Pepper Chicken(International: Africa)
Pepper Chicken is a flavorful African dish featuring tender chicken legs simmered in a spicy tomato sauce with onions, red pepper, and herbs. Its bold, savory flavors make it perfect for hearty family dinners or entertaining guests who enjoy rich, aromatic cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown chicken pieces on both sides in hot oil about 15 minutes.
- Remove from skillet and set aside, reserving the drippings.
- Add drained tomatoes and sliced onions to the skillet drippings.
- Stir in red pepper, thyme, and salt.
- Bring to a boil. Return chicken legs to the skillet.
- Spoon tomato mixture over the chicken.
- Bring the mixture back to boiling, then reduce the heat.
- Cover and simmer for 35 to 45 minutes or until the chicken is tender.
- Skim off excess fat before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider using cayenne pepper instead of ground red pepper. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of red pepper. You can also substitute chicken thighs or breasts for the legs, adjusting the cooking time as needed. Searing the chicken skin-side down first can enhance the flavor, similar to techniques used in Tom Kha Kaichicken Coconut Soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pepper chicken over steamed rice or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. It pairs well with a fresh salad, like Southern Plantation Salad, to balance the richness. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pepper Chicken(International: Africa) contains roughly 53 calories, with 2g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (227% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 608mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but it may require less cooking time. Keep an eye on the chicken and adjust the simmering time to ensure it remains moist and tender.
What can I substitute for thyme?
If you don't have thyme, oregano or Italian seasoning can be good alternatives. Both will impart a different flavor profile but will still complement the dish well.
Is it necessary to skim off the fat before serving?
While skimming off the fat is not strictly necessary, it helps to create a lighter dish. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can leave some fat in the sauce for added depth.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).