Poulet Yassa is a beloved Senegalese dish that brings together the bold flavors of caramelized onions, zesty lemon, savory Dijon mustard, and a warm blend of spices. Known for its tangy and slightly sweet flavor, this traditional West African chicken stew is marinated, seared, and simmered until tender and infused with irresistible depth. Served with rice or cauliflower rice, it’s a dish that’s simple to prepare but rich in culture and flavor.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 cup chicken broth

• ¼ cup lemon juice

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper

• 1 tsp bouillon powder

• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)

Directions

1. Prep and Marinate:
   Wash and pat dry chicken. In a bowl, combine chicken, onions, garlic, lemon juice, mustard, paprika, cayenne, bouillon, and salt. Mix well and marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight.

2. Sear the Chicken:
   Remove chicken from marinade (reserve onions and liquid). In a skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high. Brown chicken on both sides for 4–5 minutes per side.

3. Caramelize the Onions:
   Remove chicken from the pan. Add remaining olive oil, onions, and leftover marinade. Cook on low to medium-low for 10 minutes until onions are soft and caramelized.

4. Simmer:
   Return chicken to the pan. Add chicken broth and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes or until chicken is fully cooked through and flavors are blended. Adjust salt to taste.

5. Serve:
   Serve hot with rice, cauliflower rice, or steamed vegetables.

Nutrients (per serving)

• Calories: 403 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 14g

• Protein: 21g

• Fat: 30g

• Saturated Fat: 7g

• Cholesterol: 112mg

• Sodium: 1104mg

• Potassium: 456mg

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 1g

• Vitamin A: 342 IU

• Vitamin C: 7mg

• Calcium: 23mg

• Iron: 1mg

The Origins of Poulet Yassa

This beloved dish hails from the Casamance region of southern Senegal, where citrus and onions are plentiful. It began as a humble home-cooked recipe and quickly spread across Senegal and neighboring countries, becoming a cherished staple in both rural kitchens and urban homes. The word “Yassa” refers to the cooking method involving marinated meat—typically chicken or fish—simmered in a flavorful onion-based sauce. Today, Poulet Yassa is recognized globally as a symbol of Senegalese hospitality, often served during gatherings, celebrations, or simple family meals.

A Perfect Balance of Flavor and Tradition

What makes Poulet Yassa truly remarkable is its balance. It manages to be both bold and subtle, rich yet refreshing. The acidity from the lemon juice cuts through the richness of the chicken and oil, while the sweetness of slowly caramelized onions adds depth and complexity. Dijon mustard introduces a mild sharpness that complements the warm spices—especially the smoked paprika and cayenne pepper—creating a multidimensional flavor profile that evolves with every bite.

This harmony of flavors is not accidental. It’s the result of a well-refined recipe passed down through generations, each cook adding their personal touch while preserving the essence of the dish. The use of simple, accessible ingredients and a straightforward cooking method makes Poulet Yassa incredibly approachable, even for novice cooks.

The Role of the Marinade

A defining feature of Poulet Yassa is the marinating process, which is essential to developing the dish’s deep, penetrating flavor. Chicken is combined with sliced onions, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and spices, then left to marinate for several hours—or ideally overnight. This not only tenderizes the meat but also allows the pungent flavors of lemon and mustard to infuse deeply into every bite.

As the onions soak in the marinade, they soften and absorb the flavors as well, which makes them ideal for caramelizing later during cooking. The transformation from sharp raw onion to golden, jammy sweetness is one of the most satisfying parts of making Poulet Yassa, and it’s what gives the sauce its luxurious body and sweetness.

Searing and Simmering: Depth Through Technique

Once the chicken has absorbed all the flavor of the marinade, it’s seared in oil to develop a golden crust. This step locks in moisture and adds a savory depth through caramelization—also known as the Maillard reaction. The reserved marinade, including the onions and juices, is then cooked down slowly, allowing the onions to caramelize and create a rich, complex sauce.

After the onions have softened and sweetened, the chicken is returned to the pot along with broth, creating a stew-like consistency. Simmering the chicken in this aromatic base ensures that it finishes cooking gently, remaining juicy and tender while blending beautifully with the sauce.

A Nutritious and Satisfying Dish

Poulet Yassa is a hearty dish that satisfies without being overly heavy. A single serving contains around 403 calories and delivers a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. The onions alone provide a surprising amount of nutrition, including antioxidants and prebiotic compounds that support gut health. The dish is naturally gluten-free and low in sugar, and can be made keto- or paleo-friendly by serving it over cauliflower rice or steamed greens instead of traditional white rice.

Additionally, because it’s built around real, whole ingredients—fresh chicken, onions, garlic, lemon, and spices—it’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy comfort food that’s still nourishing and wholesome.

The Joy of Serving Poulet Yassa

This dish is traditionally served with steamed white rice, which soaks up the savory sauce and complements the acidity of the lemon. However, it’s incredibly versatile. Many enjoy it with couscous, quinoa, mashed yams, or low-carb options like cauliflower rice. The flavorful broth and soft onions make excellent companions to a variety of sides, allowing you to adapt the dish to personal preferences or dietary needs.

Poulet Yassa is also a fantastic dish for entertaining. Its intoxicating aroma as it simmers is enough to draw people to the kitchen, and its bold flavor ensures guests will be asking for seconds. It’s a conversation starter, a cultural touchstone, and a culinary centerpiece all in one.

Make-Ahead Friendly and Meal-Prep Approved

One of the best things about Poulet Yassa is how well it keeps. In fact, many believe it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. This makes it a great option for meal prep, batch cooking, or hosting. You can marinate the chicken and onions in advance, cook the dish the day before, and simply reheat it when needed. It also freezes well, making it an excellent addition to your repertoire of freezer-friendly meals.

When reheating, a gentle simmer on the stove or low setting in the oven works best to preserve the chicken’s tenderness and the texture of the onions. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its full flavor.

Cultural Significance in Every Bite

Beyond its delightful taste, Poulet Yassa carries cultural weight. In Senegal, food is more than sustenance—it’s a shared experience. Meals are often eaten communally, with family and friends gathered around a large serving dish, sharing stories and enjoying the moment together. Poulet Yassa, with its approachable ingredients and deep-rooted tradition, reflects the heart of this culture: warmth, connection, and generosity.

Introducing this dish to your table isn’t just about discovering a new flavor—it’s about embracing a culinary tradition that celebrates togetherness and the power of simple, honest food.

Conclusion: A Flavorful Tribute to Senegalese Cuisine

Poulet Yassa is a shining example of how simple ingredients, when treated with care and cultural respect, can create a meal that’s both unforgettable and deeply satisfying. Its bright lemon tang, mellow sweetness from caramelized onions, and rich, savory undertones from spices and mustard all come together in harmony. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly rewarding, and packed with character in every forkful.

Whether you’re a fan of bold global flavors or just looking to add something new to your dinner rotation, Poulet Yassa offers a delicious invitation to explore West African cuisine. It’s comfort food with a story—one worth sharing around your own table.