How to Make the Perfect Suya Chicken Skewers
Nigerian · Easy · 35 min · 6 servings
These West African grilled chicken skewers are seasoned with a mild nutty suya spice blend that is a fantastic kid friendly introduction to Nigerian street food. Kids love eating food off skewers and the peanut-based coating adds a deliciously rich flavor everyone at the table will enjoy.
Why this recipe works
This Suya Chicken Skewers recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 35 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 290 calories with 30g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 7 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1.5 pounds boneless chicken breast cut into strips
- 0.5 cup ground roasted peanuts
- 1 teaspoon mild paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Make the Suya Coating
Combine ground roasted peanuts paprika garlic powder ground ginger and salt in a bowl. Mix well to create a fragrant dry spice blend that will coat the chicken.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Toss chicken strips with vegetable oil then press the suya spice mix onto each piece coating all sides generously. Thread onto skewers and let rest for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Grill the Skewers
Cook skewers on a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat for 5 to 6 minutes per side until cooked through with a slightly charred exterior kids will love.
Step 4: Serve with Sides
Serve hot suya chicken skewers with sliced tomatoes onion rings and cucumber for a fun and kid friendly West African street food dinner at home.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- boneless chicken breast → boneless chicken thighs for juicier and more forgiving results
- ground roasted peanuts → smooth peanut butter mixed with spices for an easier coating
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Cooking on heat that is too low which steams instead of grills the chicken
- Not letting the coated skewers rest before grilling which causes the coating to fall off
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 290 calories, 30g protein, 8g carbs, 15g fat, 2g fiber.
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