Jamaican Chicken Patties Recipe

Get ready for a flavor-packed flaky savory treat with a hearty filling as we dive into this Authentic Jamaican Chicken Patties Recipe, a true taste of tradition that has been satisfying taste buds for generations in the heart of the Caribbean.

Authentic Jamaican Chicken Patties Recipe

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I am excited to share with you my delicious recipe for Authentic Jamaican Chicken Patties. These savory pastries are a staple not only in Jamaica but here in Toronto and are known for their unique blend of spices and flavors. Whether you’re looking for a snack, appetizer, or main course, these spicy Jamaican chicken beef patties are the perfect meal choice for any occasion.

As a passionate cook, I’m always excited to explore new traditional recipes. And when it comes to bold flavors and vibrant spices, Jamaican food is undoubtedly one of my favorites. From the succulent Jerk Chicken to the flavourful Traditional Jamaican Beef Patties, their food is a fusion of African, European, and Asian influences that create a unique and delightful culinary experience.

Jamaica is known for its spicy and aromatic ingredients such as Scotch Bonnet peppers, allspice, and thyme, which give dishes a distinctive taste and aroma. Jamaican cuisine is also famous for its meat dishes such as Oxtail Stew, Curried Goat, and of course, the world-renowned Brown Stew Chicken.

With its rich history and diverse cultural influences, Jamaican cuisine should not be missed. So, join me, and let’s both get into the world of Jamaican cooking and explore the flavors and traditions that make it so unique.

Spicy Jamaican Chicken Patties 😋

Alright, folks, let’s talk about these Spicy Jamaican Chicken Patties, they’re like a flavor-packed explosion in your mouth! Picture this, tender chunks of chicken, seasoned to perfection with a blend of spices that scream Caribbean vibes. But that’s not all; we’ve got Scotch Bonnet peppers, thyme, and smoky paprika in the mix, creating a fiery sensation that’ll make your taste buds dance like nobody’s watching.

Now, I know what you might be thinking, “Is it too spicy?” Well, fear not, my friends. We’ve got a secret weapon to balance all that heat, a golden, flaky pastry crust that wraps around that spicy filling like a protective shield. So, whether you’re a spice enthusiast or just looking to add a little excitement to your meals, these Spicy Jamaican Chicken Patties are pure bliss, and I can’t wait for you to try them. 🌶️🏝️🍗

THE ORIGIN OF JAMAICAN CHICKEN PATTIES

If you’re a fan of Jamaican cuisine, then you know that Jamaican Chicken Patties are a must-try dish. But have you ever wondered about their origin? Let me touch a little bit on the history and evolution of this beloved Jamaican snack.

Like many traditional dishes, the roots of Jamaican Chicken Patties can be traced back to the country’s history and cultural influences. The recipe for the filling, which uses a mix of ground meat and a variety of spices, has its origins in West Africa, which was home to many Jamaican slaves. Over time, Jamaican cooks adapted and refined the dish, incorporating ingredients and flavors from other cultures.

While the exact origins of Jamaican Patties are unclear, they are believed to have become popular in Jamaica in the 20th century. At first, they were mostly sold by street vendors or local bakeries, but eventually, they gained national and international recognition.

In the 1960s and 1970s, Jamaican immigrants began to bring their favorite foods with them when they moved to other countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. This led to the spread of Jamaican patties outside of Jamaica, and they are now enjoyed by people all over the world.

