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Holidays & Special Occasions

Festival-Style Whole Chicken Kedjenou (Kedjenou de Fete)

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25 min
Prep
70 min
Cook

Ingredients

  • 1 whole chicken (about 1.8 kg / 4 lb), left whole
  • 4 tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 onions, sliced
  • 1 eggplant, cubed
  • 2 bell peppers, sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp ground ginger
  • 2 chili peppers, whole
  • 3 tbsp palm oil
  • Salt, to taste

Method

  1. Combine the whole chicken with all vegetables, spices and oil in the pot without adding water.
  2. Cover tightly and place over low heat.
  3. Cook for 60-75 minutes, shaking the covered pot occasionally, until the chicken is fully tender and vegetables are soft.
  4. Check the chicken is cooked through at the thickest part before serving.
  5. Present the whole chicken in the pot at the table, family-style, with rice or attieke.

Introduction: A grander, whole-bird version of everyday kedjenou, prepared for celebrations and family gatherings with a richer spice blend and served as the centerpiece of a festive spread.

Cultural Background: A grander, whole-bird version of everyday kedjenou, prepared for celebrations and family gatherings with a richer spice blend and served as the centerpiece of a festive spread.

Tips: A whole chicken needs a longer cook time than cut pieces, so be patient and avoid opening the lid too often. Double-check doneness at the joint before serving, since whole-bird cooking times vary by chicken size.

Variations: Stuff the chicken cavity with extra onion and garlic for deeper flavor at celebrations.

Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days; portion the chicken before storing for easier reheating.

Reheating: Reheat gently in a covered pot over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.

Nutrition: Approx. per serving: 450 kcal, 36 g protein, 15 g carbohydrate, 28 g fat

FAQs:

Q: How is this different from the everyday kedjenou?

A: This version uses a whole chicken, a larger quantity of vegetables and spices, and a longer cook time, making it suited to feeding a gathered family rather than an everyday portion.

Q: What occasions is this served at?

A: It's commonly prepared for baptisms, weddings and other family celebrations as a festive centerpiece dish.

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