There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Jamaican Chicken Soup to warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re craving comfort on a chilly day or looking for a nourishing meal packed with bold Caribbean flavors, this soup delivers. With tender chicken, hearty root vegetables, and a fragrant broth infused with thyme, pimento, and Scotch bonnet pepper, every spoonful is a taste of home-style Jamaican cooking.

What makes this soup truly special is its versatility—you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to your liking. Plus, the addition of spinners (dumplings) gives it that signature heartiness. If you’re ready to bring a little island warmth into your kitchen, let’s dive into this flavorful, wholesome, and satisfying recipe!

Key Benefits of Jamaican Chicken Soup

Jamaican Chicken Soup isn’t just a meal—it’s a warm, nourishing hug in a bowl. Rooted in rich Caribbean tradition, this soup is more than just comfort food. It’s a nutrient-packed, immune-boosting dish that brings together bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner, a remedy for cold weather, or simply a taste of authentic Jamaican cooking, this soup has you covered.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

• Deep, Robust Flavor – A slow-simmered broth infused with thyme, scallions, pimento (allspice), and Scotch bonnet pepper creates a rich and aromatic base.
• Nutritious & Filling – Packed with protein-rich chicken, fiber-loaded root vegetables, and iron-boosting dumplings (spinners), this soup is both satisfying and nourishing.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether served as a cozy meal on a rainy day or as part of a festive Caribbean feast, it’s always a hit.
• Easily Customizable – You can adjust the heat level, swap in different vegetables, or even make it creamy with a splash of coconut milk.
• Great for Meal Prep – This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day, allowing flavors to deepen and develop further.

A Dish with Cultural Roots

Jamaican Chicken Soup is a staple in many households across the island, often enjoyed on Saturdays as part of a traditional weekend meal. The combination of spinners (dumplings), pumpkin, yams, and Scotch bonnet pepper reflects the heart of Caribbean cooking—simple, wholesome, and packed with bold flavors. If you’ve never tried it before, this recipe is the perfect introduction to the vibrant world of Jamaican cuisine.

Before diving into the ingredients and step-by-step guide, let’s explore what you’ll need to bring this comforting dish to life.

Ingredients for Jamaican Chicken Soup

Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating an authentic and flavorful Jamaican Chicken Soup. Each component plays a vital role in building the rich, hearty broth and delivering the comforting, well-rounded taste that makes this dish a staple in Jamaican households. Below is a breakdown of everything you’ll need, along with helpful substitutions and tips to customize the soup to your preference.

Main Ingredients

• Chicken (bone-in, skin removed) – Using bone-in chicken pieces such as drumsticks, thighs, or a whole chopped chicken enhances the depth of flavor in the broth.
• Water or Chicken Stock – A homemade chicken stock will add more richness.
• Pumpkin (or Butternut Squash) – Adds a subtle sweetness and helps thicken the broth naturally.
• Carrots – Bring a hint of sweetness and color to the soup.
• Yam (or Sweet Potato) – A starchy addition that enhances the soup’s body and provides a naturally creamy texture.
• Chocho (Chayote Squash) – A mild, slightly crisp vegetable that absorbs the flavors of the broth.
• Irish Potatoes – Regular potatoes make the soup even heartier and help balance the spice.
• Scallions – A key aromatic that enhances the broth’s flavor.
• Thyme (Fresh or Dried) – Essential for achieving that signature Jamaican flavor.
• Pimento (Allspice Berries) – Provides warmth and depth to the soup’s seasoning.
• Scotch Bonnet Pepper – The heart of Jamaican spice, adding a fruity heat. (For less spice, keep it whole; for more heat, slice it open.)
• Garlic and Onion – Build the foundation for a rich and flavorful broth.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the soup’s natural flavors.

For the Dumplings (Spinners)

• All-Purpose Flour – The base for making spinners, a type of dumpling that gives the soup extra texture.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor of the dumplings.
• Water – Helps form the dough.

Optional Additions & Substitutions

• Coconut Milk – For a richer, creamier broth, add a splash towards the end.
• Green Bananas or Cassava – Adds more authentic Caribbean flavors and texture.
• Corn on the Cob (Cut into Pieces) – A popular addition for a slightly sweet contrast.
• Maggie or Chicken Bouillon Cube – For extra depth of flavor, some cooks like to include this.

