Name: Authentic Nigerian Chicken Stew: Flavorful & Easy Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: nigerian
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (bone-in for best flavor); 6 fresh tomatoes; 2 red bell peppers; 2 Scotch bonnet peppers (adjust to taste); 2 large onions (1 blended, 1 chopped); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1-inch ginger, grated; 1/2 cup vegetable or palm oil; 2 chicken bouillon cubes; 1 tsp thyme; 1 tsp curry powder; 2 bay leaves; 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste); 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 cup water or chicken broth

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nigerian Chicken Stew is a rich, deeply flavored tomato-based dish that brings warmth and comfort to every bite. This staple of Nigerian cuisine is made with a combination of fresh tomatoes, red bell peppers, onions, and well-seasoned chicken, all simmered to perfection in a deliciously spiced sauce. Whether you enjoy it with rice, bread, or yams, this stew is a must-try for those who love bold flavors and hearty meals.

Ingredients

Chicken (bone-in for the best flavor)
Fresh tomatoes
Red bell peppers
Scotch bonnet peppers
Onions
Garlic
Ginger
Vegetable or palm oil
Chicken bouillon cubes
Thyme
Curry powder
Bay leaves
Salt
Black pepper
Water or chicken broth

Directions

Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and cut the chicken into pieces. Blend the fresh tomatoes, red bell peppers, Scotch bonnet peppers, and one onion until smooth. Set aside.
Season the Chicken: In a bowl, season the chicken with salt, black pepper, thyme, curry powder, and a crushed bouillon cube. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Parboil and Fry the Chicken: In a pot, add the seasoned chicken and a bit of water. Cook until the chicken is tender. Remove the chicken and fry in vegetable or palm oil until golden brown. Set aside.
Prepare the Stew Base: In the same oil used for frying, sauté chopped onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger until fragrant.
Simmer the Tomato Sauce: Pour the blended tomato mixture into the pot and cook until the excess moisture evaporates and the oil begins to separate from the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Add Seasonings: Stir in more curry powder, thyme, bay leaves, and another bouillon cube. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the fried chicken into the pot and mix well. Pour in chicken broth or water and allow the stew to simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, ensuring the flavors meld together.
Final Adjustments: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remove from heat and let it rest before serving.

Variations

Healthier Version: Use grilled or boiled chicken instead of frying to reduce oil content.
Spicier Stew: Add extra Scotch bonnet peppers for a more fiery kick.
Richer Flavor: Use palm oil instead of vegetable oil for an authentic traditional taste.
Seafood Twist: Swap chicken for fish or shrimp for a delicious seafood variation.
Vegetable Boost: Add chopped carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to restore consistency. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

How can I make the stew less spicy?

Reduce the number of Scotch bonnet peppers or substitute with milder peppers like bell peppers.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?

Yes, but fresh tomatoes provide the best flavor. If using canned, drain excess liquid to avoid a watery stew.

What can I serve with Nigerian Chicken Stew?

It pairs well with white rice, jollof rice, boiled yams, plantains, or even bread.

Do I have to fry the chicken?

No, you can grill, bake, or boil the chicken for a healthier option.

How do I thicken the stew?

Allow the stew to simmer longer so the sauce reduces, or add a small amount of tomato paste for extra thickness.

Can I make this stew vegetarian?

Yes, replace chicken with mushrooms, tofu, or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Why does my stew taste sour?

Fresh tomatoes can be acidic. Cooking them thoroughly and adding a pinch of sugar can help balance the flavor.

Can I cook this stew in advance?

Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen over time.

What type of oil should I use?

Traditional Nigerian Chicken Stew is made with palm oil, but you can also use vegetable oil or canola oil.

How can I make the stew more flavorful?

Marinate the chicken well, use homemade chicken broth, and allow the stew to simmer for a longer period.

Conclusion

Nigerian Chicken Stew is a flavorful, comforting, and versatile dish that brings people together. Whether you prefer it mild or spicy, with fried or grilled chicken, this stew is guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds. Try it today and enjoy the rich flavors of Nigerian cuisine!

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