Ghanaian Rice with Chicken Stew Recipe

1 hour

Cooking time

Ghanaian

Cuisine

Main

Meal Type

Easy

Difficulty Level

Ingredients

2 cups long grain rice
4 cups water
½ teaspoon salt
1kg chicken (cut into pieces)
½ cup vegetable oil
1 large onion (chopped)
4 medium tomatoes (blended)

2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1 seasoning cube (optional)
1 scotch bonnet pepper (optional)
1 cup water or chicken stock

Directions

Step 1 : Measure and Rinse the Rice Thoroughly

Begin by measuring two cups of rice into a bowl and rinsing it under cold running water. Gently rub the grains together to remove excess starch and impurities. Repeat until the water runs clear. Proper rinsing ensures the rice cooks into fluffy, separate grains instead of clumping together. Drain the rice completely using a sieve and set it aside. This step is essential for achieving the perfect texture to complement the rich chicken stew.

Step 2 : Cook the Rice Until Soft and Fluffy

Place a pot on medium heat and add four cups of water along with a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then add the rinsed rice. Stir briefly, reduce heat, cover, and cook for 15–20 minutes. Avoid frequent stirring. Once the rice is tender and the water is absorbed, remove from heat and let it rest before fluffing with a fork.

Step 3 : Clean and Prepare the Chicken

Wash the chicken thoroughly under running water. Remove any excess fat and cut into desired sizes if not already done. Proper cleaning ensures the chicken is safe and ready for seasoning.

Step 4 : Season the Chicken for Rich Flavor

Place the chicken in a bowl and season with salt, garlic, ginger, and seasoning cube. Mix thoroughly to coat all pieces. Allow it to marinate for at least 15–20 minutes so the flavors penetrate the meat.

Step 5 : Cook the Chicken to Tenderness

Place the seasoned chicken in a pot with a small amount of water and cook until tender. This step also produces flavorful stock that can be used in the stew.

Step 6 : Fry the Chicken for Texture

Heat oil in a pan and fry the cooked chicken until golden brown. This adds flavor and texture to the dish. Set aside after frying.

Step 7 : Blend Tomatoes and Aromatics

Blend tomatoes with onion, garlic, ginger, and pepper into a smooth mixture. This forms the base of the stew.

Step 8 : Heat Oil and Sauté Onions

Heat oil in a pot and sauté chopped onions until soft and fragrant. This builds the flavor base.

Step 9 : Add Tomato Mixture and Cook Thoroughly

Pour in the blended mixture and cook until thickened and oil separates. Stir occasionally.

Step 10 : Add Tomato Paste for Depth

Add tomato paste and cook for a few minutes to enhance color and flavor.

Step 11 : Add Chicken and Stock

Add the fried chicken and some stock to the stew. Stir well to combine.

Step 12 : Simmer and Develop Flavor

Allow the stew to simmer for 15–20 minutes so flavors deepen and blend well.

Step 13 : Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with rice and enjoy.