This flavorful dish features grilled chicken paired with caramelized sweet onions and served with a delicious Jollof-style spaghetti, offering a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors.
Author:Mari
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Grilling, Sautéing, Boiling
Cuisine:African, West African
Ingredients
UnitsScale
For the grilled chicken:
4 chicken thighs (or breasts)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon ground thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Lemon juice (for marinating)
For the caramelized onions:
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon sugar (optional for extra caramelization)
Salt, to taste
For the Jollof spaghetti:
1/2lb spaghetti (or your choice of pasta)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon ground thyme
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/2cup tomato paste
1/2cup chicken broth (or water)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Marinate the chicken: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, thyme, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Coat the chicken pieces with the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
Cook the chicken: Preheat the grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked and golden brown. Set aside.
Caramelize the onions: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes until they become soft and golden. If desired, add sugar to enhance the caramelization. Season with salt and set aside.
Prepare the Jollof spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In a large pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until softened. Stir in the turmeric, thyme, and paprika, then add the tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes, letting it darken slightly.
Add chicken broth (or water), salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, then toss in the cooked spaghetti. Stir to coat the spaghetti with the Jollof sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined.
Serve: Plate the grilled chicken, top with the caramelized onions, and serve with the Jollof spaghetti. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the grilled chicken before serving.
To make this dish spicier, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped chili to the Jollof spaghetti sauce.
If you prefer a lighter version, you can swap the chicken thighs for skinless chicken breasts.