessible.

red kidney beans

💰Cheaper: canned beans

Canned beans save time and are often cheaper.

chicken

🥗Healthier: turkey

💰Cheaper: chicken thighs

Turkey is lower in fat, while chicken thighs are more affordable.

Season chicken ahead of time for flavor.

Heat vegetable oil in a pot.

Fry chicken pieces until crispy and golden brown, about 5 minutes on each side.

Remove fried chicken and set aside, leaving some oil in the pot.

Add cooked peas (2.5 cups) and their liquid to the pot.

Stir to combine with chicken.

Add 1 cup of coconut milk and 1 cup of water.

Add fresh thyme and scallions, twisting scallions to release juices.

Add crushed garlic cloves, pimento seeds, and onion (optional).

Stir well to combine.

Add 2 teaspoons of dark soy sauce for color and flavor.

Add optional seasoning and carrots.

Add scotch bonnet pepper and 1 tablespoon of butter for flavor.

Add black pepper (1/2 teaspoon) and 1 teaspoon of brown sugar (optional).

Cover and cook on low flame for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: