Go Back
+ servings
Nigerian Chicken Stew

Hearty Nigerian Chicken Stew That Will Warm Your Heart

This Nigerian Chicken Stew is a comforting dish that combines vibrant flavors and hearty ingredients for a satisfying meal.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Nigerian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Stew
  • 2.5 lbs Chicken Choose bone-in for depth or boneless for quicker cooking.
  • to taste Salt Essential for enhancing flavor.
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper Adds subtle heat.
  • 1 tsp Paprika Contributes color and smoky flavor.
  • 1 tsp Curry Powder Introduces aromatic profile.
  • 1 tsp Thyme Adds earthy notes.
  • 1 Onion (chopped) Can use shallots for a milder taste.
  • 1/4 cup Vegetable Oil For searing chicken.
For the Sauce
  • 4 Roma Tomatoes Fresh or canned.
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper Adds sweetness.
  • 1 Small Red Onion Mild flavor; substitute with yellow onion if needed.
  • 1-2 Scotch Bonnet Peppers Brings heat; can use habanero.
  • 2 tbsp Tomato Paste Fried first for flavor.
Flavor Enhancers
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Enhances flavor depth.
  • 1 tsp Ginger Powder Adds warmth.
  • 1 Bouillon Cube For umami boost; omit for vegetarian.
For Garnish
  • Fresh Parsley or Cilantro Optional; lime for brightness.

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • heavy-bottomed pot
  • blender

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, season the chicken with salt, black pepper, paprika, curry powder, thyme, and chopped onion. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot and brown the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. Blend Roma tomatoes, red bell pepper, small red onion, and scotch bonnet peppers until smooth.
  4. In the same pot, fry tomato paste over medium heat for 2 minutes. Add blended mixture and cook for 10 minutes until thick.
  5. Stir in garlic powder, ginger powder, a bouillon cube, and salt. Let simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
  6. Return the chicken to the pot, cover, and simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes until fully cooked.
  7. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro and serve with rice or plantains.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2.5mg

Notes

For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes and allow leftovers to sit overnight for enhanced flavors.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!