Ingredient Preparation Tips

• Prepping the Chicken – Rinse the chicken with a mixture of water and lime juice or vinegar to remove any impurities and enhance freshness.
• Handling Scotch Bonnet Peppers – If you’re sensitive to heat, wear gloves when handling and avoid touching your face.
• Making Spinners – Combine flour, salt, and water to form a firm dough, then roll small pieces between your palms into long, thin dumplings before adding them to the soup.

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step cooking process to bring this delicious soup to life.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Jamaican Chicken Soup

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to bring this rich, flavorful Jamaican Chicken Soup to life. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure the perfect balance of spices, hearty vegetables, and tender chicken, creating a bowl of comfort that’s both nourishing and satisfying.

1. Prepare the Chicken and Aromatics

Before cooking, it’s important to properly clean and season the chicken to enhance its flavor.

• Rinse the bone-in chicken pieces with a mixture of water and lime juice (or vinegar) to remove any impurities.
• Pat the chicken dry, then season lightly with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of allspice for extra depth.
• In a large pot over medium heat, add a drizzle of oil and sauté the onions, garlic, scallions, and thyme for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

2. Build the Flavorful Broth

The foundation of any great soup lies in its broth, and this one is no exception.

• Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pot and stir to coat with the aromatics. Let them cook for about 5 minutes until lightly browned.
• Pour in water or chicken stock, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged.
• Toss in pimento (allspice berries) and a whole Scotch bonnet pepper (keep it whole for mild heat, or slice it for a spicier broth).
• Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer and let the chicken cook for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

3. Add the Vegetables and Dumplings (Spinners)

This is where the soup starts to come together with hearty textures and a rich, comforting taste.

• Add the pumpkin, carrots, yams, potatoes, and chocho (chayote squash) to the pot. Stir well to incorporate them into the broth.
• In a small bowl, mix flour, salt, and water to form a firm dough. Pinch off small pieces and roll them between your palms to create long, thin dumplings (spinners).
• Drop the spinners into the pot one by one, ensuring they don’t stick together.
• Let the soup simmer for another 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Final Seasoning and Adjustments

As the soup nears completion, fine-tuning the flavors is key.

• Taste the broth and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• If you prefer a richer texture, mash some of the softened pumpkin against the side of the pot and stir it in.
• For a creamier variation, add a splash of coconut milk at this stage.
• Remove the Scotch bonnet pepper if you want to keep the heat level controlled.

5. Serve and Enjoy

After simmering to perfection, your Jamaican Chicken Soup is ready to be enjoyed.

• Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot with hard dough bread.
• Serve hot with hard dough bread or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for added brightness.
• Allow the soup to rest for a few minutes before eating—this helps the flavors deepen even further.

With its bold Caribbean spices, tender chicken, and hearty vegetables, this soup is guaranteed to warm you up and leave you feeling completely satisfied. Now, let’s explore some pro tips and variations to customize this dish to your liking.

Pro Tips and Variations for the Perfect Jamaican Chicken Soup

Jamaican Chicken Soup is a dish that welcomes creativity while staying true to its rich, comforting flavors. Whether you want to adjust the spice level, explore new ingredient combinations, or enhance the depth of the broth, these pro tips and variations will help you customize the soup to your taste.

Pro Tips for the Best Flavor and Texture

• Use Bone-In Chicken for Maximum Flavor
  Bone-in chicken adds depth to the broth, making it richer and more robust. If you prefer boneless chicken, use a combination of thighs and breasts to maintain tenderness.
• Control the Heat from Scotch Bonnet Pepper
  • Keep the pepper whole for a subtle warmth.
  • Slice it open for a spicier kick.
  • Remove the seeds to reduce heat while still getting the fruity notes.
• Let the Soup Simmer Slowly
  The longer the soup simmers, the more the flavors develop. Aim for at least 45-60 minutes to allow the ingredients to meld beautifully.
• Mash Some of the Pumpkin for a Thicker Broth
  If you love a slightly thicker consistency, mash some of the softened pumpkin and stir it back into the soup. This naturally enhances the texture without needing additional thickeners.
• Add the Dumplings (Spinners) at the Right Time
  Drop in the spinners about 30 minutes before serving so they cook through without becoming too soft.
• Balance the Seasonings
  If the soup tastes too mild, adjust with a little more salt, black pepper, or a dash of allspice. If it’s too spicy, add extra pumpkin or coconut milk to mellow it out.

