Chicken Jollof

Chicken Jollof is a vibrant and flavorful West African rice dish, characterized by its rich tomato base and aromatic spices. This Halal version offers a deliciously satisfying meal that balances spices and the comforting essence of stewed chicken.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 1 cup (200g)
• Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless) - 300g
• Tomatoes (fresh, chopped) - 1 cup (150g)
• Tomato paste - 2 tablespoons
• Onion (medium, chopped) - 1
• Garlic (minced) - 2 cloves
• Ginger (grated) - 1 teaspoon
• Bell pepper (red, chopped) - 1
• Chicken broth - 2 cups (500ml)
• Vegetable oil - 3 tablespoons
• Bay leaf - 1
• Thyme (dried) - 1 teaspoon
• Curry powder - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Green peas (frozen) - 1/2 cup (75g)

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then soak in water for 20 minutes.
2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, chopped bell pepper, thyme, curry powder, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mixture thickens and darkens.
5. Add the chicken thighs to the pot, stirring to coat them in the tomato mixture. Cook for 5 minutes to brown the chicken slightly.
6. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. Add the soaked rice to the pot, stirring well to combine.
8. Place the chicken thighs back on top of the rice, cover, and cook on low heat for 20 minutes until rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
9. In the last 5 minutes, add the frozen green peas on top without stirring, cover, and let steam.
10. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork, serve hot, and enjoy your Chicken Jollof.

Nutrition

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 25 g
• Carbs: 65 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 70 mg
• Total Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Provides a good source of protein from chicken, essential for muscle repair.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals from tomatoes and bell peppers, which support overall health.

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