Jamaican Curry Chicken Patties

Name: Jamaican Curry Chicken Patties
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 patties
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/4 cup ice water; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1/2 cup onion, chopped; 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Curry Chicken Patties! The vibrant spices, paired with the tender chicken filling, create a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Whenever I have friends over, these delightful treats are always a hit. The golden, flaky pastry combined with the fragrant curry invokes the essence of Caribbean cooking, making every bite a mini-vacation. Plus, they are perfect for both appetizers and main courses, bringing a taste of Jamaica right into my kitchen. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be craving more!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:02:30.649Z

Making Jamaican Curry Chicken Patties is a delightful experience that brings the rich flavors of Jamaica right to my kitchen. I find that allowing the spices to marinate with the chicken enhances the flavor immensely. I recommend making the filling a day in advance for the best results, as it gives the spices more time to meld together.

The key to achieving the perfect flaky pastry lies in using cold butter and ice water when making the dough. I always ensure that my ingredients are chilled to maintain that light and flaky texture, making each patty irresistibly delicious!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of warm spices and tender chicken.
Flaky pastry that adds a delightful crunch.
Great for entertaining or as a cozy family meal.

      

Understanding Ingredients

The key to a successful Jamaican Curry Chicken Patty lies in the carefully chosen ingredients. The combination of curry powder and fresh vegetables, such as onions and bell peppers, creates a flavorful filling that bursts with savory goodness. Opt for a high-quality curry powder to ensure that the spices are vibrant and aromatic. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can adjust the amount of curry powder or use a blend that suits your taste.

The dough forms the structural foundation of the patty. Using cold, unsalted butter is crucial as it helps create the flaky texture we desire. Make sure to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs—this will ensure that the fat remains solid, leading to a tender crust upon baking. If you're in a hurry, you can use a food processor for this step, processing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.

Perfecting the Technique

When making the patties, rolling out the dough to the right thickness is essential for achieving the perfect texture. Aim for about 1/8 inch; this thickness helps the outer crust bake evenly while keeping the filling succulent. A floured surface will prevent sticking, but don't over-flour as it can toughen the dough. If the dough is too dry and cracks during rolling, adding a teaspoon of ice water at a time can help bring it back together.

Assembling the patties can be a fun and creative process. After placing the filling on the dough circles, ensure you fold them over neatly and crimp the edges well. You can use a fork to create decorative edges and ensure they are sealed properly. Proper sealing is critical to prevent the filling from leaking during baking. If you encounter a leaky patty, consider adjusting the crimping technique to create a tighter seal.

Ingredients

For the Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/4 cup ice water
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Filling

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 tablespoon curry powder
1/2 cup onion, chopped
1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready!

Instructions

Make the Dough

In a bowl, mix the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough forms.

Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet, sauté the onions and bell peppers until soft. Add the shredded chicken, curry powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Let it cool.

Assemble the Patties

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut circles using a cutter. Place a spoonful of filling on one half of each circle, fold over, and crimp the edges to seal.

Bake

Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add chopped cilantro or green onions to the filling. Feel free to adjust the level of curry powder based on your taste preference.

Storage and Freezing Tips

These Jamaican Curry Chicken Patties can be made ahead of time, allowing for quick snacks or easy meals. After assembling the patties but before baking, you can place them on a baking sheet and freeze them individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and they can be stored for up to three months. When ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time for a perfectly puffed pastry.

For storing baked patties, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days. When reheating, I recommend using an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain the flaky texture. The microwave is convenient, but it may result in a soggier crust, so keep that in mind!

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Curry Chicken Patties are incredibly versatile. They can be served as appetizers at a party, as part of a hearty meal alongside rice and peas, or even as a savory snack at family gatherings. Pairing them with mango chutney or a spicy dipping sauce can elevate the flavor experience significantly. A cool cucumber salad or a zesty coleslaw makes for a refreshing side, balancing the warm spices of the patties.

For a variation, consider experimenting with the filling. Ground beef or lamb with a touch of jerk seasoning can create a unique twist, or for a vegetarian option, try using spiced lentils and vegetables. These adaptations offer a delightful way to enjoy the essence of Jamaican flavors while catering to different dietary preferences. Don't hesitate to get creative with the spices to suit your palate!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pastry?

Yes, store-bought pastry can save time and is a great alternative for making these patties.

→ How can I freeze the patties?

You can freeze uncooked patties before baking. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper.

→ What can I serve with these patties?

These patties pair wonderfully with a side salad or dipping sauces like mango chutney.

→ Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.