Jamaican Chicken Chop Suey: A Beginner-Friendly Recipe

Have you ever wanted to bring a taste of the Caribbean to your dinner table? Jamaican Chicken Chop Suey is the perfect dish to transport you to a vibrant tropical island without leaving your kitchen. Growing up, I vividly remember Sunday dinners when my grandmother prepared this dish. The aroma of seasoned chicken simmering with fresh vegetables filled the house, and it always felt like a celebration of flavor and culture.

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This dish is a Caribbean twist on the classic Chinese stir-fry, showcasing Jamaica’s bold, hearty flavors. The best part? It’s beginner-friendly, quick to prepare, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re a novice cook or simply looking for a healthier meal option, Jamaican Chicken Chop Suey is your go-to recipe. With a cooking time of just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

This article will guide you through every step, from ingredient preparation to serving suggestions, with tips to help you succeed. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients and Preparation

The Chicken

For this recipe, you can use either boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, depending on your preference. While traditional Caribbean cooks often use whole chicken (bones, skin, and all), boneless options make it easier to prepare and eat. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1–1½ pounds chicken tenderloins
• Seasonings: Fresh scallions, diced onions, minced garlic, and fresh thyme are essential to bring out the flavors. Don’t skip the scotch bonnet pepper—it adds a signature spicy kick!

Alternative Ingredients:

• If you prefer a milder dish, you can substitute scotch bonnet pepper with a milder chili or omit it altogether.
• Can’t find fresh thyme? Dried thyme works as well, though fresh is recommended for optimal flavor.

The Vegetables

Jamaican Chicken Chop Suey is as much about the vegetables as it is about the chicken. Traditionally, this recipe calls for:

• Bok choy
• Green cabbage
• Carrots (julienned)
• Green bell peppers
• Sugar snap peas

These vegetables add crunch, color, and nutrition to the dish. If you want to make it your own, feel free to customize:

Optional Additions:

• Broccoli for a heartier texture
• Corn for a touch of sweetness
• Cauliflower or green beans for variety

Pro Tip: Prep all your vegetables before cooking. Since this dish comes together quickly, having everything ready ensures a smooth process.

The Sauce

The sauce is a delicate balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors, enhanced with:

• 1 tablespoon gravy master
• 1 tablespoon fish and meat sauce (or 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce)
• 1 tablespoon ketchup

These ingredients combine to create a rich, glossy sauce that coats the chicken and vegetables beautifully.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Clean the chicken tenderloins and cut them into thin slices, about ½ inch thick.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken with the following:
   • 4 scallions (thinly sliced)
   • ½ medium white onion (diced)
   • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
   • 1 teaspoon chopped scotch bonnet pepper
   • 5 sprigs fresh thyme
   • 1 tablespoon chicken seasoning
   • 1 teaspoon paprika
   • ½ teaspoon black pepper
   • 1 tablespoon gravy master
3. Mix thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated with the seasonings. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Beginner Tip: Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable or olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot and slightly smoky, add the marinated chicken. Spread it evenly in the pan.
3. Cook uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The chicken will release its own juices, so there’s no need to add water.

Note: If using bone-in chicken, increase the cooking time by 5–7 minutes.

4. Add 1 tablespoon fish and meat sauce and 1 tablespoon ketchup. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

1. Start by adding 1 cup of sugar snap peas to the pan. Cook for 2–3 minutes, or until they turn bright green.
2. Gradually add the rest of the vegetables:
   • 2 cups sliced green cabbage
   • 1 cup sliced bok choy
   • 2 medium carrots (julienned)
   • ½ medium green bell pepper (thinly sliced)
3. Use tongs or a large spoon to toss the vegetables until they’re evenly coated in the sauce.

Pro Tip: Cook the vegetables uncovered for 10 minutes to retain some crunch. For softer vegetables, cook a few minutes longer.

4. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add salt to taste.

Step 4: Serve

Serve the Jamaican Chicken Chop Suey hot with your choice of:

• Steamed white or brown rice
• Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
• Toasted bread or Jamaican dumplings for a comforting twist

Beginner Tips and Notes

Troubleshooting:

• Chicken browns too quickly: Lower the heat and add a splash of water to the pan.
• Vegetables overcook: Remove the pan from heat as soon as they reach your desired texture.

Kitchen Tips:

• Save time by prepping vegetables and marinating the chicken the night before.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Pair Jamaican Chicken Chop Suey with simple sides to create a balanced meal. Consider:

• A fresh cucumber and tomato salad for a refreshing contrast
• A side of fried plantains for a touch of sweetness
• A drizzle of hot sauce for spice enthusiasts

Leftover Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

Jamaican Chicken Chop Suey is more than just a meal—it’s a vibrant celebration of Caribbean flavors and a nod to its cultural adaptation of international cuisine. With its simple ingredients, quick preparation, and endless customization options, this dish is perfect for beginner cooks looking to expand their repertoire.

So, why not give it a try? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the process of creating something truly delicious. And don’t forget to share your experience in the comments—I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!