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Nigerian Chicken Stew Recipe

Nigerian Chicken Stew Recipe - A Taste of Comforting Home

This Nigerian Chicken Stew Recipe is a comforting dish with rich tomato and pepper sauce, aromatic spices, and tender chicken, perfect for any meal.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Nigerian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken and Seasoning
  • 2.5 lbs Chicken Boneless chicken can be used instead for quicker cooking.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper Adds warmth and a subtle kick.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika is a great substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Curry powder Characteristic of West African dishes.
  • 1 teaspoon Thyme Italian seasoning can be used in its place.
  • 1 small Chopped onion Creates the aromatic foundation.
For the Stew Base
  • 1/4 cup Vegetable oil Olive oil or coconut oil are good substitutes.
  • 2 Roma tomatoes Swap for canned tomatoes if fresh is not available.
  • 1 Red bell pepper Can be replaced with yellow or green bell peppers.
  • 2 Scotch bonnet peppers Use habanero for similar spice or omit for milder flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato paste Delivers richness and concentrated flavor.
For Additional Flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder Fresh garlic can also be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Ginger powder Replace with fresh ginger for a fresh touch.
  • 1 Bouillon cube May omit for vegetarian option.
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro For garnish.

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • large skillet
  • blender

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, paprika, curry powder, thyme, and the chopped onion. Cover and let marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and sear for 5-7 minutes on each side, then remove and set aside.
  3. In a blender, combine Roma tomatoes, red bell pepper, onion, and scotch bonnet peppers, then blend until smooth.
  4. In the same skillet, stir-fry tomato paste for 2 minutes, then add the blended tomato mixture. Let simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes.
  5. Add garlic powder, ginger powder, bouillon cube, and salt. Stir, then return chicken to the skillet.
  6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until chicken is tender.
  7. Once done, garnish with parsley or cilantro and serve with rice or plantains.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 40gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1200IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Marinate chicken longer for optimal flavor. Control heat by adjusting peppers. Simmer uncovered for a thicker sauce. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Perfect with rice or fried plantains.

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