🥦🥬🥦Efo Riro Stir Fry with Grilled Chicken – Quick, Flavorful & Healthy

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    This isn’t your average Efo Riro. We’re taking this beloved Nigerian spinach stew and giving it a modern twist — turning it into a quick stir-fry that’s loaded with bold flavors and paired with juicy grilled chicken.
      It’s the perfect dish for busy nights when you want something healthy, vibrant, and still rooted in Nigerian culture. Plus, it comes together in less than 30 minutes!

Ingredients You’ll Need
Fresh spinach (or ugu leaves) – chopped
Red + yellow bell peppers – sliced for color & sweetness
1–2 Scotch bonnet (ata rodo) – for that spicy kick
1 medium onion – sliced
2 cloves garlic – minced
1 tablespoon ground crayfish (optional) – adds depth
Seasoning cubes, salt, dried thyme – to taste
2 tablespoons light palm oil (or vegetable oil)

Grilled chicken pieces – thighs, wings, or breast (freshly grilled or leftovers)


How to Make It

1. Prep the Chicken
If using fresh chicken, season with salt, thyme, garlic, and pepper.
Grill until golden brown and juicy. (You can also use leftovers to save time.)

2. Build the Sauce Base
Heat oil in a pan.
Add sliced onions, garlic, and blended/scotch bonnet peppers.
Stir-fry for 3–5 minutes until fragrant.
Mix in crayfish, seasoning cube, and thyme.

3. Toss in the Chicken
Add grilled chicken to the sauce.
Coat well so the meat soaks up all that spicy flavor.

4. Add the Greens
Stir in the chopped spinach/ugu.
Cook for 2–3 minutes — just enough to wilt but keep the color vibrant.

5. Serve Hot

Pair your Efo Riro stir-fry with:
Steamed rice
Boiled yam
Fried or ripe plantain
Or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option!


Cooking Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
Don’t overcook the spinach — you want it bright and fresh.
Swap spinach with kale if you’re outside Nigeria.

Why You’ll Love This Dish 

Fast & healthy – ready in 30 minutes.
Bold flavors – spicy, savory, and smoky.
Versatile – works with chicken, fish, or even tofu.
Cultural comfort food – Efo Riro with a fresh twist!

This Efo Riro stir-fry with grilled chicken is the perfect balance of tradition and modern convenience. It’s fast, colorful, nutritious, and brings the rich taste of Nigeria straight to your table.

     If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to follow me for more delicious Nigerian and African food inspiration!

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