Ghanaian Brown Stewed Chicken with Spiced Tomato Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender chicken pieces simmered in a deeply flavored tomato and spice sauce, caramelized to perfection in this classic Ghanaian stew. This african-inspired chicken ready in about 70 minutes blends pounds chicken drumsticks and thighs, tablespoons vegetable oil, tablespoons tomato paste into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 480 calories and feeds 6, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 55 min Serves 6 African cuisine 480 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 4 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Season 3 pounds chicken drumsticks and thighs with 2 teaspoons salt and 1 teaspoon black pepper. Brown the chicken in batches for 6-7 minutes per side until golden and caramelized. Remove and set aside.
  2. Step 2: Lower heat to medium, add 2 chopped medium onions, 5 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tablespoon grated ginger to the skillet. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  3. Step 3: Stir in 3 tablespoons tomato paste and 14 ounces canned diced tomatoes, cook for 4 minutes until the tomato paste darkens and the mixture thickens.
  4. Step 4: Add 1 tablespoon curry powder, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 2 bay leaves, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, and 1 small chopped scotch bonnet pepper (optional). Stir to combine well.
  5. Step 5: Return the browned chicken to the skillet, pour in 1 cup chicken broth, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer gently for 35-40 minutes until chicken is tender and sauce is thickened.
  6. Step 6: Remove bay leaves before serving. Serve hot with steamed rice or fried plantains.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Ghanaian Brown Stewed Chicken with Spiced Tomato Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 70 minutes (15 min prep + 55 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Ghanaian Brown Stewed Chicken with Spiced Tomato Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Ghanaian Brown Stewed Chicken with Spiced Tomato Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Ghanaian Brown Stewed Chicken with Spiced Tomato Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 6 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 6). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Ghanaian Brown Stewed Chicken with Spiced Tomato Sauce?

African chicken like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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