Name: Nigerian Chicken Stew Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Nigerian
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken thighs; Salt, to taste (for chicken rub); Black pepper, to taste (for chicken rub); 3 tomatoes; 1 red bell pepper; 1 habanero pepper (use 1/2 if you prefer less heat); 1 onion (divided); 1/2 cup olive oil; 1 cup chicken stock (broth); 1 tsp bouillon powder; 1/2 tsp thyme; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp curry powder; 1/2 tsp salt

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 12 reviews

If you’ve ever wanted to dive into a rich and flavorful dish that captures the vibrant spirit of West African cuisine, then the Nigerian Chicken Stew Recipe is the perfect place to start. This stew brings together tender chicken simmered in a luscious, aromatic tomato and pepper sauce that’s bursting with warmth and spice. It’s a dish that’s simultaneously comforting and exciting, with layers of flavor that develop beautifully as it cooks. Whether you’re an experienced cook or trying something new, this recipe will have you craving every last bite and sharing it with everyone you love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white plate with three red tomatoes, one small orange pepper, one red bell pepper, and a yellow onion at the bottom right. To the top left of the plate, there is a clear glass bowl with pieces of cooked chicken. Above the plate, there is a round clear glass bowl filled with light brown broth. To the left of the plate, there is a small white bowl filled with a bright yellow liquid. The surface under everything is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting this stew right is all about the harmony of simple, fresh ingredients that each play an essential role in crafting the stew’s bold flavor and inviting color. From the juicy tomatoes and fiery peppers to the fragrant spices and succulent chicken thighs, every component works together to deliver a dish that sings with every spoonful.

2 lbs chicken thighs: These provide juicy, tender meat that stays moist during cooking.
3 tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes give the stew its rich, tangy base and vibrant red color.
1 red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and depth without overpowering the dish.
1 habanero pepper (or 1/2 for less heat): Packs the signature spicy kick unique to Nigerian stews.
1/2 cup olive oil: Creates a silky texture and helps to brown the chicken perfectly.
1 cup chicken stock (broth): Enhances the stew’s richness and balances the tomato acidity.
1 onion: Provides a savory foundation, both sautéed and blended into the sauce.
1 tsp bouillon powder: Boosts the umami for a savory, well-rounded flavor.
1/2 tsp thyme: Adds a subtle earthy aroma that complements the spices.
1/2 tsp black pepper: Offers a gentle heat and warmth in the stew.
1/2 tsp curry powder: Infuses the stew with mild, fragrant spice notes.
1/2 tsp salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors perfectly.
Extra salt and black pepper: For rubbing on the chicken thighs before cooking, locking in flavor.

How to Make Nigerian Chicken Stew Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by washing the chicken thighs and then patting them dry to get rid of any excess moisture. Dry chicken is key to getting that beautiful golden brown outside. Next, rub each chicken piece generously with salt and black pepper. This simple seasoning forms a flavorful crust that seals the juices inside during cooking.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully add the chicken thighs and brown them on each side for about 10 minutes. This step locks in flavor and gives the meat a satisfying texture that holds up perfectly in the stew. Once browned, remove the chicken and set aside for the next stage.

Step 3: Prepare the Tomato and Pepper Base

Take your tomatoes, red bell pepper, habanero pepper, and the onion half that isn’t chopped, and blend them together until smooth. This mix is the essence of your stew’s vibrant taste and color. Meanwhile, chop the remaining half of the onion finely, as this will be sautéed separately to add depth and a hint of sweetness to the sauce.

Step 4: Sauté and Simmer the Sauce

Use the oil left in the pan to sauté the chopped onion until translucent and fragrant. Then pour in your blended tomato and pepper mix and bring it to a boil for about 5 minutes. This step cooks out the raw flavors and begins to thicken the sauce beautifully.

Step 5: Combine and Season

Add the browned chicken back into the pan along with the chicken stock, bouillon powder, black pepper, curry powder, thyme, and salt. Stir everything together and taste the sauce—adjust the salt as needed. Let the stew simmer gently for around 20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened into a rich, flavorful masterpiece.

How to Serve Nigerian Chicken Stew Recipe

The image shows a white plate with two main layers of food. On the right side, there are two thick pieces of meat covered in a rich, bright red sauce with visible small chunks of onions and a slightly textured surface. On the left side, there is a heap of fluffy, light beige rice that contrasts with the vibrant sauce. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, and in the background, a black skillet with more of the red saucy meat is partially visible. A silver fork rests on the top left corner of the image. The lighting highlights the shine on the sauce and the softness of the rice. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The Nigerian Chicken Stew Recipe is fantastic on its own, but adding a few garnishes really elevates the experience. Fresh chopped cilantro or parsley brings a burst of color and brightness, while a sprinkle of sliced onions or fresh chili can add extra texture and a hint of freshness. A little squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can also brighten the rich tomato base.

Side Dishes

This stew pairs perfectly with traditional Nigerian staples like white rice, jollof rice, or pounded yam. You could also enjoy it alongside soft boiled yams, plantains, or even simple mashed potatoes to let the luscious, spicy sauce shine. The creamy starches that accompany the stew soak up the sauce brilliantly and make every bite a comforting delight.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting a dinner or just want to impress, serve the stew in a beautiful clay pot for a rustic touch or a bright colorful bowl that complements the red hues of the sauce. Layering the stew over a dome of fluffy rice or arranging the chicken chunks neatly and topping with chopped greens makes the dish look as tempting as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Nigerian Chicken Stew Recipe keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. This means you can enjoy this hearty meal again without any hassle. The flavors often develop even more overnight, making for an even tastier second serving.

Freezing

If you want to save the stew for longer, it freezes beautifully. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool the stew to room temperature before freezing to preserve its texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat the stew gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen it up. Reheated stew tastes just as delicious and perfect for busy weeknights or quick lunches.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of chicken in this Nigerian Chicken Stew Recipe?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs are great for their juiciness and flavor, you can use chicken drumsticks or breasts if you prefer. Just be mindful of cooking times, as breasts cook faster and can dry out if overcooked.

How spicy is the stew with one habanero pepper?

Using a whole habanero will give the stew a noticeable kick, but the heat is balanced by the other ingredients. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with half a habanero or remove the seeds to reduce the intensity without sacrificing flavor.

Can I make this stew vegetarian or vegan?

While the traditional Nigerian Chicken Stew Recipe centers around chicken, you can substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant, and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. Keep in mind that the cooking time and flavor profile will change a bit.

Do I need to peel the tomatoes before blending?

Peeling the tomatoes is not necessary for this stew as the cooking process softens the tomato skins. Blending them whole helps retain nutrients and a beautiful texture in the sauce.

What are some good alternatives to olive oil for this stew?

Traditional Nigerian stews often use palm oil, which adds a distinctive flavor and vibrant color. If you want a different taste, you can use vegetable oil or sunflower oil, but olive oil is a great choice for a lighter flavor and healthier fat profile.

Final Thoughts

Making this Nigerian Chicken Stew Recipe is a wonderful way to bring a taste of Nigeria to your kitchen while enjoying a deeply flavorful, comforting meal. It’s straightforward to prepare, packed with personality, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the spice levels and sides—this stew is truly a celebration of vibrant flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Give it a try and enjoy the magic it brings to your table!

Nigerian Chicken Stew Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need