Go Back
–+ people

Easy Chicken Yassa Recipe

Ever wondered how a simple marinade can turn everyday chicken into a succulent West African masterpiece? Welcome to our deep dive into Easy Chicken Yassa – a dish where citrus magic, tender poultry, and sweet caramelized onions come together to create unforgettable flavor.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Senagal
Servings 4 people
Calories 475 kcal

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Resealable bag
  • Blender or food processor
  • Skillet
  • Grill
  • Cutting board

Ingredients
  

Chicken Yassa Ingredients

  • 1 kg chicken legs and thighs (bone in, skin on)
  • 1 large brown onion, roughly chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
  • 2 lemons (juice and zest) or mix of lemon and lime for added tang
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon olive or peanut oil peanut oil gives a nutty twist
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust for heat
  • salt to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 3 large onions, thinly sliced for caramelizing
  • 1-2 bay leaves
  • 1 Scotch bonnet or habanero pepper pierced, use sparingly
  • 300 ml chicken stock low-sodium recommended

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Season and score the chicken with salt and pepper.
  • Step 2: In a blender or food processor, blend the chopped onion, garlic, lemon juice, zest, Dijon mustard, oil, and cayenne pepper until smooth.
  • Step 3: Place the chicken in a large bowl or resealable bag, pour the marinade over it, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  • Step 4: Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken on all sides until nicely browned. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
  • Step 5: In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook over medium heat until they become deep golden brown and caramelized.
  • Step 6: Add bay leaves and the pierced Scotch bonnet pepper, pour in the remaining marinade and chicken stock, return the chicken to the pan, and simmer for about 20 minutes until cooked through.
  • Step 7: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove bay leaves and pepper if desired, then serve hot with your favorite side.
Easy Chicken Yassa Recipe

Notes

For best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate overnight. Avoid overcrowding the skillet during browning to ensure proper searing. The caramelized onions add a rich sweetness that balances the tangy citrus.

Nutrition

Calories: 475kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 42gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 145mgSodium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin C: 42mgIron: 1mg
Keyword Caramelized Onions, Citrus Marinade, Easy Chicken Yassa, Senegalese Chicken
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!