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Ghanaian Lunch: Mouthwatering Paleo Suya-spiced Chicken with Coconut Rice and Green Beans Medley

A flavorful ghanaian lunch perfect for paleo eaters - made for visual appeal and culinary depth.

🕒 (Prep, Cook, Total) - Prep Time: 30 minutes - Cook Time: 25 minutes - Total Time: 55 minutes
🍽 Servings: 2 servings
🔥 Difficulty: Advanced
🌎 Cuisine: Ghanaian, Paleo

Allergens

None

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite
  • sized pieces
  • 2 cups jasmine rice
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and halved
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 medium yellow bell pepper, diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons Suya spice blend (see recipe below)
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Suya spice blend by combining 2 teaspoons each of ground ginger, ground garlic, ground coriander, and ground cumin, along with 1 teaspoon each of salt, black pepper, and ground cloves. Set aside. In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 3 tablespoons of Suya spice blend and 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until all the water has been absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and stir in the coconut milk. Cover again and set aside. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium high heat. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8 10 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the green beans, red and yellow bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook for 5 7 minutes or until vegetables are tender crisp. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. To serve, spoon coconut rice onto plates, top with Suya spiced chicken, and surround with the green beans medley. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.

Chef’s Insight

The key to achieving an authentic Suya flavor is using the right balance of spices. Don't be afraid to adjust the spice blend to your taste preferences.

Notes

Be sure to marinate the chicken long enough for it to absorb the Suya flavors.

Cultural or Historical Background

Suya is a popular street food in West Africa, particularly in Nigeria and Ghana. It traditionally consists of skewered, grilled meat seasoned with a unique blend of spices. In this recipe, we're adapting it to suit the Paleo diet by using chicken breast instead of skewered meat.