Nigerian Chicken Stew – Simple, Flavor-Packed Dinner Tonight

Nigerian Chicken Stew is one of those dishes that instantly wraps your kitchen in warmth and comfort. It’s bold, spicy, and irresistibly flavorful — the kind of meal that makes everyone ask, “What’s cooking?” halfway down the hall. This Nigerian Chicken Stew recipe combines juicy seared chicken simmered in a rich blend of tomatoes, red bell pepper, and fiery scotch bonnets.

It’s not just dinner — it’s a full-on flavor party that’ll have you scooping every last bit of sauce off your plate. If you’ve been craving a comforting stew that tastes like home (even if you’ve never been to Nigeria), this dish is your new best friend. Whether you pair it with rice, plantains, or yams, you’re in for something special — because this stew brings a little taste of West Africa right to your dinner table.

Table of Contents

What is Nigerian Chicken Stew?

Nigerian Chicken Stew is a West African classic bursting with bold and smoky flavors. It’s made by blending fresh tomatoes, red bell peppers, onions, and hot scotch bonnet peppers into a vibrant sauce that simmers with perfectly seasoned chicken. Unlike many Western-style stews that rely on heavy cream or roux, this stew gets its richness from the slow cooking of vegetables and the depth of spices like curry powder, thyme, and paprika.

The result? A sauce that’s thick, savory, and just the right amount of spicy. Nigerian Chicken Stew is more than just food—it’s a cultural experience. It’s commonly served at family gatherings, Sunday dinners, and festive celebrations, often paired with fluffy rice or fried plantains. Each bite carries the essence of community and the joy of shared meals.

Reasons to Try Nigerian Chicken Stew

Why try Nigerian Chicken Stew? Because sometimes, you need a dish that wakes up your taste buds and makes dinner exciting again! First, it’s incredibly versatile—you can serve it with almost anything: rice, yams, or even cauliflower rice if you’re watching carbs. Second, it’s deeply nourishing with wholesome ingredients like fresh peppers, tomatoes, and protein-packed chicken.

Third, it’s a one-pot wonder, perfect for busy nights when you want big flavor without juggling five pans. And let’s not forget that heavenly aroma—garlic, curry, and tomatoes sizzling together will make your kitchen smell like a dream. Plus, if your family tends to shy away from “different” dishes, this stew is the perfect gateway to exploring new flavors without going too far from comfort food territory.

Ingredients Needed to Make Nigerian Chicken Stew

For the Chicken:

• 2.5 lbs bone-in chicken (thighs or drumsticks), cleaned
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

For the Tomato-Pepper Sauce:

• 4 large Roma tomatoes
• 1 large red bell pepper
• 1 small red onion
• 2 scotch bonnet peppers (or 1 for less heat)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• 1 bouillon cube
• Salt to taste

Instructions to Make Nigerian Chicken Stew

Cooking Nigerian Chicken Stew step by step is easier than it looks, and once you make it the first time, you’ll be hooked. This is one of those recipes where the process is just as rewarding as the final dish — fragrant, colorful, and satisfying from start to finish. Let’s walk through it together, step by step.

Step 1: Season the Chicken (The Foundation of Flavor)

This first step is where your Nigerian Chicken Stew starts to build its signature flavor. In a large bowl, combine your clean, bone-in chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, paprika, curry powder, thyme, and chopped onions. Give everything a good toss so the seasonings coat the chicken evenly. Don’t rush this part — the spices need time to mingle with the meat. For best results, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight if you can). The longer it sits, the deeper the flavor. If you’re new to seasoning proteins, check out my Caribbean Chicken and Rice — it follows a similar method and gives a perfect example of how spice layering transforms chicken from basic to brilliant.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken (Lock in the Juiciness)

Now that your chicken is perfectly seasoned, it’s time to sear. Heat a quarter cup of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, place the chicken pieces skin-side down and listen for that satisfying sizzle — that’s flavor locking in. Sear each side for 4–5 minutes, until golden brown. This step by step technique not only adds a beautiful crust but also infuses the oil with all those wonderful spices. Don’t worry if the chicken isn’t cooked through yet; it’ll finish later in the stew. Remove and set aside on a plate. (Pro tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan; sear in batches if needed.)

