Spicy and Flavorful Jollof Rice with Grilled Chicken 🍚🔥

 New Recipe

Spicy and Flavorful Jollof Rice with Grilled Chicken 🍚🔥

Ingredients:

• For the Rice:

  • 2 cups long-grain parboiled rice (washed and drained)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp thyme (dried or fresh)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1-2 tsp ground cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
  • 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 1 tbsp white vinegar
  • Salt to taste

• For the Grilled Chicken (optional, for serving):

  • 4 chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp ground thyme
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the grilled chicken (optional):

   • In a bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, thyme, coriander, salt, and pepper.
   • Rub this marinade over the chicken thighs and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or longer if possible).
   • Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
   • Once cooked, set the chicken aside to rest before slicing into strips or serving whole.

2. Prepare the Jollof Rice:

   • In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onions and garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
   • Add the bell pepper and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
   • Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, ginger, cumin, thyme, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 5 minutes until the tomato mixture is well combined and slightly reduced.

3. Cook the rice:

   • Add the washed rice to the pot and stir well to coat the rice with the tomato and spice mixture.
   • Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and white vinegar, then bring to a simmer.
   • Once the liquid is simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
   • If the rice isn’t fully cooked after the liquid is absorbed, add a little more broth or water, cover, and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.

4. Finish and serve:

   • Fluff the rice with a fork, and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper if desired.
   • Serve the Jollof rice with the grilled chicken on top or alongside. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.

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Optional Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and serve the Jollof rice with roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers for a hearty dish.
• Spicy and Sweet: Add a tablespoon of honey or a few tablespoons of raisins for a sweet balance to the spicy Jollof rice.
• Protein Variation: Swap the grilled chicken for grilled shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a different protein option.