< 1 mn read
Chicken suya is a delicious grilled dish that’s perfect for gatherings. Here’s a simple recipe to recreate this smoky and spicy delight in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 500g Chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, either works; thighs are juicier)
- 2 tablespoons Groundnut oil (for moisture and flavor)
- 3-4 tablespoons Suya spice mix (yaji) (can be store-bought or homemade: ground peanuts, ginger, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, stock cubes)
- Salt to taste
- Wooden skewers (optional; soak in water for 10 minutes if using)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken
- Clean and cut the chicken into thin, bite-sized strips or pieces.
- Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Season the Chicken
- In a mixing bowl, drizzle the chicken with groundnut oil.
- Generously sprinkle the suya spice mix over the chicken and add salt.
- Mix thoroughly with your hands and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Skewer the Chicken
- If using wooden skewers, soak them to prevent burning.
- Thread the marinated chicken strips onto the skewers, leaving space between each piece.
- Grill the Chicken
- For charcoal grill: Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally and brushing with more oil to keep it moist.
- For oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F), bake for 20-25 minutes (flip halfway), and broil for the last 5 minutes for a charred finish.
- Serve
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. Serve with sliced onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, or alongside garri, fried plantains, or jollof rice.
Tips for the Best Chicken Suya
- Use fresh suya spice: Making the spice mix fresh enhances flavor.
- Don’t overcook: Keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it stays tender.
- Add some heat: Increase cayenne pepper or chili powder for extra spice.
Enjoy your homemade chicken suya, bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion!