Enjoy the bold and tangy flavors of Easy Chicken Yassa, a classic West African dish featuring marinated chicken in a zesty lemon-onion sauce. This vibrant and aromatic dish is simple to prepare and perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinating Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
- Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes (plus marinating)
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (plus 2 tablespoons for cooking)
- 1 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or apple cider)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, vegetable oil, thyme, bay leaf, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
Cook the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, shaking off any excess, but reserve the marinade and onions.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side down, and brown for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook over medium heat until they are softened and caramelized, about 10 minutes.
- Pour in the reserved marinade and stir to combine with the onions.
- Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Combine and Simmer:
- Return the browned chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the onion mixture.
- Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Serve:
- Remove the bay leaf from the skillet and discard.
- Transfer the Chicken Yassa to a serving platter, spooning the onion sauce over the top.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve hot with white rice, couscous, or a side of steamed vegetables.
Serving Suggestions:
- Main Dish: Serve over a bed of fluffy white rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Side Dish: Pair with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.
Cooking Tips:
- Marinating: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Onion Variety: Use sweet onions for a milder flavor, or yellow onions for a more robust taste.
- Heat Level: Add a chopped chili pepper to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Chicken: High in protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Onions: Rich in antioxidants and beneficial sulfur compounds.
- Lemon Juice: Provides a good dose of vitamin C.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Low-Carb: A great option for those watching their carbohydrate intake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful and Aromatic: The combination of lemon, garlic, and mustard creates a tangy, savory sauce.
- Simple and Quick: Easy to prepare with straightforward steps, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Versatile: Pairs well with various sides, making it adaptable to different preferences.
Conclusion:
Easy Chicken Yassa is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the taste of West Africa to your table. With its tangy lemon-onion sauce and tender marinated chicken, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Serve it with rice or vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy the rich, bold flavors of Chicken Yassa and delight in its easy preparation.