The Most Authentic Chicken Pepper Soup Recipe. Super Tasty and Quick!

Ingredients

• 1 kg Chicken (bone-in, preferably a mix of thighs and drumsticks (hard chicken))
• 2 tbsp Salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp Ground Zhangsa (nutty, oily seed with strong flavor (often called uziza seed))
• 4 Mini Bell Peppers (sweet mini peppers, can substitute with half a regular bell pepper, sliced)
• 1 Habanero Pepper (use gloves; adjust quantity for desired heat)
• 2 tbsp Pepper Soup Spice (homemade blend (see description), can buy pre‑made Nigerian pepper soup spice)
• 1 large Onion (sliced)
• 1 cup Basil Leaves (fresh, chopped (used as scent leaves))
• 3 Garlic Cloves (peeled)
• 1 tsp Seasoning Powder (generic all‑purpose seasoning)
• 2 Bay Leaves (whole)
• 6 cups Water (adjust for desired broth thickness)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pepper Blend

   Combine mini bell peppers, habanero, sliced onion, and garlic cloves in a blender. Add a splash of water (about ¼ cup) to help it blend smooth.

   Time: PT5M

2. Season the Chicken

   In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with salt, seasoning powder, and ground zhangsa. Set aside.

   Time: PT3M

3. Boil the Chicken

   Place the seasoned chicken in a large pot, add bay leaves and 6 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 40 minutes until the meat is tender.

   Time: PT40M

   Temperature: Medium simmer

4. Drain Excess Oil

   After the chicken is tender, carefully skim or pour off the excess oil that has risen to the surface.

   Time: PT2M

5. Add the Pepper Blend

   Stir the blended pepper mixture into the pot. Cover and let it simmer on low heat for 5 minutes so the flavors meld.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: Low simmer

6. Finish with Basil Leaves

   Add the chopped basil (scent) leaves, stir gently, and simmer for an additional 1 minute.

   Time: PT1M

   Temperature: Low simmer

7. Serve Hot

   Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately while steaming hot.

   Time: PT0M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

250

Protein

20g

Carbohydrates

5g

Fat

15g

Fiber

1g