Name: Savory Nigerian Chicken Stew Recipe for Comforting Flavor
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 kg Chicken (bone-in preferred) (Boneless is a quicker alternative.); 1 tsp Salt (Adjust to taste.); 1 tsp Black Pepper (Adds subtle heat.); 1 tsp Paprika (For color and mild flavor.); 1 tsp Curry Powder (Or substitute with garam masala.); 1 tsp Thyme (Fresh or dried works well.); 1 medium Onion (Yellow onion preferred.); 2-3 tbsp Vegetable Oil (Olive oil or palm oil can be used.); 4 medium Roma Tomatoes (Canned crushed tomatoes work too.); 1 medium Red Bell Pepper (Contributes sweetness.); 1 small Small Red Onion (Intensifies flavor.); 1-2 whole Scotch Bonnet Peppers (Substitute with habanero or omit.); 2 tbsp Tomato Paste (Essential for sauce consistency.); 1 tsp Garlic Powder (Fresh garlic can be used.); 1 tsp Ginger Powder (Fresh ginger is also an option.); 1 cube Bouillon Cube (Homemade stock can replace.); 2 tbsp Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Cilantro) (Enhances freshness.); to taste Scallions (Optional for garnish.); to taste Lime Juice (Optional for brightness.)

As the tantalizing aroma of spices wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel like I’ve been transported straight to the vibrant streets of Nigeria. This Nigerian Chicken Stew Recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of the bold, comforting flavors that define West African cuisine. With succulent chicken simmered in a rich tomato and pepper sauce, it’s the perfect remedy for those inevitable dinner dilemmas. Not only does it come together in a snap, but it also transforms any meal into a delightful gathering—ideal for sharing with loved ones over fluffy rice or sweet fried plantains. Have you ever experienced a dish that feels like a warm hug? This stew is just that and more!

Why Is Nigerian Chicken Stew So Special?

Comforting, rich flavors: This stew creates a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for cozy family dinners.

Easy to adapt: You can modify the spice level or swap proteins, making it versatile for everyone.

Quick and simple: With just a few steps, you’ll have a sensational meal in no time!

Perfect for sharing: Serve this delightful dish with rice or fried plantains for memorable occasions.

Cultural delight: Experience the heart of West African cuisine and bring a taste of Nigeria to your table!

To add even more variety, check out my recipe for Honey Bourbon Chicken or explore tasty alternatives like Bang Bang Chicken.

Nigerian Chicken Stew Ingredients

For the Chicken

Chicken – Use bone-in for richer flavor; boneless is a quicker alternative.

For the Seasoning

Salt – Enhances overall flavor; feel free to adjust to your taste.
Black Pepper – Adds a subtle touch of heat.
Paprika – Provides beautiful color and mild flavor.
Curry Powder – Infuses warmth; substitute with garam masala for a new twist.
Thyme – Adds herby notes; both fresh and dried work well.
Onion – Balances sweetness and depth; yellow onions are preferred.

For the Sauce

Vegetable Oil – Ideal for frying; olive oil or palm oil can be used for traditional taste.
Roma Tomatoes – Creates the sauce base; canned crushed tomatoes work in a pinch.
Red Bell Pepper – Contributes sweetness and vibrant color.
Small Red Onion – Intensifies the flavor of the sauce.
Scotch Bonnet Peppers – Bring the heat; substitute with habanero peppers or omit for less spice.
Tomato Paste – Deepens flavor; essential for sauce consistency.
Garlic Powder – Boosts savory notes; fresh garlic can be used instead.
Ginger Powder – Adds warmth; fresh ginger is also a great option.
Bouillon Cube – Delivers umami flavor; homemade stock can replace for lower sodium.

For the Garnish

Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Cilantro) – Elevate freshness in your dish.
Optional – Scallions for garnish or a squeeze of lime juice for brightness.

This Nigerian Chicken Stew Recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your home, evoking flavors that warm both the heart and the soul.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nigerian Chicken Stew Recipe

Step 1: Marinate Chicken
In a large bowl, combine chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, paprika, curry powder, thyme, and chopped onion. Mix thoroughly to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with spices. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature; this step enhances the flavors and ensures a juicy stew.

Step 2: Sear Chicken
Heat about 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the marinated chicken pieces, browning them for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, reserving the oil.

Step 3: Blend Sauce Ingredients
In a blender, combine the Roma tomatoes, red bell pepper, small red onion, and scotch bonnet peppers. Blend until smooth, creating a vibrant sauce. This mixture will be the base of your Nigerian Chicken Stew, delivering rich, bold flavors that infuse into the chicken as it cooks. Set the blended sauce aside for the next step.

Step 4: Cook Sauce Base
In the same skillet with the reserved oil, add the tomato paste and fry for about 2 minutes over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Then, pour in the blended tomato mixture, reducing the heat to low. Simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to deepen; it should bubble gently and become aromatic.

Step 5: Season Sauce
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in garlic powder, ginger powder, crumbled bouillon cube, and an additional pinch of salt to taste. Mix well to combine all the spices, creating a savory foundation for your Nigerian Chicken Stew. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring all flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Simmer Chicken
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, ensuring each piece is well coated in the sauce. Cover the skillet and let the stew simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes, occasionally basting the chicken with the sauce. This step allows the chicken to absorb the flavorful sauce, resulting in tender, juicy meat.

