Cameroon Rice with Chicken Stew: Authentic One-Pot Recipe & Cooking Guide from Scratch
🥘 Introduction: What Is Cameroon Rice with Chicken Stew?
Cameroon Rice with Chicken Stew is a beloved West African dish that brings together fluffy boiled rice and deeply seasoned tomato-based chicken stew. The stew is often made with fresh tomatoes, spices, herbs, onions, and either fried or boiled chicken. Known for its rich aroma, colorful presentation, and bold flavors, this dish is a staple in Cameroonian homes — especially on Sundays and festive occasions.
🛒 Ingredients List for Cameroon Chicken Stew with Rice
For the Chicken Stew:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken (cut into pieces) | 1 whole chicken or 1.5 kg | Skin-on or skinless, as preferred |
| Fresh tomatoes | 4–5 medium | Blended or grated |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons | Deepens the stew flavor |
| Onion | 2 medium | One for marinating, one for stew |
| Garlic | 4 cloves | Crushed |
| Ginger | 1 inch | Grated |
| Thyme | 1 teaspoon | Dried or fresh |
| Bay leaves | 2 | Adds depth to the stew |
| White/black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | To taste |
| Chicken seasoning cubes | 2–3 cubes | Maggi, Knorr, or similar |
| Salt | To taste | |
| Scotch bonnet/hot pepper | 1–2 | Optional, for heat |
| Vegetable or palm oil | 1/3 cup | For frying and flavor |
For the Rice:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Long grain rice | 2 cups | Washed |
| Water | 4 cups | For boiling |
| Salt | To taste | Optional |
🔪 Step-by-Step Preparation of Cameroon Rice with Chicken Stew
✅ Step 1: Clean & Season the Chicken
- Rinse chicken pieces and pat dry.
- Marinate with salt, pepper, garlic, ginger, thyme, and 1 chopped onion.
- Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (overnight for deeper flavor).
✅ Step 2: Brown or Boil the Chicken
- Option A: Lightly fry the chicken pieces until golden brown.
- Option B: Boil the seasoned chicken in a little water until cooked through. Reserve the stock.
✅ Step 3: Prepare the Stew Base
- Heat oil in a large pot.
- Sauté sliced onions until soft and translucent.
- Add blended tomatoes and tomato paste.
- Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and loses its raw tomato smell (about 15–20 minutes).
✅ Step 4: Add Chicken & Simmer
- Add fried or boiled chicken pieces into the tomato base.
- Pour in reserved chicken stock or water (about 1 cup).
- Add bay leaves and adjust seasoning with salt and seasoning cubes.
- Let it simmer for 10–15 minutes until the chicken absorbs the flavors and the stew thickens.
✅ Step 5: Cook the Rice
- In a separate pot, bring water to a boil with a pinch of salt.
- Add washed rice and cook on medium heat until tender.
- Drain excess water if needed and fluff with a fork.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Cameroon Chicken Stew is best served hot with:
- White boiled rice (as in this recipe)
- Fried ripe plantains
- Steamed vegetables
- Salad or avocado slices
💡 Expert Tips for the Perfect Cameroon Chicken Stew
- Use fresh tomatoes for a naturally sweet stew.
- For deeper flavor, marinate your chicken overnight.
- Allow enough time for the tomato stew to properly reduce before adding chicken.
- Frying the chicken gives it a crispy edge, while boiling keeps it moist—both are delicious!
🔄 Recipe Variations
- Spicy Stew: Add extra scotch bonnet peppers for heat lovers.
- Veggie-Loaded Version: Add carrots, green beans, or bell peppers to the stew.
- Palm Oil Base: Swap vegetable oil for red palm oil for a more traditional flavor.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this stew with turkey or beef?
A: Yes! Turkey, beef, or even fish can be used with the same base recipe.
Q: Can I store leftovers?
A: Absolutely. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to a month.
Q: What’s the best rice to use?
A: Long grain parboiled rice is best as it remains firm and fluffy.
🏁 Final Thoughts: Cameroon Rice & Chicken Stew at Its Best
Cameroon Rice with Chicken Stew is a celebration of vibrant spices, rich flavors, and hearty satisfaction. It’s a dish that brings people together — perfect for weekday family dinners or festive occasions. With this step-by-step guide, you can recreate the comforting taste of Cameroonian kitchens right in your home.
