Sep 10 2026
RestaurantsAfrican SpicesChicken Stew Recipe

Chicken Stew Recipe

Inspired by African Spices
Time1h
Serves4

Cubed chicken marinated with vegetables cooked to perfection with chapati or angero.

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Ingredients

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Marinade & chicken

Method

Marinade & chicken

  1. 1

    Prepare and marinate

    In a bowl combine the yogurt, minced garlic, grated ginger, ground coriander, ground cumin, paprika, 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Add the cubed chicken and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours (longer will tenderize further).

Stew base

  1. 2

    Sweat aromatics

    Heat 2 tablespoons oil or ghee in a large skillet or medium pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent, about 6–8 minutes.

  2. 3

    Add peppers and carrots

    Add the diced red bell pepper and sliced carrots to the pot. Cook for 4–5 minutes until they begin to soften.

  3. 4

    Brown the marinated chicken

    Push the vegetables to the sides and add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer (work in batches if necessary). Cook, without moving, for 2 minutes to develop color, then stir to brown all sides, about 4–6 minutes total. Some marinade will mix with the vegetables — this is fine.

  4. 5

    Build the stew

    Stir in the diced tomatoes (or canned crushed tomatoes) and 1 tablespoon tomato paste. Add turmeric, fenugreek (if using), chili powder (if using), and the bay leaf. Pour in 2 cups chicken stock or water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

  5. 6

    Simmer until tender

    Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and cook for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C) and the carrots are tender. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water if the stew becomes too thick.

Spices & finishing

  1. 7

    Adjust seasoning and finish

    Remove the bay leaf. Stir in lemon juice, chopped cilantro or parsley, and taste. Add the additional 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper as needed. Simmer another 2 minutes to meld flavors.

To serve

  1. 8

    Serve warm

    Ladle the chicken stew into bowls and serve hot with chapati, angero (injera) or rice. Garnish with extra chopped cilantro if desired.

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