why make this recipe

Nigerian Chicken Stew is a tasty and hearty dish that is loved by many. It’s perfect for family dinners and gatherings. This stew is not only flavorful and comforting, but it also allows you to explore the rich flavors of Nigerian cuisine. It’s easy to make, and you can enjoy it with rice, plantains, or even cauliflower rice. Plus, it’s a great way to use simple ingredients to create a delicious meal.

how to make Nigerian Chicken Stew

Ingredients:

2.5 lbs bone-in chicken (thighs or drumsticks), cleaned
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon curry powder
1 teaspoon thyme
1 onion, chopped
1/4 cup vegetable oil
4 large Roma tomatoes
1 large red bell pepper
1 small red onion
2 scotch bonnet peppers (or 1 for less heat)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ginger powder
1 bouillon cube
Salt to taste

Directions:

Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, paprika, curry powder, thyme, and chopped onions. Let it marinate for 30 minutes.
In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken pieces until browned on both sides. Set aside.
Blend the tomatoes, bell pepper, small red onion, and scotch bonnet peppers into a smooth mixture.
In the same skillet, fry the tomato paste for 2 minutes to enhance the flavors. Then add the blended sauce, reduce the heat to medium, and cook for 10 minutes.
Add garlic powder, ginger powder, bouillon cube, and salt. Stir well to combine.
Return the browned chicken to the pot and let it simmer on low for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the stew has thickened.
Serve hot with white rice, fried plantains, or cauliflower rice.

how to serve Nigerian Chicken Stew

Nigerian Chicken Stew is best served hot. You can enjoy it alongside fluffy white rice, sweet fried plantains, or healthy cauliflower rice. Each of these sides complements the rich and spicy stew perfectly. You can also garnish with fresh herbs, if you like, for an extra touch.

how to store Nigerian Chicken Stew

To store leftovers, let the stew cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or microwave until heated through.

tips to make Nigerian Chicken Stew

For a richer flavor, you can use a mix of different chicken parts, such as wings and thighs.
If you prefer a less spicy stew, reduce the number of scotch bonnet peppers or remove the seeds before blending.
Don’t rush the marinating process; letting the chicken sit with the spices enhances the flavor significantly.
Stir the stew occasionally while it simmers to prevent sticking.

variation

You can easily modify this recipe by adding vegetables like carrots or green beans to the stew. If you want a different protein, feel free to use goat meat or fish instead of chicken for a unique twist on the classic dish.

FAQs

1. Can I make Nigerian Chicken Stew with boneless chicken?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken, but be aware that it may cook faster than bone-in pieces, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Is Nigerian Chicken Stew spicy?
Yes, the stew can be spicy depending on the number of scotch bonnet peppers used. You can reduce the amount for a milder taste.

3. Can I use canned tomatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute fresh tomatoes with canned ones. Just use about 2 cups of canned tomatoes and adjust the other ingredients as needed.