Why You Will Love This Jamaican Chicken Patty Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this Jamaican Chicken Patty Recipe, here are a few: 💖👇

• Flaky Buttery Perfection: The flaky pastry dough is made using butter, and a touch of turmeric is added for that irresistible golden patty color that bakes into layers of flaky perfection that will have you reaching for seconds.
• Spice Sensation: We’re talking about a harmonious blend of allspice, thyme, and the legendary Scotch bonnet pepper, ensuring each patty bursts with the authentic flavors of Jamaica. It’s a tantalizing dance of spices that will set your taste buds tingling.
• Customizable: Whether you’re a spice enthusiast or prefer a milder flavor, this recipe caters to your taste preferences. You’re in control of the heat level, making these patties a hit with everyone at the table.
• Hearty and Satisfying: The filling, featuring ground chicken and a medley of aromatic spices and veggies, offers a hearty, satisfying bite that will leave you fully satisfied.
• Easy Meal Prep: The best part? These chicken patties freeze beautifully, so you can have a taste of the Caribbean at your fingertips whenever those cravings hit. It’s meal prep that adds a dash of Caribbean flair to your kitchen.🌴🍽️

Jamaican Chicken Patty Ingredients

Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients you’ll need to create these mouthwatering Authentic Jamaican Chicken Patties: Note, the full list of ingredients and their measurements are below in the recipe card.

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our golden, flaky pastry dough. No substitutes here – it’s the real deal!
• Cold Unsalted Butter: This is what gives our pastry dough its rich and buttery goodness. No shortcuts – it’s the classic way!
• Turmeric: Essential for achieving that vibrant, sunshine yellow color in the pastry. Plus, it adds a warm, earthy flavor that’s unmistakably Jamaican.
• Ground Chicken: The star of the show! Lean and flavorful, it’s the heart of our patty filling. No compromises here, it’s chicken all the way!
• Scotch Bonnet Pepper: The fiery soul of the dish! It brings the authentic Jamaican heat. If you can’t handle the heat, you can opt for a milder chili. 🌶️
• Thyme & Allspice: These herbs and spices are the essence of Caribbean cooking. They infuse our filling with that sunny Jamaican flavor.
• Curry Powder: The signature spice that adds a fragrant depth of flavor to our filling, giving it that unmistakable Jamaican twist.
• Breadcrumbs: The secret to a perfectly thickened and moist filling. They lock in the juiciness, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Chicken Broth: The foundation of flavor for our filling. It’s what makes our patties rich and delicious. You can use vegetable broth as a veggie-friendly option.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Classic seasonings that elevate all the flavors. Simple, elegant, and essential.
• Onions & Scallions: A finely chopped blend that adds depth and a hint of sweetness, harmonizing the robust flavors.
• Garlic: Just a touch to give our filling a punch of flavor that blends seamlessly.
• Paprika: This spice brings a subtle smokiness and a pop of color to our filling, making it visually enticing.
• Vegetable Oil: Used in the filling to keep it moist and flavorful.
• Egg (for egg wash): Optional but highly recommended for that glossy, golden finish that makes our patties shine. 🌞

Tips To Make The Best Jamaican Chicken Patties Recipe

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to making the best Jamaican chicken patties:

1. Keep the Dough Cold: When making the pastry dough, use cold butter and ice water. Keeping the dough cold ensures that it remains flaky and tender when baked.
2. Use Turmeric Sparingly: Turmeric adds color and a mild earthy flavor to the pastry. Be careful not to overdo it, as it can become bitter if too much is used.
3. Season the Filling Well: Don’t skimp on the seasoning for the chicken filling. Jamaican patties are known for their bold flavors, so be generous with the thyme, allspice, Scotch bonnet pepper, and curry powder.
4. Mix the Filling Thoroughly: Ensure that the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the ground chicken mixture for consistent flavor in every bite.
5. Taste Test: Before assembling the patties, cook a small amount of the filling and taste it. Adjust the seasonings if needed to suit your spice preference.
6. Roll Dough Evenly: When rolling out the pastry dough, try to make it as even as possible. This ensures that the patties cook uniformly, with no parts overcooking or undercooking.
7. Use an Egg Wash: Brushing the patties with an egg wash before baking gives them a beautiful golden color and a slightly glossy finish.
8. Chill Before Baking: After assembling the patties, refrigerate them for about 30 minutes. This helps the pastry firm up and keeps it from becoming too soft during baking.
9. Ventilate the Patties: Before baking, use a fork to create a few small vents on top of each patty. This allows steam to escape while baking, preventing them from becoming soggy.
10. Bake Until Golden: Bake the patties until they are golden brown and the pastry is crisp. This ensures a delightful texture and flavor.
11. Let Them Rest: Allow the patties to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the flavors settle before serving.

