Jamaican Chicken Soup: Caribbean Comfort in a Bowl

Last Updated on October 12, 2025 by Chef Josie

Bring a taste of the islands to your kitchen with this Jamaican Chicken Soup, a vibrant, hearty, and soul-warming dish that’s full of bold Caribbean flavor. Made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, pumpkin, and aromatic herbs, this soup is comfort food at its best.

Unlike traditional chicken soups, this one gets its golden hue and rich flavor from Caribbean staples like Scotch bonnet pepper, thyme, and pumpkin. It’s both nourishing and flavorful, making it a standout among Soup Recipes and a perfect dish for cozy evenings.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and hearty: Filled with chicken, pumpkin, and root vegetables.
• Flavor-packed: Infused with classic Jamaican seasonings and spices.
• Perfect comfort food: Ideal for Fall Soup Recipes and Winter Soup Recipes.
• One-pot simplicity: Easy cleanup and minimal prep.
• Authentic Caribbean flavor: A family favorite that warms the heart.

Ingredient Breakdown

1 ½ pounds chicken pieces (legs or thighs, skin removed) – Adds rich flavor and hearty texture.
1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing and building flavor.
1 small onion, chopped – Provides a savory base.
2 garlic cloves, minced – Adds depth and aroma.
1 sprig fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried) – A signature Jamaican seasoning.
1 medium carrot, sliced – Adds sweetness and color.
1 ear of corn, cut into chunks – Traditional in Jamaican soups for texture.
½ pound pumpkin or butternut squash, peeled and cubed – Gives the soup its signature golden color.
2 small potatoes, peeled and diced – Adds heartiness and helps thicken the soup.
1 green onion, chopped – Enhances flavor with a mild sharpness.
1 Scotch bonnet pepper (whole, optional) – Adds authentic Caribbean heat.
6 cups chicken broth – The flavorful base of the soup.
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon all-purpose seasoning or chicken bouillon – Boosts flavor.
Optional: dumplings (small flour and water dough pieces) – For added traditional texture.

Substitutions

• Use boneless chicken for easier serving.
• Substitute pumpkin with butternut squash or sweet potato.
• Adjust the heat level by adding or omitting the Scotch bonnet pepper.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté aromatics
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and thyme. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add chicken and sear
   Add chicken pieces to the pot. Cook for 4–5 minutes, turning to brown lightly on all sides.
3. Add vegetables and broth
   Add carrot, corn, pumpkin, potatoes, green onion, and chicken broth. Stir in all-purpose seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer until tender
   Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 40–45 minutes until chicken and vegetables are tender.
5. Add Scotch bonnet and finish
   Drop in the whole Scotch bonnet pepper (do not break it unless you want extra heat). Simmer for 5 more minutes, then remove pepper before serving.
6. Serve hot
   Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm with bread or fried dumplings.

Notes and Top Tips

• For authentic flavor, use fresh thyme and Scotch bonnet pepper.
• Leave the Scotch bonnet whole to infuse mild spice without overwhelming heat.
• Add Jamaican dumplings for a traditional touch.
• The soup thickens naturally from the pumpkin; adjust consistency with extra broth if desired.
• It tastes even better the next day after flavors meld.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

• Serve with: Jamaican fried dumplings, rice, or hard dough bread.
• Add-ins: Yellow yam, chocho (chayote), or green bananas for an authentic island twist.
• Vegan version: Substitute chicken with beans or lentils and use vegetable broth.
• Spice adjustment: Replace Scotch bonnet with mild chili or omit entirely for a gentle version.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze up to 3 months. Reheat slowly on the stovetop for best texture.
• Reheat: Warm over medium heat, adding broth or water as needed to loosen the consistency.

Why You’ll Make It Again

This Jamaican Chicken Soup | Caribbean Comfort in a Bowl is more than just a meal. It’s a taste of the islands—warm, colorful, and full of character. Its combination of earthy vegetables, savory chicken, and subtle spice makes it one of the best Soup Recipes to add to your rotation for cold days or when you just need a comforting bowl of flavor.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work perfectly and make the soup easier to serve.

What makes Jamaican Chicken Soup different?
The use of pumpkin, thyme, Scotch bonnet, and all-purpose seasoning gives it a unique Caribbean flavor and golden color.

Can I skip the Scotch bonnet pepper?
Yes. The soup will still be flavorful without the heat.

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