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Spicy Nigerian Chicken Stew

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Spicy Nigerian Chicken Stew is a rich, bold, and flavorful dish made with blended tomatoes, peppers, and onions simmered with seasoned chicken. This traditional West African recipe is perfect with rice, plantains, or bread and delivers the heat and depth of authentic Nigerian cooking.

Ingredients

  • 2–3 lbs chicken (bone-in preferred)
  • 4 red bell peppers
  • 2–3 Scotch bonnet peppers (or habanero, to taste)
  • 4 Roma tomatoes
  • 2 large onions (1 for blending, 1 for cooking)
  • 3–4 cloves garlic
  • 1-inch piece fresh ginger
  • 2 chicken bouillon cubes or seasoning powder
  • 1 tsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt to taste
  • ¼–⅓ cup vegetable oil or palm oil
  • ½–1 cup water or chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Season chicken with salt, curry powder, thyme, and crushed bouillon cubes. Let marinate for 30 minutes.
  2. Heat oil in a large pot. Sear chicken until browned, then remove and set aside.
  3. Blend red bell peppers, Scotch bonnets, tomatoes, 1 onion, garlic, and ginger into a smooth mixture.
  4. In the same pot, pour in the blended mixture and cook over medium heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring often, until thick and reduced.
  5. Add the seared chicken back into the pot. Stir in bay leaves and additional seasoning if needed.
  6. Cover and simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and infused with flavor.
  7. Adjust salt and spice to taste before serving.

Notes

  • For less heat, reduce the Scotch bonnet or remove the seeds.
  • Bone-in chicken adds more flavor, but boneless works too with reduced cook time.
  • Add crayfish or dried fish for a smoky, traditional taste.
  • Use palm oil for a more authentic, rich flavor and deep red color.
  • This stew tastes even better the next day—ideal for make-ahead meals.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/spicy-nigerian-chicken-stew/