Variations to Try

• Coconut Milk for a Creamier Version
  A splash of coconut milk adds a velvety texture and a slightly sweet contrast to the spicy, savory broth. Add it during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• Vegetarian Option
  Swap the chicken for hearty root vegetables like cassava, green bananas, and extra yams. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock and add kidney beans for extra protein.
• Seafood Twist
  For a unique variation, substitute chicken with fish fillets, shrimp, or crab. Add seafood towards the last 10 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking.
• Extra Hearty with More Vegetables
  Enhance the soup with additional Caribbean vegetables like breadfruit, callaloo, or okra. These ingredients add variety and authenticity.
• Mild Version for Kids
  If serving children, omit the Scotch bonnet pepper and reduce the pimento (allspice) slightly for a gentler flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Jamaican Chicken Soup

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing – This soup freezes well! Let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
• Reheating – Warm over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or stock to loosen the consistency if needed.

With these pro tips and variations, you can tailor Jamaican Chicken Soup to fit your personal preferences while keeping its authentic, comforting essence intact. Now, let’s explore the best ways to serve this flavorful dish.

Serving Suggestions for Jamaican Chicken Soup

Jamaican Chicken Soup is a meal in itself, packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and comforting dumplings. However, the right accompaniments and serving techniques can take this dish to the next level. Whether you’re enjoying it as a family dinner, a weekend tradition, or a cozy meal on a rainy day, here are some ways to enhance the experience.

How to Serve Jamaican Chicken Soup

• Ladle It Hot
  This soup is best served piping hot, allowing the deep, rich flavors to shine. Ensure each bowl has a good balance of chicken, spinners, and vegetables for the full experience.
• Garnish for Extra Freshness
  • A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a touch of brightness that balances the rich broth.
  • Sprinkle chopped scallions or parsley for a fresh, herbaceous note.
  • If you enjoy extra heat, serve with sliced Scotch bonnet peppers on the side.
• Pair with Traditional Jamaican Sides
  While delicious on its own, this soup pairs wonderfully with classic Caribbean sides:
  • Hard Dough Bread – This slightly dense, slightly sweet bread is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
  • Boiled Green Bananas – A traditional side that complements the soup’s heartiness.
  • Jamaican Festival Bread – A lightly sweet, fried bread that balances the savory depth of the soup.
  • Fried Plantains – Adds a caramelized sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the spice.
• Make It a Complete Meal
  • If serving for lunch or dinner, pair it with a light salad to balance the richness.
  • Offer extra dumplings (spinners) on the side for those who love a heartier dish.

The Best Occasions to Enjoy This Soup

• Weekend Comfort Food – A Saturday tradition in many Jamaican households, this soup is the ultimate weekend meal.
• Cold or Rainy Days – Its warm, soothing broth makes it perfect for chilly weather.
• When Feeling Under the Weather – With its nutrient-dense ingredients and gentle heat, this soup is often enjoyed as a natural remedy for colds and flu.
• Family Gatherings – A large pot of Jamaican Chicken Soup is a great way to bring everyone together for a hearty, flavorful meal.

Tips for Serving Leftovers

• Flavors Improve Overnight
  This soup tastes even better the next day as the spices and seasonings continue to develop.
• Thickening the Broth
  If the soup thickens overnight, simply add a splash of hot water or stock when reheating to loosen it up.
• Quick Reheat Tip
  Warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Avoid microwaving on high, as it may overcook the dumplings.

Whether you’re enjoying it freshly made or as leftovers, Jamaican Chicken Soup is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort in every bowl. Now that you know how to serve it, let’s wrap things up with a final takeaway on why this soup deserves a spot in your kitchen.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Jamaican Chicken Soup

Jamaican Chicken Soup is more than just a dish—it’s an experience. With its bold Caribbean spices, tender chicken, hearty root vegetables, and comforting dumplings, every spoonful brings warmth, nourishment, and a taste of tradition.

Whether you’re craving a soul-soothing meal, feeding your family, or exploring authentic Caribbean recipes, this soup is a must-try.

