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Jollof Rice with Chicken


  • Author: Mark Bennett
  • Total Time: 65 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A classic West African dish, Jollof rice with chicken is flavorful, vibrant, and perfect for impressing family and friends.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups long-grain parboiled rice
  • 1.5 pounds chicken (thighs or drumsticks)
  • 1 large onion, divided
  • 4 ripe tomatoes (or one 14-ounce can of diced tomatoes)
  • 1 red bell pepper
  • 1 green bell pepper
  • 2–3 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil)
  • 3 cups chicken broth (or water)
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 2 teaspoons ground thyme
  • 2 teaspoons curry powder (optional)
  • 1–2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro) for garnish

Instructions

  1. Start by preparing the chicken. Season it with salt, pepper, ginger, thyme, and curry powder. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot and brown the chicken on all sides for about 10 minutes.
  2. Remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same pot, add chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Blend tomatoes and red bell pepper into a smooth puree.
  3. Pour the tomato and bell pepper mixture back into the pot with onions. Stir in tomato paste, remaining spices, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
  4. Return the browned chicken to the pot. Add chicken broth and rinsed rice, mixing everything well.
  5. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and cover. Cook for about 30 minutes until rice is tender, checking occasionally and adding water if needed.
  6. For an optional touch, add chopped green bell pepper in the last 5 minutes of cooking. Fluff the rice with a fork, let it rest, then serve.

Notes

Rinse rice until water runs clear to prevent mushiness. Let the Jollof rice rest after cooking to improve texture.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: West African

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg