Easy Recipe for Senegalese Yassa Chicken

Senegalese Yassa Chicken is a delightful dish known for its tangy, savory, and slightly spicy flavor profile. Marinated in lemon juice and onions, then slow-cooked to perfection, this traditional West African recipe is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Here’s how you can make Yassa Chicken at home.

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Ingredients

To make Senegalese Yassa Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs (or a whole chicken, cut into pieces)
• 4 large onions, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1-2 teaspoons hot pepper (like Scotch bonnet or cayenne pepper), finely chopped (optional)
• 1 cup chicken broth or water
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Cooked white rice, for serving

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Preparation Steps

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, hot pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Cook the Onions

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté the Onions: Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent (about 10 minutes). Remove half of the onions and set them aside.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

1. Brown the Chicken: Remove the chicken pieces from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and add them to the pot with the remaining onions. Brown the chicken on all sides until golden brown.
2. Add the Marinade: Pour the reserved marinade over the chicken and onions. Add the chicken broth or water and the bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil.
   

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Step 4: Simmer the Chicken

1. Reduce the Heat: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
2. Add the Onions: Add the reserved onions back to the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking to reheat and soak up the flavors.

Step 5: Serve

1. Prepare the Rice: While the chicken is simmering, cook the white rice according to the package instructions.
2. Plate the Dish: Serve the Yassa Chicken hot over a bed of white rice. Spoon the flavorful onion sauce over the top.

Tips for Making Perfect Yassa Chicken

• Marinate Longer: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the lemon juice and spices to penetrate the meat fully.
• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the hot pepper. Conversely, if you love heat, add more to taste.
• Use a Whole Chicken: For a more traditional approach, use a whole chicken cut into pieces. This ensures a mix of dark and white meat, adding depth to the dish.

Conclusion

Senegalese Yassa Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish that brings the vibrant tastes of West Africa to your kitchen. With its tangy lemon marinade and rich onion sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite. Follow this easy recipe to enjoy a taste of Senegal at home, and don't forget to pair it with perfectly cooked white rice for a complete meal.

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FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken for Yassa Chicken?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts or thighs. However, bone-in chicken adds more flavor to the dish.

What can I substitute for Dijon mustard?

If you don't have Dijon mustard, you can use yellow mustard or a small amount of grainy mustard.

Is Yassa Chicken very spicy?

The heat level of Yassa Chicken can be adjusted to your preference. You can reduce or omit the hot pepper for a milder dish.

Can I make Yassa Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, Yassa Chicken can be made ahead of time. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

What other sides can I serve with Yassa Chicken?

In addition to white rice, Yassa Chicken pairs well with couscous, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.