10 Delicious African Chicken Recipes to Try

Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with these ten tasty African chicken recipes! Each dish showcases the rich flavors and vibrant traditions of African cuisine, ensuring that dinner is not just a meal, but a celebration. From savory stews to grilled delights, these recipes are perfect for impressing family or just enjoying a cozy night in.

Chicken with Saka Saka and Spinach

Chicken with Saka Saka and Spinach is a delightful African dish that brings together the rich flavors of chicken, spinach, and the unique taste of saka saka, which is made from cassava leaves. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packs a punch with its vibrant colors and delicious taste. The combination of tender chicken and fresh spinach creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.

This dish is a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire, offering a blend of textures and flavors that will impress your family and friends. It’s a great way to explore African cuisine while enjoying a healthy and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 1 cup cassava leaves (or substitute with kale if unavailable)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 cups cooked rice (for serving)

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, and sliced bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
4. Mix in the spinach and cassava leaves, allowing them to wilt and combine with the chicken and spices. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor. Serve hot over cooked rice.

Chicken in peanut sauce

Chicken in peanut sauce is a delightful dish from African cuisine that combines tender chicken pieces with a rich, creamy peanut sauce. The flavor is a wonderful balance of savory and nutty, making it a comforting meal that’s sure to please anyone at the dinner table. It’s also quite simple to prepare, perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs looking for a quick yet satisfying recipe.

This dish pairs beautifully with rice or fufu, allowing the sauce to shine. The combination of spices and the creamy texture of the peanut sauce create a unique culinary experience that transports you to the heart of Africa. Let’s gather the ingredients and get cooking!

Ingredients

• 500g chicken breasts, diced
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Cooked rice or fufu for serving

Instructions

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Sauté the onions until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.
2. Add the diced chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Stir in the peanut butter, chicken broth, tomato paste, soy sauce, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until the peanut butter is fully incorporated.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the chicken and sauce over cooked rice or fufu, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Chicken with mangoes and chilies

Chicken with mangoes and chilies is a delightful dish that brings together the sweetness of ripe mangoes and the zing of fresh chilies. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests, making it a great addition to your African cuisine repertoire. The combination of flavors offers a tropical twist that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

With tender chicken pieces cooked in a luscious mango sauce, this dish is a perfect balance of sweet and spicy. Serve it with fluffy rice to soak up all the delicious sauce. It’s a quick and easy recipe that showcases the vibrant flavors of African cooking.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
• 2 ripe mangoes, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2-3 fresh red chilies, chopped (adjust to taste)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• 2 cups white rice

Instructions

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and chopped chilies, stirring for another minute until fragrant.
3. Introduce the chicken thighs to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides.
4. Stir in the diced mangoes and let simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the mangoes break down into a sauce.
5. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the rice according to package instructions.
6. Once the chicken is done, serve it over a bed of rice and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Chicken with tomato and caramelized onions

Chicken with tomato and caramelized onions is a delightful African dish that brings out the rich flavors of tender chicken, sweet caramelized onions, and fresh tomatoes. The combination of these ingredients creates a savory and slightly sweet sauce that perfectly complements rice or crusty bread.

This recipe is not only simple to make but also packed with vibrant flavors that will surely impress your family and friends. It’s a comforting meal that highlights the essence of African cuisine, making it a great choice for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 3 ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they are golden brown and caramelized, about 10-15 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and paprika, stirring for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Brown the chicken on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and diced carrots. Cover and reduce the heat to low, allowing the chicken to simmer for 30-40 minutes until cooked through.
5. Adjust seasoning if needed, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with rice or bread.

Braised chicken with African spices

African-spiced braised chicken is a savory recipe that combines rich aromas and comforting flavors. With a blend of spices like paprika, black pepper, and aromatic herbs, this dish delivers a burst of flavor that will delight your taste buds. It’s relatively simple to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a meal with family or friends.

