Poulet Dibi (Grilled Chicken)
Poulet Dibi, also known as chicken afra, is a popular Ivorian grilled chicken dish characterized by its flavorful marinade and smoky char. The chicken pieces are marinated in a blend of spices, herbs, and often mustard and lime, then grilled or roasted until tender and slightly charred. It's typically served with grilled onions and a side of spicy sauce or mustard.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 whole Chicken(cut into 8 pieces (or use 4 chicken thighs and 4 drumsticks))
- 2 large Onions(sliced into rings)
- 1 Lime(juiced)
- 2 tablespoons Mustard(Dijon or similar)
- 2 teaspoons Garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons Ginger powder
- 2 tablespoons Ground black pepper
- Salt(to taste)
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon Chili powder(or to taste)
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper(finely chopped (optional, for extra heat))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Wash the chicken pieces thoroughly. In a large bowl, combine the chicken with lime juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, ginger powder, black pepper, salt, vegetable oil, chili powder, and optional scotch bonnet pepper.
💡 Tip: Ensure all chicken pieces are well coated with the marinade. - 2
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
- 3
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) or prepare a grill.
- 4
Arrange the marinated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or directly on the grill grates.
💡 Tip: If using a baking sheet, ensure there's space between the pieces for even cooking. - 5
Roast or grill the chicken for about 30-40 minutes, turning halfway through, until cooked through and nicely charred.
💡 Tip: The exact time will depend on the size of the chicken pieces and your oven/grill. - 6
While the chicken is cooking, toss the sliced onions with a little oil, salt, and pepper. Grill or roast them alongside the chicken for the last 15-20 minutes, until softened and slightly caramelized.
- 7
Once cooked, remove the chicken and onions from the heat. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
- 8
Serve the Poulet Dibi hot, accompanied by the grilled onions. It can be served with a side of spicy sauce, mustard, or attiéké.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- ✓If grilling, use medium-high heat and be mindful of flare-ups due to the oil in the marinade.
- ✓Don't overcrowd the grill or baking sheet to ensure proper charring.
🔄 Variations
- Use lamb or beef instead of chicken for a different 'Dibi' experience.
- Add other spices like paprika or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
- Serve with a side of attiéké or a fresh salad.