Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Poulet Yassa is a dish that beautifully balances tangy, savory, and slightly spicy notes. The marinade of lemon juice, onions, garlic, and mustard infuses the chicken with layers of flavor, while the slow cooking process ensures tenderness in every bite. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for gatherings. Plus, it offers a taste of authentic West African cuisine without requiring complicated ingredients.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken
Onions
Lemon juice
Garlic
Dijon mustard
Vegetable oil
Black pepper
Salt
Chili powder (optional)
White rice
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine chicken pieces with lemon juice, sliced onions, garlic, mustard, salt, and pepper. Cover and marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until soft and translucent.
- Remove chicken from marinade and brown on all sides for 5–7 minutes.
- Pour in the remaining marinade, reduce the heat, and simmer covered for 30–40 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- While the chicken cooks, prepare rice according to package instructions.
- Serve Poulet Yassa over a bed of rice, garnished with herbs if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Variations
- Substitute chicken with fish or lamb for a different protein option.
- Add sliced bell peppers or carrots for more color and nutrition.
- Use hot chili peppers instead of chili powder for extra heat.
- Try basmati or jasmine rice in place of plain white rice for a fragrant twist.
- For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with hearty vegetables or tofu.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover Poulet Yassa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors intensify as it sits, making it even tastier the next day. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth while reheating.
FAQs
What is Poulet Yassa?
Poulet Yassa is a traditional West African dish made with chicken marinated in lemon, onions, and mustard, then simmered until tender.
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, you can substitute bone-in chicken with boneless thighs or breasts, but bone-in pieces give more flavor to the dish.
Do I have to marinate overnight?
Overnight marination gives the deepest flavor, but even 2 hours will provide a delicious result.
What can I serve with Poulet Yassa besides rice?
It also pairs well with couscous, fried plantains, or flatbread.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes, simply add more chili powder or fresh hot peppers to increase the spice level.
Is Poulet Yassa gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free as long as all condiments used are gluten-free.
Can I freeze Poulet Yassa?
Yes, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Keep the pot covered while simmering and avoid overcooking. The marinade helps keep the chicken moist.
What type of mustard works best?
Dijon mustard is traditional, but you can use grainy mustard for added texture and flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it actually tastes better when made ahead since the flavors deepen as it sits.
Conclusion
Poulet Yassa is a comforting and flavorful West African dish that combines zesty citrus, caramelized onions, and tender chicken for a truly memorable meal. Whether you serve it for a family dinner or at a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress with its bold taste and cultural richness.
Poulet Yassa
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Poulet Yassa is a classic West African dish featuring chicken marinated in tangy lemon juice, onions, garlic, and mustard, then slow-cooked until tender. Served over rice, it’s a vibrant, aromatic, and comforting meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken pieces
Onions, sliced
Lemon juice
Garlic, minced
Dijon mustard
Vegetable oil
Black pepper
Salt
Chili powder (optional)
White rice
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine chicken pieces with lemon juice, sliced onions, garlic, mustard, salt, and pepper. Cover and marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until soft and translucent.
- Remove chicken from marinade and brown on all sides for 5–7 minutes.
- Pour in the remaining marinade, reduce heat, and simmer covered for 30–40 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Prepare rice according to package instructions.
- Serve Poulet Yassa over rice, garnished with herbs if desired.
Notes
Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken with fish or lamb.
Vegetable Add-ins: Sliced bell peppers or carrots for more color and nutrition.
Spice Adjustment: Use hot chili peppers instead of chili powder for extra heat.
Rice Variations: Try basmati or jasmine rice instead of plain white rice.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with hearty vegetables or tofu.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Marinate and Simmer
- Cuisine: West African
