Description

Poulet Yassa is a classic Senegalese dish featuring tender chicken marinated in a flavorful blend of mustard, lemon juice, and spices, then simmered in a rich and tangy caramelized onion sauce. This hearty and aromatic meal is a beloved traditional favorite in Senegal.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Marinade:

2 lbs (900g) chicken thighs or drumsticks
1 large onion, thinly sliced
3 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Stew:

2–3 large onions, thinly sliced
3 tbsp vegetable oil
1 cup chicken broth or water
1 chicken bouillon cube (optional)
2 tbsp mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
1 chili pepper (optional – Scotch bonnet or jalapeño)
Cooked rice or couscous (for serving)

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Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken with sliced onions, mustard, lemon juice, garlic, pepper, and salt. Mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best for deep flavor).
Sear the Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade (reserve onions). Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides (about 4–5 minutes per side). Set aside.
Caramelize the Onions: In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the reserved onions from the marinade until soft and caramelized (about 10–15 minutes).
Simmer with Sauce: Add the seared chicken back in. Stir in mustard, chicken broth, and chili pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes until chicken is tender and the sauce thickens.
Serve: Serve hot over fluffy white rice, couscous, or fried plantains.

Notes

For extra tang, add a splash of vinegar or more lemon juice before serving.
You can grill the marinated chicken before adding to the sauce for added smoky flavor.
Great for meal prep — the flavors deepen over time!

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 380
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 130mg