Embark on a culinary adventure with Nigerian Jollof Rice with Chicken, a dish that sings with vibrant flavors and colors. This iconic West African meal combines fragrant rice spiced with tomatoes, onions, and peppers, coupled with succulent pieces of chicken, creating a celebration of taste in every bite.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 6
- Serving Size: 1 generous bowl per person
Nutritional Profile (per serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fiber: 3 g
Ingredients
- Chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks): 1.2 kg (2.6 lbs)
- Long grain parboiled rice: 500 g (1.1 lbs)
- Tomatoes, blended: 4 large
- Red bell peppers, blended: 2
- Onions, chopped: 2 large
- Garlic cloves, minced: 4
- Scotch bonnet peppers, blended: 1-2 (depending on heat preference)
- Tomato paste: 70 g (2.5 oz)
- Chicken stock: 1 liter (34 oz)
- Thyme: 1 tsp
- Curry powder: 2 tsp
- Bay leaves: 2
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Vegetable oil: For cooking
Method of Preparation
- Cook the Chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, and curry powder. In a pot, brown the chicken pieces in oil. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic. Add blended tomatoes, peppers, scotch bonnet, and tomato paste. Cook until the sauce thickens.
- Prepare the Rice: Wash the rice until water runs clear. Drain.
- Combine and Cook: Add the chicken, rice, thyme, bay leaves, and stock to the sauce. Stir gently, cover, and cook on low heat until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Serve: Discard bay leaves and serve hot.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Rice Preparation: Rinsing the rice helps to remove excess starch, preventing stickiness.
- Balanced Heat: Adjust the amount of scotch bonnet pepper to control the spiciness.
- Low and Slow Cooking: Cook the rice on low heat to ensure even cooking without burning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, but cooking times may vary. Basmati is a good alternative.
What if I don't have scotch bonnet peppers?
Substitute with habanero or any hot pepper available.
Can I add vegetables to the Jollof Rice?
Absolutely! Carrots and peas make great additions.