Are you ready to ignite your taste buds with a flavorful fusion of spices and herbs? Look no further than the vibrant cuisine of Haiti, where chicken is king. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the island nation’s most mouth-watering spicy chicken recipes that will leave you craving for more.
From classic Haitian Griot with Spicy Pikliz to bold and zesty dishes like Haitian Fried Chicken with Scotch Bonnet Glaze, these 18 recipes showcase the best of Haitian cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to spice up your meal routine, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll explore the rich cultural heritage behind each dish and provide step-by-step instructions to help you recreate these culinary masterpieces in your own kitchen. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of spicy Haitian chicken recipes!
Haitian Griot with Spicy Pikliz
Griot, a classic Haitian dish, is slow-cooked beef stewed in spices and herbs, typically served with a tangy and spicy pikliz (pickled vegetables). This recipe combines the rich flavors of griot with the bold kick of pikliz.
Ingredients:
For Griot:
– 2 lbs beef brisket or chuck
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup water
For Pikliz:
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 2 tbsp white vinegar
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2-3 habanero peppers, seeded and chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef in oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add beef broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours.
4. For Pikliz: Combine cabbage, carrot, bell pepper, vinegar, cumin, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Mix well. If using habanero peppers, add them to the mixture. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve griot with pikliz on the side.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (griot) + 30 minutes (pikliz)
Haitian Fried Chicken with Scotch Bonnet Glaze
Experience the bold flavors of Haiti with this mouthwatering fried chicken recipe, elevated by a spicy and sweet scotch bonnet glaze. Perfect for those who crave a little heat in their meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Scotch Bonnet Glaze (see below)
Scotch Bonnet Glaze:
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons scotch bonnet peppers, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip chicken pieces in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry chicken for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Drizzle Scotch Bonnet Glaze over fried chicken and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creole-Style Haitian Chicken Stew
This hearty stew is a staple of Haitian cuisine, with rich flavors and tender chicken. This recipe combines the bold spices of Creole cooking with the warm, comforting essence of a traditional Haitian stew.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and red bell pepper; sauté until vegetables are tender.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Add paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper; stir well.
5. Add diced tomatoes, rice, and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Haitian Chicken Legs in Garlic Sauce
A classic Haitian dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic, onions, and spices with tender chicken legs. This recipe is a staple in many Haitian households and is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken legs
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, onion, olive oil, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken legs and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Place the chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the chicken is cooking, combine the chicken broth and grated ginger (if using) in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Brush the garlic sauce over the chicken during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Haitian Chicken and Rice (Diri ak Poule)
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the spices of Haiti with tender chicken and fluffy rice, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp ground coriander
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 3 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in tomato paste and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
6. Serve the chicken over the cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Haitian Chicken in Cashew Sauce
Experience the rich flavors of Haiti with this mouthwatering dish, where tender chicken is smothered in a creamy cashew sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup cashews, chopped
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
2. In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger; sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add cashews and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream; bring to a simmer.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and season with salt and pepper.
6. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Haitian Barbecue Chicken with Lime Marinade
Experience the vibrant flavors of Haiti with this mouthwatering barbecue chicken dish, infused with a zesty lime marinade. Perfect for a summer cookout or a unique dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lime juice, garlic, ginger, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
2. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Brush with paprika and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with cilantro before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Haitian Chicken Fricassee with Mushrooms
This hearty stew originated from Haiti, where chicken and mushrooms are slow-cooked in a rich and flavorful tomato-based sauce. Serve over rice or with crusty bread for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, and oregano.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until chicken is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Haitian-Style Jerk Chicken with Scotch Bonnet Peppers
Experience the bold flavors of Haiti with this spicy jerk chicken recipe, infused with the distinctive heat of Scotch Bonnet peppers. This dish is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to add some Caribbean flair to their meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 Scotch Bonnet peppers, chopped (use gloves when handling)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, Scotch Bonnet peppers, and garlic.