Step 3: Blend the Tomato-Pepper Sauce (Your Flavor Base)

Next, create the sauce that gives Nigerian Chicken Stew its vibrant red color and bold, spicy kick. In a blender, add fresh Roma tomatoes, red bell pepper, red onion, and scotch bonnet peppers. Blend until smooth and velvety. This mix forms the heart of your stew — rich, tangy, and aromatic. If you’re someone who enjoys a milder heat, use just one scotch bonnet or swap it for a milder chili. For more substitution ideas, take a peek at our Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili, where we talk about adjusting spice levels without losing flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Sauce (Let the Magic Happen)

Here’s where things start smelling incredible. Using the same pot from the chicken, reduce the heat to medium and add two tablespoons of tomato paste. Fry it for about two minutes — this deepens its flavor and removes the raw tomato taste. Next, pour in your blended sauce and stir well to combine. Let the sauce cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the sauce thickening and the oil starting to separate slightly from the edges — that’s when you know it’s ready. This slow-cooking step by step process builds a deep, caramelized flavor that gives Nigerian Chicken Stew its signature richness.

Step 5: Season the Stew (Building Layers of Flavor)

Now, add your dry seasonings to the pot — garlic powder, ginger powder, bouillon cube, and a little more salt if needed. Stir everything together so the spices blend smoothly into the tomato base. Taste your sauce as it simmers; it should be rich, slightly spicy, and savory. Adjust to your liking — a little more curry powder for warmth or a pinch of salt for balance. If you love experimenting with spice blends, you might enjoy the flavor-building techniques in my Creamy Paprika Chicken Drumsticks, where paprika and curry play beautifully together too.

Step 6: Simmer the Chicken (Bring It All Together)

Now comes the most satisfying part of this step by step process — combining everything. Carefully return your seared chicken pieces to the pot, nestling them into the thick, simmering sauce. Coat them evenly so each piece soaks up the flavor. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 25–30 minutes. Stir occasionally so the sauce doesn’t stick to the bottom. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is tender enough to fall off the bone and the sauce has reduced to a deep, rich consistency.

Step 7: Taste, Adjust, and Serve (The Final Step by Step Reward)

Before serving, taste your Nigerian Chicken Stew and make any last-minute tweaks — a pinch of salt or a dash more curry powder if needed. Once perfect, spoon it generously over fluffy white rice, fried plantains, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter twist. This is a dish that feels as good as it tastes — warm, hearty, and full of love. For another cozy dinner option, try pairing it with my Roasted Garlic Cheddar Cauliflower Soup — the mild creaminess complements the stew’s boldness beautifully.

Step by Step Takeaway:

By following this Nigerian Chicken Stew recipe step by step, you’ll not only master one of West Africa’s most beloved dishes but also gain confidence in building complex flavors in a simple, approachable way. Each stage — from marinating to simmering — plays a key role in creating that deep, rich taste. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this stew delivers comfort and excitement in every spoonful.

What to Serve with Nigerian Chicken Stew

This stew plays well with others! Traditionalists love pairing it with white rice or jollof rice, but you can also go for fried plantains or boiled yams if you’re feeling adventurous. For a lighter twist, cauliflower rice or quinoa works beautifully, soaking up that bold, tomato-rich sauce. If you’re hosting, add a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp cucumber salad to balance the heat. And if you’re craving a cozy meal, check out our Caribbean Chicken and Rice for another flavorful one-pot dish that pairs perfectly with the stew.

Key Tips for Making Nigerian Chicken Stew

1. Marinate for depth: The longer you marinate, the richer the flavor. Even an hour makes a difference.
2. Control the heat: Scotch bonnets are spicy—use just one if you prefer milder heat.
3. Use fresh ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and peppers bring that signature brightness.
4. Don’t rush the simmer: The longer it cooks, the thicker and more flavorful it becomes.
5. Taste as you go: Adjust salt and spice gradually; the flavors intensify as the stew cooks.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Nigerian Chicken Stew

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store Nigerian Chicken Stew in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually get better overnight, soaking deeper into the chicken. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to three months. When reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first—it’ll taste just as good as day one.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken? Absolutely! It’ll cook faster but may not be as flavorful as bone-in.
How spicy is it? It’s moderately spicy. Use fewer scotch bonnets to dial it down.
Can I use canned tomatoes? Yes, but fresh ones add more depth and natural sweetness.
Can I make it ahead? Definitely! This stew tastes even better the next day.

Final Thoughts

Nigerian Chicken Stew is comfort in a pot — hearty, bold, and bursting with life. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish checks every box: simple ingredients, easy steps, and flavors that transport you straight to West Africa. It’s a go-to recipe for anyone who loves rich tomato-based stews with a little kick. If you loved this, you might also enjoy our Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili or Dragon Chicken for another spicy and satisfying meal idea.

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