Give this recipe a try, and let it become a staple in your home. You won’t regret it!

FAQs:

To help you get the best results from this Jamaican Chicken Soup Recipe, here are answers to some frequently asked questions. Whether you’re wondering about ingredient swaps, spice levels, or storage tips, these insights will ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience.

These FAQs should help you navigate any adjustments or concerns while making this deliciously authentic Jamaican Chicken Soup. Now, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start cooking!

jamaican chicken soup recipe

C. Sophie

Warm up with this Jamaican Chicken Soup Recipe a hearty, flavorful dish with tender chicken, root vegetables, and dumplings. Perfect for any occasion!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Course Main Course, Soup

Cuisine Fusion (Caribbean/Latin-inspired), jamaican

Servings 6 Servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

• Chicken bone-in, skin removed – Using bone-in chicken pieces such as drumsticks, thighs, or a whole chopped chicken enhances the depth of flavor in the broth.
• Water or Chicken Stock – A homemade chicken stock will add more richness.
• Pumpkin or Butternut Squash – Adds a subtle sweetness and helps thicken the broth naturally.
• Carrots – Bring a hint of sweetness and color to the soup.
• Yam or Sweet Potato – A starchy addition that enhances the soup’s body and provides a naturally creamy texture.
• Chocho Chayote Squash – A mild, slightly crisp vegetable that absorbs the flavors of the broth.
• Irish Potatoes – Regular potatoes make the soup even heartier and help balance the spice.
• Scallions – A key aromatic that enhances the broth’s flavor.
• Thyme Fresh or Dried – Essential for achieving that signature Jamaican flavor.
• Pimento Allspice Berries – Provides warmth and depth to the soup’s seasoning.
• Scotch Bonnet Pepper – The heart of Jamaican spice adding a fruity heat. (For less spice, keep it whole; for more heat, slice it open.)
• Garlic and Onion – Build the foundation for a rich and flavorful broth.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the soup’s natural flavors.

For the Dumplings (Spinners)

• All-Purpose Flour – The base for making spinners a type of dumpling that gives the soup extra texture.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor of the dumplings.
• Water – Helps form the dough.

Instructions

 

Prepare the Chicken and Aromatics

• Before cooking, it’s important to properly clean and season the chicken to enhance its flavor.
• Rinse the bone-in chicken pieces with a mixture of water and lime juice (or vinegar) to remove any impurities.
• Pat the chicken dry, then season lightly with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of allspice for extra depth.
• In a large pot over medium heat, add a drizzle of oil and sauté the onions, garlic, scallions, and thyme for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

Build the Flavorful Broth

• The foundation of any great soup lies in its broth, and this one is no exception.
• Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pot and stir to coat with the aromatics. Let them cook for about 5 minutes until lightly browned.
• Pour in water or chicken stock, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged.
• Toss in pimento (allspice berries) and a whole Scotch bonnet pepper (keep it whole for mild heat, or slice it for a spicier broth).
• Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer and let the chicken cook for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Add the Vegetables and Dumplings (Spinners)

• This is where the soup starts to come together with hearty textures and a rich, comforting taste.
• Add the pumpkin, carrots, yams, potatoes, and chocho (chayote squash) to the pot. Stir well to incorporate them into the broth.
• In a small bowl, mix flour, salt, and water to form a firm dough. Pinch off small pieces and roll them between your palms to create long, thin dumplings (spinners).
• Drop the spinners into the pot one by one, ensuring they don’t stick together.
• Let the soup simmer for another 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Final Seasoning and Adjustments

• As the soup nears completion, fine-tuning the flavors is key.
• Taste the broth and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• If you prefer a richer texture, mash some of the softened pumpkin against the side of the pot and stir it in.
• For a creamier variation, add a splash of coconut milk at this stage.
• Remove the Scotch bonnet pepper if you want to keep the heat level controlled.

Serve and Enjoy

• After simmering to perfection, your Jamaican Chicken Soup is ready to be enjoyed.
• Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot with hard dough bread.
• Serve hot with hard dough bread or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for added brightness.
• Allow the soup to rest for a few minutes before eating—this helps the flavors deepen even further.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 750mg
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 25g

Keyword authentic Jamaican soup, Caribbean soupp, chicken soup with dumplings, Jamaican chicken soup