Nigerian Chicken Stew

Nigerian Chicken Stew is a delicious, tomato-based dish that is a staple in many Nigerian homes. Made with fried or grilled chicken, fresh tomatoes, and aromatic spices, this stew is rich in flavor and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. In this guide, we'll walk you through how to prepare this delightful dish, as well as answer some common questions about cooking and storing it.

Ingredients Used

To make a flavorful Nigerian Chicken Stew, you will need:

For the Chicken:

• 1 whole chicken (cut into pieces)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon seasoning cubes/powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder
• 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying or grilling)

For the Tomato Base:

• 6 large tomatoes
• 2 red bell peppers
• 1 large onion
• 2 scotch bonnet peppers (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon seasoning cubes/powder
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon ginger (grated)

How To Make This Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Wash the chicken pieces and pat them dry.
2. Season with salt, thyme, curry powder, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, paprika, and ginger powder.
3. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
4. Fry or grill the chicken until golden brown. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Tomato Base

1. Blend tomatoes, bell peppers, scotch bonnet peppers, and onions until smooth.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a pot and add the blended tomato mixture.
3. Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the oil begins to separate (about 15-20 minutes).
4. Add tomato paste and cook for another 5 minutes.
5. Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, thyme, curry powder, nutmeg, seasoning cubes, and salt.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and mix well.

Step 3: Combine and Simmer

1. Add the fried or grilled chicken into the sauce.
2. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the flavors meld together.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!

Can I Use an Air Fryer to Brown the Chicken?

Yes! If you want a healthier alternative to frying, you can use an air fryer to brown the chicken.

How to Air Fry Chicken for Stew:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the seasoned chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
3. Air fry for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
4. Use in your Nigerian Chicken Stew as usual.

Storing and Reheating

Storing:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Heat on low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Microwave: Reheat in short intervals, stirring in between to avoid hot spots.

What Can I Eat This Recipe With?

Nigerian Chicken Stew is incredibly versatile and pairs well with:

• White rice
• Jollof rice
• Boiled or fried plantains
• Yam or sweet potatoes
• Eba, fufu, or pounded yam
• Bread for dipping

Tips and Variations

• For a Smoky Flavor: Roast the tomatoes and peppers before blending.
• For Extra Richness: Add a little coconut milk or palm oil.
• Make It Spicier: Increase the number of scotch bonnet peppers.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with mushrooms, tofu, or boiled eggs.
• Chunky Stew: Blend only half of the tomatoes and leave the rest chopped for texture.

📖 Recipe

Nigerian Chicken Stew Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (cut into pieces)
• 6 large tomatoes
• 2 red bell peppers
• 2 scotch bonnet peppers
• 1 large onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon ginger
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon seasoning cubes/powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 cups chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Season and fry/grill the chicken.
2. Blend tomatoes, peppers, and onion.
3. Cook the tomato mixture until thick.
4. Add tomato paste and seasonings.
5. Pour in chicken broth and simmer.
6. Add the chicken and cook for 15-20 minutes.
7. Serve and enjoy!

Nigerian Chicken Stew

This Nigerian Chicken Stew recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves rich, hearty stews. Whether served with rice, yam, or plantains, it is sure to be a hit at any table. Try it today and enjoy a taste of Nigeria!