To make this chicken, you only need a few ingredients and a little patience. Marinate the chicken to soak up all those delicious spices, then slow-cook it until tender and juicy. Serve it with rice or vegetables for a complete meal reminiscent of African cuisine.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken, cut up
• 2 tablespoons of paprika
• 1 tablespoon of black pepper
• 1 tablespoon of salt
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon of cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

1. Combine the paprika, pepper, salt, thyme, cumin, chili pepper, and garlic in a bowl. Add olive oil and lemon juice to form a marinade.
2. Coat the chicken with this marinade, making sure to coat it well. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight.
3. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
4. Bake the chicken for about 1 hour, then remove the foil to brown the chicken for an additional 15 to 20 minutes.
5. Check for doneness and serve hot with vegetables or rice.

Chicken Yassa with Lemon and Onions

Chicken Yassa is a beloved dish from Senegal, known for its tangy flavor and comforting aroma. The combination of marinated chicken with zesty lemon and caramelized onions makes this recipe a delightful experience for your taste buds. It’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

This dish beautifully showcases the essence of African cuisine, balancing savory and tangy elements. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, onions, and spices, creating a moist and flavorful meal. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice for a complete and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked rice

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with lemon juice, sliced onions, garlic, mustard, black pepper, and salt. Cover and let it marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and sear the chicken until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the Onions: Stir in the reserved marinade and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Serve: Serve the chicken over a bed of cooked rice, drizzling some of the sauce from the skillet over the top.

Chicken with coconut milk and curry

Chicken with coconut milk and curry is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and vibrant aromas. The creaminess of coconut milk pairs perfectly with the warmth of the curry spices, creating a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. This recipe is a fantastic example of African cuisine, showcasing how simple ingredients can come together to create something special.

The balance of spices gives this dish a depth that is sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this poulet dish is sure to impress without demanding too much time in the kitchen. Perfect for any occasion, it brings a touch of Africa to your dining table!

Ingredients

• 500g chicken breast, diced
• 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the diced chicken to the pan, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides.
4. Sprinkle the curry powder over the chicken, stirring to coat evenly.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Adjust seasoning to taste and finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, over rice or with flatbreads.

Honey Mustard Chicken

Honey Mustard Chicken is a dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the spiciness of mustard, creating a harmony of flavors that will delight your taste buds. This recipe is simple to make and perfect for a dinner with family or friends.

In addition to its delicious taste, this dish is also very visual with its beautiful golden color. It pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables or rice, making it a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. In a bowl, mix the mustard, honey, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt and pepper.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and brush them generously with the mustard and honey mixture.
4. Bake the chicken for 25 to 30 minutes, until cooked through and lightly browned.
5. Remove from the oven and let stand for a few minutes before serving.

Chicken in rougaille sauce

Chicken in rougaille sauce is a delightful dish that highlights the vibrant flavors of African cuisine. The chicken is cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce, infused with spices that create a warm and inviting taste. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, and it’s surprisingly simple to prepare!

This recipe brings together tender chicken pieces simmered in a zesty sauce, often served with rice or potatoes to soak up all that delicious goodness. The combination of flavors ensures that each bite is satisfying and comforting, making it a must-try for lovers of poulet and African recipes.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 2 large tomatoes, diced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
4. Add the chicken thighs to the skillet, along with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the chicken in the sauce.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 30-35 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Grilled chicken with herbs and lemon

Grilled chicken with herbs and lemon is a delicious dish that brings a fresh and fragrant touch to your table. The combination of aromatic herbs and lemon gives this chicken a slightly tangy and very pleasant taste. It’s a simple recipe that appeals to all palates, perfect for a dinner with family or friends.

This dish can be prepared quickly, making it an ideal option for days when you’re short on time. With easy-to-find ingredients and a straightforward cooking method, you’ll be thrilled to serve this grilled chicken. Here’s how to make it.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 1.5 kg)
• 3 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 lemons (juice and zest)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A little fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice and zest, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a dish and pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure to coat the entire surface. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight.
3. Preheat the Grill: Before you begin cooking, preheat your grill to medium heat.
4. Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 1 hour, turning halfway through, until golden brown and the juices run clear.
5. Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before carving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.