Barbecued Chicken Kuku Wa Kuchoma Recipe

Experience the vibrant flavors of East Africa with this authentic Swahili Barbecued Chicken Kuku Wa Kuchoma recipe! This grilling recipe, originating from Kenya and Tanzania, features tender chicken marinated in a fragrant blend of spices and herbs, then cooked to perfection over a charcoal fire. Serve this sizzling dish hot with a refreshing salad and your choice of fluffy rice or roasted potatoes. Get ready for a culinary adventure!

Prep Time 25 mins
Cook Time 45 mins
Calories 738.2 kcal
Protein 115g
Rating 4.0 (3 Reviews)
Barbecued Chicken Kuku Wa Kuchoma

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Barbecued Chicken Kuku Wa Kuchoma

  • Whole Chicken
  • Lime Juice
  • Black Pepper
  • Jalapenos
  • Garlic Cloves
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

How to Make Barbecued Chicken Kuku Wa Kuchoma

  1. Prepare the charcoal grill for medium heat.
  2. In a blender or food processor, combine 1/2 cup finely chopped onion, 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tablespoon ginger paste, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon ground coriander, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste), 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Blend until finely chopped.
  3. Place 1.5 lbs of chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts) in a large bowl. Pour the blended mixture over the chicken, ensuring it's evenly coated. Marinate for at least 20-30 minutes, or preferably longer in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
  4. Place the marinated chicken on the preheated grill. Cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  5. Remove from grill, let rest for a few minutes, and serve hot with your favorite salad and rice or potatoes.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

9 g

Sugar

4g

Fat

75g

Carbs

1g