Holidays & Special Occasions
Liberian Thanksgiving Roast Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 1.8 kg / 4 lb)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, roughly chopped
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, minced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 stock cube, crumbled
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Method
- Pat the chicken dry and place it in a large bowl or dish.
- Blend or mash together the garlic, onion, Scotch bonnet, oil, paprika, thyme, ground ginger, crumbled stock cube, lime juice, salt, and pepper into a thick marinade.
- Rub the marinade all over the chicken, including under the skin and inside the cavity. Cover and refrigerate overnight for the best flavor.
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan.
- Roast for 20 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 180°C (350°F) and continue roasting for 50-60 minutes, basting every 20 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F) and juices run clear.
- Rest the chicken for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Introduction: Liberia celebrates its own Thanksgiving on the first Thursday of November, a national holiday with roots distinct from the American observance, centered on church services and large family feasts.
Cultural Background: Liberia celebrates its own Thanksgiving on the first Thursday of November, a national holiday with roots distinct from the American observance, centered on church services and large family feasts. A whole seasoned, roasted chicken is a centerpiece of the holiday table, generously rubbed with a spiced marinade and often stuffed with rice, then served alongside rice dishes, greens, and sweet treats as families gather to give thanks.
Tips: Marinating overnight makes a significant difference in flavor depth — don't skip this step if time allows. Basting periodically keeps the skin from drying out and helps it develop a deep golden color.
Variations: Stuff the cavity with a handful of cooked rice mixed with a little of the marinade for extra flavor. Finish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes at the end for extra-crisp skin.
Storage: Refrigerate carved leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat covered in a 160°C (325°F) oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
FAQs:
Q: Is Liberian Thanksgiving the same as the American holiday?
A: No — while the name and general spirit of gratitude are shared, Liberia's Thanksgiving has its own distinct history, date, and traditions, centered on church services and family feasting.
Q: What sides go with this chicken?
A: Rice dishes, potato greens, and coleslaw are all common accompaniments on the Liberian Thanksgiving table.
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