Nourishing Jamaican Chicken Soup

There’s nothing more comforting than a hearty bowl of Jamaican Chicken Soup. Packed with chicken, carrots, potatoes, corn, dumplings (“spinners”), and bold seasonings, this traditional soup is nourishing, flavorful, and full of island soul. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner, a Saturday tradition, or a natural remedy when you’re under the weather, this soup is guaranteed to hit the spot.

With its blend of fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices simmered in a rich chicken broth (and often bone broth for extra nutrients), Jamaican Chicken Soup is more than just a meal—it’s comfort in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic flavor – traditional Jamaican seasonings and “spinners” keep it classic.
Nutrient-rich – loaded with vitamins, protein, and minerals from chicken, bone broth, and veggies.
Family-friendly – hearty, filling, and kid-approved.

Customizable – gluten-free dumpling option and a slow cooker method for convenience.
Healing and comforting – perfect when you need a nourishing boost.

What is Jamaican Chicken Soup?

In Jamaica, chicken soup is a Saturday staple. Traditionally made with a chicken-and-pumpkin base, it’s filled with root vegetables (called “ground provision”), dumplings, and fresh herbs. Each pot may vary, but the key elements are the same: hearty, flavorful, and comforting.

Ground provisions often include Irish potatoes, sweet potatoes, yams, cassava, or plantains, giving the soup its distinct heartiness. Spinners (thin, rolled dumplings) add extra body and make it a satisfying meal on their own.

Key Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this nourishing soup:

Chicken – drumsticks, thighs, or breasts (skin removed).
Corn – fresh or frozen; cut into cobs or smaller pieces.
Potatoes – Irish potatoes are classic, but Yukon, Russet, or baby reds work too.
Carrots, onions, and garlic – for flavor, color, and nutrients.
Fresh thyme – a must-have for Jamaican soups.
Scotch bonnet peppers – for that authentic heat (sub with habanero or jalapeño for milder spice).
Chicken stock + bone broth – adds depth, collagen, and extra nutrients.
Turmeric powder – for color and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Dried herbs & spices – smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and all-purpose Jamaican seasoning.
Spinners (dumplings) – made with flour, salt, and water for the perfect chewy texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season + Sear the Chicken

Coat the chicken with spices (salt, pepper, paprika, onion and garlic powder, and all-purpose seasoning). In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil and sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

2. Build the Flavor Base

In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Add carrots, thyme, and seasonings, stirring to coat the veggies.

3. Simmer the Soup

Add chicken stock, bone broth, corn, potatoes, scotch bonnet, and the seared chicken back into the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

4. Make the Spinners

In a bowl, mix flour, salt, and water into a stiff dough. Roll into long, thin dumplings between your palms. Add them gently into the soup.

5. Finish Cooking

Simmer until the chicken is tender, potatoes are soft, and spinners are cooked through (20–25 minutes). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

6. Serve + Enjoy

Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley. Serve with crackers or crusty bread for a true Jamaican touch.

Tips for the Best Soup

Sear first – browning the chicken develops rich flavor.
Layer seasonings – season the chicken, then the veggies, then the broth for depth.
Simmer low + slow – patience brings the flavors together.

Add spice carefully – scotch bonnet is fiery; start with less if you prefer milder heat.
Make it gluten-free – use GF flour for dumplings.

Storage + Reheating

Refrigerate – store in an airtight container for 2–3 days.

Freeze – keep in freezer for 4–6 months.
Reheat – warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of stock or water to loosen the broth if it thickens.

Variations

Slow Cooker Method – sauté aromatics first, then transfer everything into the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours.

Vegan Option – skip chicken + bone broth and use veggie stock with extra root veggies.
Extra Hearty – add yams, cassava, or green bananas for more Jamaican “ground provision.”

Final Thoughts

This Nourishing Jamaican Chicken Soup is more than just a recipe—it’s a tradition. With tender chicken, vibrant veggies, bold spices, and comforting spinners, every spoonful feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re honoring Jamaican roots or simply craving a hearty soup, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your home.