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Nigerian Chicken Stew Recipe

Hearty Nigerian Chicken Stew Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

This Hearty Nigerian Chicken Stew recipe offers a comforting blend of spices and flavors, perfect for family gatherings and cozy dinners. A must-try for comfort food lovers!
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Nigerian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Stew
  • 2.5 lbs Chicken Main protein; you can use bone-in for more flavor or boneless for a quicker cook.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor; adjust to your personal taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds subtle heat; substitute white pepper if you prefer a milder flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Provides color and smokiness; switch to smoked paprika for added depth.
  • 1 teaspoon Curry Powder Introduces warmth and complexity; try garam masala for a unique twist.
  • 1 teaspoon Thyme Adds an aromatic herbal note; fresh thyme is preferred but dried works too.
  • 1 Chopped Onion Contributes sweetness and depth; yellow onions are recommended, but shallots can substitute.
  • 1/4 cup Vegetable Oil Essential for frying; any neutral oil will do.
For the Sauce
  • 4 Roma Tomatoes The base of the sauce; fresh or canned will work.
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper Adds sweetness and vibrant color; green bell pepper can be a good substitute.
  • 1 Small Red Onion Intensifies flavor; feel free to use more chopped onion if desired.
  • 2 Scotch Bonnet Peppers Provides that signature heat; opt for habanero for similar spiciness or omit for a milder stew.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Deepens flavor; do not skip frying it as this enhances the taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Adds depth; you can substitute with fresh garlic if you prefer.
  • 1 teaspoon Ginger Powder Infuses warmth; fresh ginger can be used as a great alternative.
  • 1 Bouillon Cube Enhances umami flavor; vegetable bouillon works as a substitute.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Blender
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine 2.5 lbs of chicken with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of curry powder, and 1 teaspoon of thyme. Add 1 chopped onion to the mix and ensure every piece is coated well. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to infuse the flavors.
  2. Heat 1/4 cup of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated chicken pieces, ensuring they have space to brown evenly. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
  3. In a blender, combine 4 Roma tomatoes, 1 red bell pepper, 1 small red onion, and 2 scotch bonnet peppers. Blend until you achieve a smooth, vibrant puree.
  4. Return to the same skillet and, without cleaning it, add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Fry the tomato paste for 2 minutes over medium heat while stirring constantly.
  5. Add the blended tomato-pepper mixture to the skillet with the fried tomato paste. Stir well and reduce the heat to low. Allow this mixture to cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
  6. Stir in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of ginger powder, and 1 bouillon cube into the sauce mixture. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes while mixing thoroughly.
  7. Carefully return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet, nestling them within the thick sauce. Cover and let everything simmer for 25-30 minutes on low heat.
  8. Once the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is thick and rich, remove it from heat. Finish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes for better flavor. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.

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