Nigerian Chicken Stew is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich, spicy tomato sauce. The stew is packed with tomatoes, peppers, onions, and a blend of warm spices that give it a beautiful, deep color and a taste that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s a classic dish that’s loved across Nigeria and beyond, known for its bold flavors and satisfying warmth.
I love making Nigerian Chicken Stew because it fills the whole kitchen with an amazing aroma that makes everyone hungry right away. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easy it is to adjust the spice level to suit everyone’s taste, whether you like it mild or fiery. Plus, using fresh tomatoes and peppers really makes the flavor pop, and the chicken gets so tender, it practically melts in your mouth.
My go-to way to enjoy this stew is serving it over steaming white rice, which soaks up all the delicious sauce perfectly. It also pairs well with boiled yams or plantains if you want to try something different. Whenever I make this stew, it feels like sharing a little bit of Nigerian tradition, and it always brings people around the table for a warm, happy meal together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Dark meat like drumsticks or thighs works best because it stays juicy and flavorful. You can use breast meat if you want it leaner but watch for drying out.
Tomatoes and Peppers: Fresh ripe tomatoes and red bell peppers give the stew its rich color and sweetness. If fresh aren’t available, canned tomatoes and jarred roasted red peppers can work.
Scotch Bonnet Peppers: These give the stew its heat and authentic flavor. For less spice, reduce the amount or swap with milder chili peppers like jalapeños.
Onion, Garlic, Ginger: Combining these adds depth and warmth. Using fresh ginger is key, but you may substitute with ground ginger if needed.
Oil: You can use vegetable oil or try palm oil for a more traditional flavor and deeper color in the stew.
Seasoning Cubes: These provide umami and saltiness. If you prefer, use vegetable or chicken broth powder as a substitute.
How Do You Get Rich Flavor and Perfectly Tender Chicken in Nigerian Stew?
The magic lies in frying the chicken first and slowly simmering it in the sauce.
- Start by seasoning and frying the chicken pieces until golden. This seals in juices and adds flavor.
- Cook the blended tomato and pepper mix until the sauce thickens and the oil separates—this means it’s well cooked and flavors have concentrated.
- Return the chicken to simmer gently in the sauce with a little water. This slow cook makes the chicken tender and helps it soak up all the tasty flavors.
- Use medium to low heat and cover the pot to keep moisture in without making the dish watery.
Patience during simmering is key. This slow cooking step is what makes Nigerian Chicken Stew extra satisfying!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or deep pan – perfect for frying the chicken and simmering the stew without spilling.
- Blender or food processor – makes quick work of turning fresh tomatoes and peppers into a smooth sauce.
- Sharp knife – for chopping onions, peppers, and ginger easily and safely.
- Wooden spoon – great for stirring the stew without scratching your pot.
- Measuring spoons – help you add the right amount of spices and seasoning cubes.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for turkey or beef chunks for a different protein twist; turkey stays juicy and beef adds richness.
- Add diced carrots or green beans towards the end for some extra veggies and texture.
- Use smoked paprika in place of curry powder for a subtle smoky flavor if you want to change the spice profile.
- Stir in coconut milk at the end to soften the heat and add a creamy texture, especially if you want a milder stew.
How to Make Nigerian Chicken Stew?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or preferred cuts)
- Salt to taste
- 1 seasoning cube (crushed)
For the Stew Sauce:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes
- 2 large red bell peppers (or substitute)
- 2-3 scotch bonnet peppers (adjust to taste)
- 1 large onion (divided: half for sauce, half for frying)
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 inch fresh ginger piece
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or palm oil
- 2 teaspoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 seasoning cube (for sauce)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Water as needed
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes for preparation, including chopping and blending the ingredients. Frying the chicken and cooking the stew sauce takes around 40 minutes, with an additional 25-30 minutes to simmer the chicken in the sauce until tender. All in, you should set aside roughly 1 to 1 hour and 15 minutes for a flavorful Nigerian Chicken Stew.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Rinse your chicken pieces well and pat them dry. Season lightly with salt and crush one seasoning cube over them. Set them aside while you prepare the stew.
2. Blend the Vegetables:
Chop the tomatoes, red bell peppers, scotch bonnet peppers, half the onion, garlic, and ginger roughly. Blend them all together into a smooth paste using a blender or food processor.
3. Fry the Chicken:
Heat half of your oil in a large pot or deep pan over medium heat. Carefully fry the chicken pieces, turning them until golden and cooked on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
4. Cook the Stew Base:
In the same pot, add the remaining oil. Sauté the remaining chopped onion until translucent. Add the tomato paste and fry gently for 2 minutes to bring out deep flavors.
5. Add the Blended Vegetables:
Pour the blended tomato and pepper mixture into the pot. Stir occasionally and let it cook for 10-15 minutes on medium heat, until the sauce thickens and oils start to rise to the top.
6. Season the Sauce:
Add the curry powder, dried thyme, the second seasoning cube, and salt to taste. Mix everything well.
7. Simmer the Chicken:
Return the fried chicken into the pot, coating it well with the sauce. If needed, add a little water to cover half the chicken. Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is tender and flavorful.
8. Finish and Garnish:
Check the seasoning and adjust if necessary. If you like, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro over the stew for a fresh touch.
9. Serve:
Serve your delicious Nigerian Chicken Stew hot, alongside steamed white rice, boiled yams, or fried plantains. Enjoy the rich, spicy flavors with family or friends!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in Nigerian Chicken Stew?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and better texture.
How Can I Make the Stew Less Spicy?
To reduce the heat, use fewer scotch bonnet peppers or substitute them with milder peppers like bell peppers or jalapeños. You can also remove the seeds and membranes to lessen the spiciness.
Can I Prepare Nigerian Chicken Stew in Advance?
Absolutely! The stew often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store the cooled stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the stew in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.