Classic Nigerian Chicken Stew
Ingredients
- Roasted Pepper Base
- 3 red bell peppers
- 4 medium tomatoes
- 2 hot chili peppers adjust to taste
- 1 medium onion halved
- 5 garlic cloves
- 1- inch piece fresh ginger
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for roasting
- Chicken
- 8 –10 chicken drumsticks
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup vegetable oil for frying
- 2 tablespoons diced onion
- Stew
- 1 medium onion diced
- 1½ –2 cups chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder or 2 bouillon cubes
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the bell peppers, tomatoes, onion halves, and garlic on a baking sheet. Brush lightly with oil and roast for about 30 minutes, until softened and lightly charred.
- Transfer the roasted vegetables to a blender, add the ginger, and blend until smooth. Set aside.
- Season the chicken drumsticks with thyme, paprika, curry powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large, deep pan over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of diced onion and sauté briefly until fragrant.
- Add the chicken and fry until golden brown on both sides, about 10 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the remaining diced onion and cook until translucent.
- Stir in the blended pepper mixture and bay leaves. Cook for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the chicken stock, curry powder, rosemary, paprika, and bouillon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Return the fried chicken to the pan, reduce heat, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the stew is rich and thick.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Adjust consistency with a little extra stock or water if needed.
Notes
This traditional Nigerian chicken stew is rich, bold, and comforting, made with a roasted pepper and tomato base for deep flavor. It’s a popular West African recipe perfect for family dinners and meal prep, and it pairs beautifully with rice or bread.