Poulet Bicyclette
Poulet Bicyclette is a flavorful chicken dish originating from West Africa, popular in Gabon. It involves boiling chicken in a spiced broth, then marinating and grilling it to perfection. The name is thought to relate to the simplicity of its preparation, akin to riding a bicycle.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 kg Chicken(cut into pieces)
- 2 medium Onions(sliced)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger(grated)
- 0.5 teaspoon Cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon Coriander
- 0.25 teaspoon Cloves(ground)
- 0.5 teaspoon Cumin
- 1 tablespoon Pastis
- 2 dried Bay leaves
- 1 optional Habanero pepper(chopped, for heat)
- 1 optional Maggi bouillon cube(for authentic flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
- 4 tablespoons Peanut oil
- 1 lime Lime juice
- 2 medium Tomatoes(blended for marinade)
- 1 tablespoon Smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon Sweet red chili(blended)
- as needed Water
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Place chicken pieces in a large pot. Add sliced onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, cinnamon, coriander, ground cloves, cumin, pastis, bay leaves, optional habanero pepper, optional Maggi cube, salt, and black pepper. Add enough water to cover the chicken.
💡 Tip: Ensure all spices are well distributed. - 2
Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender.
- 3
While the chicken is simmering, prepare the marinade. In a blender, combine the blended tomatoes, grated ginger, minced garlic, lime juice, peanut oil, smoked paprika, and blended sweet red chili.
💡 Tip: Adjust chili to your preferred spice level. - 4
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot. Reserve the cooking liquid for later use if desired.
- 5
Generously brush the chicken pieces with the prepared marinade. Cover and let it marinate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
- 6
Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. Grill or bake the marinated chicken for 10-15 minutes per side, or until nicely browned and slightly charred.
💡 Tip: Watch carefully to prevent burning. - 7
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve hot with white rice, fried plantains, or a fresh salad.
💡 Tip: Resting allows the juices to redistribute.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a more authentic flavor, use a Maggi bouillon cube.
- ✓Adjust the amount of habanero pepper to control the heat.
- ✓Marinating overnight yields the best flavor.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Serve with a side of grilled vegetables.
- Add a touch of honey to the marinade for a sweeter glaze.