3. Place chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour the jerk mixture over the chicken, making sure they are evenly coated.
4. Massage the marinade into the chicken for about 5 minutes.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes total
Haitian Chicken and Dumplings (Bouillon Poule)
Savor the rich flavors of Haiti with this classic comfort food dish, where tender chicken and fluffy dumplings come together in a savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (optional), chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 cups dumpling mixture (see below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Dumpling Mixture:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/2 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onions, garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using) in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
4. Prepare the dumpling mixture by combining flour and shortening. Gradually add warm water to form a soft dough.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into small squares or use a cookie cutter for fun shapes.
6. Add the dumplings to the pot, cover, and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until they float to the surface.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes total
Haitian Coconut Milk Braised Chicken
This traditional Haitian dish is a staple of Creole cuisine, where the rich flavors of coconut milk and spices meld together to create a tender and aromatic chicken. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, ginger, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chicken to the pot; cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour in coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low; braise for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves; serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Haitian Chicken Wings with Citrus Glaze
Experience the bold flavors of Haitian cuisine with these crispy chicken wings smothered in a tangy citrus glaze. Perfect for game-day gatherings or casual get-togethers, this recipe is sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, honey, soy sauce, ginger, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add chicken wings and toss to coat.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spray with vegetable oil. Arrange chicken wings in a single layer.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together remaining orange juice and lime juice. Brush glaze over chicken wings during the last 5 minutes of baking.
6. Serve hot with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing (optional).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Haitian Chicken and Plantain Skewers
Experience the bold flavors of Haiti with these succulent chicken and plantain skewers, marinated in a zesty mixture of lime juice, garlic, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 ripe plantains, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken and plantain slices to the marinade. Mix well to coat.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Thread 3-4 pieces of chicken and 1-2 plantain slices onto each skewer.
5. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the plantains are caramelized.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides or as a main course.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Haitian Red Wine Braised Chicken
Experience the bold flavors of Haiti with this rich and savory chicken dish, slow-cooked in a mixture of red wine, spices, and aromatics. This hearty braise is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bay leaf
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown chicken on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add red wine, bay leaf, and browned chicken to the pot. Cover and transfer to oven.
6. Braise for 2-3 hours or until chicken is tender and falling apart.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Haitian Chicken Patties (Pâté Poule)
This classic Haitian dish is a flavorful and juicy take on traditional chicken patties. With its blend of spices, herbs, and crispy exterior, it’s no wonder Pâté Poule has become a beloved staple in Haitian cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, onion, parsley, scallions, garlic, ginger, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
4. Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
5. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as rice, beans, or fried plantains.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Haitian Stuffed Chicken with Spinach and Cheese
Experience the bold flavors of Haiti with this mouthwatering dish! This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a rich spinach and cheese filling, perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix spinach, cheese, breadcrumbs, and a pinch of salt.
3. Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach mixture, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken, then sprinkle with paprika.
5. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Haitian Chicken and Okra Stew
This hearty stew is a staple of Haitian cuisine, combining the richness of chicken with the tender goodness of okra. With its bold flavors and comforting warmth, it’s perfect for a chilly evening or as a satisfying main dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, onions, tomatoes)
– 1 cup chopped fresh okra
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can coconut milk
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the mixed vegetables, okra, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the coconut milk and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is tender.
5. Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Haitian Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken
Experience the bold flavors of Haiti with this aromatic roasted chicken recipe, infused with the brightness of lemon and the warmth of pepper.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp black peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, black pepper, garlic, and thyme.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your culinary routine with these 18 mouth-watering Haitian chicken recipes! From Griot with Spicy Pikliz to Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken, this collection features a range of dishes that showcase the unique flavors and spices of Haitian cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like Creole-Style Stew or adventurous like Cashew Sauce, there’s something for everyone. So go ahead and ignite your taste buds with these deliciously spicy recipes!