Step 7: Finish and Serve
Once the chicken is tender and the sauce is thickened, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your Nigerian Chicken Stew with freshly chopped herbs such as parsley or cilantro for added flavor and color. Serve hot alongside fluffy rice, sweet fried plantains, or yams for a comforting family meal.

Expert Tips for Nigerian Chicken Stew Recipe

Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to achieve a deeper flavor profile and tenderness.
Control the Heat: Start with one scotch bonnet pepper to gauge spice levels, adding more gradually to customize your Nigerian Chicken Stew.
Sear Well: Ensure the chicken is browned nicely for a rich flavor base in your stew—don’t rush this step!
Thicken the Sauce: For a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered to reduce excess liquid and intensify flavors.
Adjust Ingredients: Feel free to swap ingredients based on availability or preference, like using garam masala instead of curry powder.

Nigerian Chicken Stew Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delightful tweaks!

Protein Swap: Use beef or fish instead of chicken for a new, savory experience; adjust cooking times accordingly for tenderness.
Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas, using vegetable broth instead of bouillon for a plant-based option.
Spice it Up: Add extra scotch bonnet peppers for a fiery kick or reduce the peppers for a milder version—tailor it to your taste!
Fresh Herbs: Experiment with herbs like basil or mint, bringing in unexpected fresh flavors to complement the richness of the stew.
Coconut Cream: Stir in coconut cream for a tropical twist, balancing the savory notes with a hint of sweetness and richness.
Alternate Oils: Swap vegetable oil for olive or palm oil for varied flavor profiles; palm oil adds an authentic West African touch.
Thrilling Sides: Serve with quinoa or a refreshing side salad for a lighter meal, or pair with traditionally fried yams for authenticity.

For more exciting takes on chicken dishes, why not try my beloved Grilled Chicken Bacon or enjoy a deliciously rich Lemon Chicken Orzo? Every alternative provides the warmth and comfort you seek while keeping mealtime exciting!

Make Ahead Options

Nigerian Chicken Stew is a fantastic meal prep option! You can marinate the chicken with spices and chop your veggies up to 24 hours in advance, making dinner a breeze when you’re busy during the week. Simply refrigerate the marinated chicken and chopped vegetables in an airtight container. You can also blend the sauce ingredients ahead of time and store it for up to 3 days—just keep it in a sealed container in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy your stew, simply sear the chicken, cook the sauce, and let it simmer as detailed in the recipe. This way, you’ll savor every bite without the hassle on a busy evening, all while enjoying home-cooked perfection!

Storage Tips for Nigerian Chicken Stew

Fridge: Cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through for best flavor.

Freezer: This Nigerian Chicken Stew freezes well for up to 3 months. Pour into a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion, and label the date.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or in the microwave. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and enjoy the rich, bold flavors!

What to Serve with Nigerian Chicken Stew

The perfect sides can elevate your Nigerian Chicken Stew into a magnificent feast, inviting warmth and joy with every bite.

Fluffy Rice: A staple pairing, the rice absorbs the rich sauce, providing a neutral base that balances the bold flavors of the stew.
Sweet Fried Plantains: Their caramelized sweetness beautifully contrasts with the spiciness of the stew, creating a delightful harmony on your plate.
Boiled Yams: Soft and comforting, yams add a hearty, starchy element that complements the rich and vibrant sauce.
Steamed Vegetables: Freshly steamed greens like spinach or kale introduce a pop of color and nutrition while lightening the meal’s richness.
Nigerian Jollof Rice: For a more robust feast, serve your stew atop this spiced rice dish, adding layers of flavor with its smoky undertones and rich tomato base.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side, the crispness of cucumbers drizzled with lime juice brightens the meal, adding a zesty contrast to the hearty stew.
Garlic Bread: For a unique twist, serve some warm garlic bread to soak up the sauce, making every bite utterly satisfying.
Chilled Wine or Zobo Drink: Pair with a glass of lightly chilled white wine or a sweet, refreshing zobo drink infused with hibiscus, perfectly complementing the dish’s boldness.

With these creative pairings, your delicious Nigerian Chicken Stew will surely be a hit at your next gathering!

Nigerian Chicken Stew Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using bone-in chicken for a richer flavor, as it adds depth to the stew. However, if you’re short on time, boneless chicken is a great option, allowing for quicker cooking while still being delicious.

How should I store leftovers from the Nigerian Chicken Stew?
To maintain its wonderful flavors, cool the stew completely and transfer it into an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through, and it’ll taste as good as new!

Can I freeze Nigerian Chicken Stew?
Yes, indeed! This stew freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Pour the cooled stew into a freezer-safe container, ensuring you leave a bit of space at the top for expansion. Don’t forget to label it with the date! When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove while stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

What if my stew is too spicy?
Very! If you find the stew too spicy, a quick solution is to add a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt as a topping when serving; this helps to balance out the heat. Alternatively, you can incorporate a little more tomato sauce or coconut milk to dilute the spice level in the stew itself.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This Nigerian Chicken Stew is halal-friendly, but always check the specific brands of ingredients like bouillon squares to ensure they meet dietary restrictions. If you or someone in your family has allergies, such as to tomatoes, feel free to substitute them with pureed pumpkin for a different flavor while still maintaining a comforting texture.

What’s the best way to control the spice level?
To customize the heat to your liking, start with one scotch bonnet pepper when making the sauce, and taste as you go. You can always add more if desired! If you’re looking to keep it mild, feel free to omit the pepper entirely or use a less spicy alternative, such as bell peppers, for flavor without the heat.