Ramadan is a time of reflection, prayer, and of course, delicious food! If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful dish to break your fast, look no further than this mouth-watering Nigerian Suya Spiced Chicken. Paired with a refreshing Zobo drink, this meal is not only easy to prepare but also packed with bold flavors that will leave you and your family craving more. Whether you’re fasting or just looking for a quick, satisfying meal, this recipe is perfect for you. Let’s dive into the kitchen and create something magical!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy Ramadan evenings.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare and store before fasting or whip it up in minutes before breaking your fast.
- Bold & Spicy: Packed with authentic Nigerian Suya flavors.
- Healthy & Nutritious: High in protein and low in carbs.
- Versatile: Pair it with a refreshing Zobo drink for the ultimate Ramadan meal.
Ingredients for Suya Spiced Chicken (Serves 5)
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) chicken thighs or drumsticks (skinless)
- 4 tablespoons Suya spice mix (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons groundnut (peanut) oil or any neutral oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice tolerance)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon powder (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for a tangy kick)
For the Zobo Drink:
- 2 cups dried hibiscus (Zobo) leaves
- 1 medium-sized ginger (peeled and sliced)
- 1-2 cups pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1-2 cups sugar (adjust to taste)
- 5 cups water
- A few mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
Grocery List
- Chicken thighs or drumsticks
- Suya spice mix
- Groundnut oil
- Garlic powder
- Ginger powder
- Smoked paprika
- Cayenne pepper
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Chicken bouillon powder
- Lemon
- Dried hibiscus leaves
- Fresh ginger
- Pineapple (fresh or canned)
- Sugar
- Mint leaves (optional)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Suya Spiced Chicken
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the Suya spice mix, garlic powder, ginger powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, salt, chicken bouillon powder, lemon juice, and groundnut oil. Mix well to form a thick paste.
- Coat the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and ensure they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with cling film and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the marinated chicken on a baking tray lined with foil or parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred at the edges.
- Serve Hot: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Serve hot with a side of sliced onions, tomatoes, and cabbage for a complete Suya experience.
Step 2: Prepare the Zobo Drink
- Boil the Hibiscus: In a large pot, add the dried hibiscus leaves, sliced ginger, and water. Bring to a boil and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Add Pineapple: Add the pineapple chunks and sugar to the pot. Stir well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Strain & Cool: Strain the mixture into a pitcher or jug, discarding the hibiscus leaves and ginger. Allow the drink to cool completely, then refrigerate until chilled.
- Serve: Pour the Zobo drink into glasses, garnish with mint leaves, and serve alongside the Suya Spiced Chicken.
Cooking Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour marinating time)
- Cooking: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
Useful Side Tips & Notes
- Make-Ahead Tip: Marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the fridge. This saves time and enhances the flavor.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re not a fan of too much heat, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it entirely.
- Grill Option: If you have a grill, cook the chicken on medium heat for a smokier flavor.
- Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Zobo Variations: Add a splash of orange juice or a few slices of cucumber for a refreshing twist.
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Final Thoughts
This Nigerian Suya Spiced Chicken is a game-changer for your Ramadan meals. It’s simple, flavorful, and pairs perfectly with the refreshing Zobo drink. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting guests, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your creations with me on social media using the hashtag #RamadanWith . Happy cooking, and may your Ramadan be blessed with joy, peace, and delicious food!