How To Make Jamaican Chicken Patties

For Jamaican Chicken Patty Filling:

1. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
2. Add the ground chicken to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s no longer pink.
3. Stir in the Jamaican curry powder, ground allspice, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for a couple of minutes to toast the spices and enhance the flavor.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened and most of the liquid has evaporated.
5. Add the chopped scallions, Scotch bonnet pepper, and fresh parsley to the chicken mixture. Stir well and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and let it cool.

For the Pastry Dough:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and turmeric powder.
2. Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the cold water to the mixture while gently kneading the dough until it comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
4. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes.

Assemble The Jamaican Chicken Patties

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.
3. Cut the dough into circles or rectangles, depending on your preference and the size of patties you’d like to make.
4. Place a spoonful of the prepared authentic Jamaican chicken patty filling in the center of each piece of dough.
5. Fold the dough over the filling and use a fork to seal the edges, creating the classic patty shape.
6. Beat the egg and use it to brush the tops of the patties.
7. Place the patties on a baking sheet and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Are Jamaican patties a Canadian thing?

Jamaican patties didn’t originate in Canada, but they’ve gained significant popularity in the country, especially in cities with diverse populations. These patties are pastry pockets filled with seasoned meat, such as beef, chicken, or vegetables, known for their flaky crust and spicy flavors. They have their roots in Jamaica, forming a fundamental part of Jamaican cuisine.

In Canada, Jamaican patties are readily available in bakeries, fast-food joints, and grocery stores, often enjoyed as a convenient and flavorful snack or meal. The widespread appeal of Jamaican patties in Canada can be attributed to the country’s multiculturalism and its appreciation of various culinary traditions. They have become a beloved element of Canadian cuisine, particularly in cities with sizable Caribbean communities.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?

Certainly, for Jamaican chicken patties, you can often substitute ground turkey for ground chicken. They have similar textures and can work well in this recipe. Just be aware that ground turkey may have a milder flavor and can be a bit drier, so adjust seasonings and moisture as needed to match the desired taste and texture in your Jamaican chicken patty filling.

What side dishes pair well with Jamaican chicken patties?

Consider traditional accompaniments like rice and peas, fried plantains, or a refreshing coleslaw. These sides complement the flavors nicely.

Can I freeze the Jamaican Chicken Patties?

Yes, you can freeze Jamaican chicken. Freezing is a convenient way to store them for later use while preserving their flavor and quality. Here’s how to freeze Jamaican chicken:

1. Allow them to cool: Let the patties cool to room temperature after cooking or buying them.
2. Individually wrap or layer: You can choose to wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Alternatively, you can layer them with parchment paper or wax paper in between to prevent sticking if you plan to freeze multiple patties together in a single container.
3. Place in an airtight container or freezer bag: Once wrapped or layered, place the patties in an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to minimize freezer burn.
4. Label and date: It’s a good practice to label the container or bag with the date of freezing to keep track of their freshness.
5. Freeze: Put the container or bag of patties in the freezer. Make sure your freezer is set to 0°F (-18°C) or lower for optimal storage.

Frozen Jamaican chicken can be stored for several months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply remove the desired number of patties from the freezer, and you can reheat them in the oven or microwave following the original cooking instructions or until they are heated through.

How should I serve these patties for the best experience?

Serve them warm to fully appreciate their flavors. Whether as a snack, appetizer, or main course, they invite you to savor the essence of Jamaica.

Want More? These Jamaican Recipes Are Must-Tries 🙌

• Flaky Jamaican Beef Patties
• Jamaican Red Pea Soup
• Jamaican Jerk Chicken
• Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken