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Nigerian Chicken Suya Skewers

chicken suya skewers for serving
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35 min

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2

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Poultry

A Nigerian street food staple with a savory spice blend can be grilled, broiled, or cooked on the stovetop.

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Ingredients

For the yajin kuli:

  • 1/2 cup spooned roasted groundnut/peanut powder

  • 1 tablespoon ground ginger

  • 1 tablespoon sweet paprika

  • 1 tablespoon onion powder

  • 1 teaspoon fine sea or table salt

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper powder

  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the chicken suya:

  • <strong>1</strong> pound boneless chicken breast

  • 3 tablespoons neutral cooking oil

    (We like peanut oil for this dish specifically, but any neutral oil will work.)

To serve:

  • Thinly sliced red onions, tomatoes, and cilantro leaves

Step By Step

Instructions

For the yajin kuli:

1
Combine all ingredients in a jar with a lid. Secure the lid and shake to combine. This mix will keep on the counter, but we like to make a bigger batch and store in the fridge or freezer, where it will keep for six months.

For the chicken suya:

1
If using wooden skewers, soak them for at least 30 minutes in cold water so they don’t burn during cooking.
2
Cut the chicken breasts into at least 1-inch to 1 1/2-inch cubes.
3
Place chicken chunks in a large mixing bowl and drizzle the peanut oil over it. Sprinkle a scant 1/2 cup of yajin kuli over the chicken, reserving the rest to serve. Toss carefully to ensure all the pieces are evenly coated in the blend.
4
Thread about 6 to 8 pieces chicken cubes onto each skewer with the pointy end up. Don't leave any space between pieces: You don't want any of the skewer exposed except for a 2 - 3 inch section at the bottom that serves as a handle. Repeat for the rest of the chicken.

To broil:

1
Set the broiler to high and position a rack 6 to 8 inches from the heat source.
2
Place the chicken skewers on a lightly greased baking sheet and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning halfway through.

To cook on stovetop:

1
Heat a grill pan to medium heat and lightly oil with peanut oil (or other high smoke point oil you have).
2
Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, giving a quarter turn every 3 to 4 minutes until all sides are cooked.

To grill:

1
Light the grill and lightly grease the grates.
2
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 5 to 6 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. If the chicken isn't completely cooked, move to indirect heat until the temperature registers 160°F.

To serve:

1
Transfer chicken to a platter and rest for a few minutes. Serve with fresh sliced tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro.

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