Jamaican Cookery

When you think of Jamaica’s national dish, ackee and saltfish probably comes to mind. But ackee, the buttery fruit that’s beloved across the island, isn’t just paired with saltfish. One delicious and lesser-known combination is ackee and chicken breast — a flavorful twist perfect for anyone seeking a new take on a traditional Jamaican favorite.

Whether you're using fresh or canned ackee, this recipe delivers bold Jamaican flavor with tender chicken breast pieces, aromatic herbs, and vibrant vegetables. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 chicken breasts, skin removed and cut into medium pieces

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp Maggi All Purpose seasoning

• 1 tsp Dash Original Season Blend

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp ground black pepper

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Seasoned Mix

• 1/2 onion, sliced

• 1 clove garlic, chopped

• 1/2 sweet pepper, chopped

• 1 stalk scallion, chopped

• 1 hot pepper (scotch bonnet or other, to taste)

For the Ackee

• 2 dozen fresh ackees (cleaned, frozen) OR

• 1 can ackee (rinsed and drained)

• Salt (for boiling if using fresh ackee)

• 1 tbsp ketchup (optional)

• Additional black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

1. Wash chicken breast pieces using a vinegar and water solution. Drain and pat dry.

2. In a bowl or container, season with salt, Maggi All Purpose, Dash blend, smoked paprika, black pepper, oregano, and basil.

3. Rub seasoning thoroughly into chicken. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to marinate.

Step 2: Prep Your Veggies

1. Slice and chop onion, garlic, sweet pepper, hot pepper, and scallion.

2. Place in a container, cover, and set aside until ready to cook.

Step 3: Prepare the Ackee

Using Fresh (Frozen) Ackee:

1. Bring a pot of water with a pinch of salt to a full boil.

2. Add frozen ackee directly to the boiling water.

3. Cover and cook for about 20 minutes or until the ackee is soft.

4. Strain and set aside.

Using Canned Ackee:

1. Open the can and strain out the liquid.

2. Rinse the ackee gently under tap water, drain, and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a Dutch pot or deep skillet over medium heat.

2. Pour in 1/4 cup vegetable oil and allow it to heat up.

3. Fry chicken pieces for about 4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

4. Once all chicken is cooked, pour off most of the oil, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pot.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Reduce heat to low. Add the chopped onion, peppers, garlic, and scallion to the pot.

2. Sauté for about 2 minutes, just until softened.

3. Return fried chicken pieces to the pot and mix with the vegetables.

4. Cover the pot for 2 minutes to let the flavors come together.

5. Gently fold in the cooked ackee (or canned ackee if using).

6. Sprinkle in a little black pepper and add 1 tablespoon ketchup if using.

7. Carefully stir everything together — do not mash the ackee.

8. Taste and adjust salt if needed.

9. Cover the pot and let everything steam for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat.

How to Serve Jamaican Chicken and Ackee

This savory dish pairs well with:

• White rice or rice and peas

• Fried dumplings

• Boiled green bananas or yam

• Festival or bammy

Serve hot and enjoy a wholesome, authentically Jamaican meal that’s packed with flavor and heart.

Tips for Cooking with Ackee

• Always ensure ackee is properly cleaned and cooked before eating, especially when using fresh fruit.

• Be gentle when stirring ackee into dishes to keep its texture intact.

• If you don’t have access to fresh ackee, high-quality canned ackee is a great substitute.