Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Spicy Nigerian Chicken Stew | A Bold, Flavor-Packed West African Classic


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Sarah
  • Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Halal

Description

A bold, flavorful Nigerian chicken stew made with blended peppers, tomatoes, onions, and spices, simmered until the chicken is tender and the sauce is rich and aromatic.


Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken pieces (drumsticks or thighs)
  • 4 large tomatoes
  • 2 red bell peppers
  • 2 habanero or Scotch bonnet peppers
  • 1 large onion, divided
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1-inch piece of ginger
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 12 bouillon cubes
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 cup chicken broth or water


Instructions

  1. Season the chicken with salt, curry powder, thyme, and half of the chopped onion. Allow to marinate for at least 20 minutes.
  2. Blend tomatoes, bell peppers, habanero peppers, garlic, ginger, and the remaining onion into a smooth mixture.
  3. In a pot, heat the vegetable oil and sauté tomato paste for 2 minutes to remove its acidity.
  4. Pour in the blended pepper mixture and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens and reduces.
  5. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and stir to coat them in the sauce.
  6. Pour in chicken broth or water and add bouillon cubes. Simmer on medium heat for 30–40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the stew thickens.
  7. Adjust seasoning with salt as needed and continue simmering until the oil rises to the top.
  8. Serve hot with rice, yams, plantains, or your preferred side.

Notes

  • Adjust the number of Scotch bonnet peppers based on your spice tolerance.
  • Frying the pepper mixture longer intensifies the flavor.
  • Use palm oil instead of vegetable oil for a deeper, traditional taste.
  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Cook Time: 45 mins
  • Category: Stew
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Nigerian