Chicken Yassa
Chicken Yassa is a popular Gambian dish featuring chicken marinated in a zesty blend of onions, lemon juice, mustard, and spices, then typically grilled or pan-fried and served with rice. It's known for its bright, tangy, and savory flavors.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 whole Chicken(cut into pieces (or 4 chicken legs/thighs))
- 4 large Onions(sliced thinly)
- 2 large Lemons(juiced)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 5 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 Bay leaves
- 1 tsp Stock powder or cube(chicken flavor (optional))
- 1 tsp Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Cooking oil
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper(optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Wash the chicken pieces and pat them dry. Score the chicken pieces to allow the marinade to penetrate.
- 2
In a large bowl, combine the sliced onions, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, black pepper, salt, and optional scotch bonnet pepper. Mix well.
- 3
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
- 4
Heat the cooking oil in a large pan or pot over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserving the marinade and onions) and brown the chicken pieces on all sides until golden. This may need to be done in batches.
- 5
Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the marinated onions to the pan and sauté until softened and lightly browned.
- 6
Add the reserved marinade (including any juices) and the bay leaves to the pan with the onions. Cook for 5 minutes. If using stock powder/cube, stir it in now.
- 7
Return the browned chicken pieces to the pan. Add about 1/2 cup of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- 8
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Serve the Chicken Yassa hot with plain boiled rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a more intense lemon flavor, add a bit more lemon juice at the end.
- ✓Grilling the chicken before adding it to the sauce can add a smoky flavor.
- ✓Yassa can also be made with fish or other meats.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add sliced bell peppers to the marinade or sauté them with the onions.
- Some recipes include green olives in the final dish.
- For a spicier version, use more scotch bonnet peppers or add chili flakes.