Print

Spicy Jollof Rice with Grilled Chicken

Print Recipe

This spicy Jollof rice with grilled chicken is a bold and flavorful West African dish made with parboiled rice simmered in a rich, tomato-pepper sauce and served with tender, marinated grilled chicken. A cultural classic perfect for gatherings or comforting family meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups long-grain parboiled rice
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 scotch bonnet pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1 tsp curry powder
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • Salt, to taste
  • 6 chicken pieces (drumsticks or thighs)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1 tsp curry powder
  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon

Instructions

  1. Marinate chicken: In a bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, garlic, paprika, thyme, curry powder, chili flakes, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Grill or bake chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 35–40 minutes, turning once, until golden and cooked through.
  3. Make Jollof base: Blend red bell pepper, tomatoes, onion, and scotch bonnet until smooth.
  4. In a large pot, heat oil and sauté tomato paste for 2 minutes. Add blended mixture, thyme, curry, bay leaves, and cook on medium heat for 10–15 minutes until thick.
  5. Rinse rice and add to the pot. Pour in chicken broth and stir. Cover tightly and simmer on low heat for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until rice is cooked and fluffy.
  6. Season with salt and mix well. Serve with grilled chicken on top and garnish with fresh herbs.

Notes

  • Adjust scotch bonnet pepper based on heat preference.
  • Use homemade chicken broth for extra flavor.
  • Leftovers taste even better the next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: jollof rice, grilled chicken, West African food, spicy rice dish, cultural recipes

Find it online: https://foodiecara.com/spicy-jollof-rice-with-grilled-chicken/