Poulet Bicyclette
Poulet Bicyclette, meaning 'Bicycle Chicken,' is a popular dish in Benin and Togo, known for its flavorful and tender chicken. The name likely comes from the active lifestyle of free-range chickens that roam freely, resembling a bicycle in their movement. This dish typically involves marinating chicken pieces in a blend of spices, then grilling or roasting them to perfection. It's often served with a side of vegetables and sometimes rice or potatoes.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Chicken pieces (bone-in, skin-on)
- 2 medium Onion(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 1 tsp Ginger(grated)
- 1 tsp Cinnamon powder
- 1 tsp Coriander(chopped)
- 2 Cloves
- 1 tsp Cumin powder
- 1 tsp Pastis or anise liqueur
- 1 tsp Tabasco sauce or other hot sauce
- 2 tbsp Peanut oil or vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp Vinegar
- 0.5 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper(or to taste)
- 2 Bay leaves
- 2 medium Potatoes(peeled and quartered)
- 2 medium Carrots(peeled and sliced)
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1 Maggi cube (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, combine peanut oil, vinegar, salt, pepper, and optional Maggi cube (crushed). Add the chicken pieces and turn to coat thoroughly. Add bay leaves. Marinate for at least 40 minutes.
💡 Tip: Marinating longer will enhance the flavor. - 2
While the chicken marinates, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- 3
In a separate pot, boil the quartered potatoes in salted water until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- 4
Arrange the marinated chicken pieces on a baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Place a baking sheet underneath to catch drippings.
💡 Tip: For crispier skin, ensure chicken pieces are not touching. - 5
Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown. Turn the pieces halfway through cooking.
💡 Tip: Internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F). - 6
While the chicken is roasting, sauté the chopped onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, cinnamon, coriander, cloves, cumin, and pastis in butter over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes.
💡 Tip: Add a splash of water if the pan becomes too dry. - 7
Add the sliced carrots to the sautéed vegetables and cook for another 5-7 minutes until slightly tender.
- 8
Add the Tabasco sauce to the vegetable mixture and stir to combine.
💡 Tip: Adjust the amount of Tabasco to your spice preference. - 9
Serve the roasted Poulet Bicyclette with the sautéed vegetables and boiled potatoes.
💡 Tip: This dish is also delicious served with rice or a simple tomato sauce.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using bone-in, skin-on chicken adds more flavor and moisture.
- ✓Don't overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure even roasting.
- ✓A Maggi cube is a common flavor enhancer in West African cuisine and can be found in African markets.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other root vegetables like sweet potatoes or yams to the roasting pan.
- Grill the chicken instead of roasting for a smokier flavor.
- Serve with a side of grilled plantains.