Suya-Spiced Chicken Plantain Boats

I am obsessed with plantains. They are incredibly versatile, and having a few on hand is never a bad idea. Whether they're fried, baked, mashed, or stuffed, plantains can easily become the foundation of a quick meal or a show-stopping dish.

Plantain boats are one of those recipes that naturally invite creativity. A simple base of ripe plantains is transformed into something bold, layered, and deeply satisfying. In this version, leftover rotisserie chicken is reimagined into a 30-minute dish that draws inspiration from Caribbean plantain traditions and the peanut-forward, spice-driven flavors found across parts of Africa.

As a Zimbabwean, I grew up with dishes like huku nedovi, where peanuts play a central role in creating richness and depth. While this recipe is not a traditional Zimbabwean dish, the combination of peanuts and warming spices immediately feels familiar to me. That same appreciation for nutty, savory flavors is part of what drew me to suya (yaji) seasoning, a West African spice blend known for its smoky, bold character and use of ground peanuts.

Across the Caribbean and Latin America, plantains are a foundational ingredient used in both sweet and savory preparations. Their natural sweetness makes them ideal for balancing spice, acidity, and richness. Plantains are also enjoyed throughout many African countries, often fried, roasted, or served alongside stews and grilled meats, making them a natural bridge between the influences behind this dish.

The filling combines shredded rotisserie chicken with suya seasoning, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and aromatics, then is lightly bound with peanut butter for texture and cohesion. Quick-pickled red onions provide brightness and acidity, while crispy chicken skin is repurposed as a crunchy topping that reinforces the roasted flavor of the bird. A final sprinkle of crushed peanuts echoes the nutty notes in the seasoning and ties the dish together.

Designed for speed, flexibility, and maximum flavor, these Suya-Spiced Chicken Stuffed Plantain Boats show how a handful of pantry ingredients and leftovers can be transformed into something vibrant, visually striking, and deeply satisfying in under 30 minutes.

Yield: 4 (1 boat per person)

Author: Dontmissmyplate

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Suya-Spiced. Chicken Plantain Boats

Sweet fried plantains stuffed with suya-spiced rotisserie chicken, crunchy peanuts, crispy chicken skin, and tangy quick-pickled red onions. This easy 30-minute recipe brings together bold flavors, contrasting textures, and a creative use for leftover chicken.

Prep time: 10 MinCook time: 20 MinTotal time: 30 Min

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Ingredients

• 4 ripe yellow plantains with black spots (not overly ripe to hold structure)
• Peanut oil, for frying (shallow fry)
• Crispy chicken skin, from rotisserie chicken
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (mostly thigh/leg meat, some breast)
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp suya spice
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tsp tomato paste
• ½ tsp chicken boullion paste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1-2 tbsp peanut butter
• 2–3 tbsp to ½ cup water (adjust if chicken is more or less dry)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp chili flakes, to taste (optional)
• 2 tbsp crushed roasted peanuts (optional garnish)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
• Pickled red onions (store bought or homemade, optional garnish)

Pickled Red Onions:

• ½ large red onion
• ½ cup vinegar
• ½ cup hot water
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1-2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp black peppercorns
• 1 tbsp grenadine

Instructions

1. In a bowl or jar, combine the vinegar, hot water, sugar, salt, bay leaf, peppercorns, and grenadine. Add the sliced red onion and stir well. Set aside while you prepare the remaining ingredients.
2. Place the chicken skin in a cold skillet and set over medium heat. Cook for 5–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until crisp and golden brown. Transfer to a plate and set aside. You can chop finely or into shards.
3. Heat at least 1 inch of peanut oil in a skillet over medium to medium-low heat. Fry the peeled plantains for 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and softened. Remove from the oil and let rest for 3–5 minutes.
4. Using a sharp knife, cut a lengthwise slit down the center of each plantain, being careful not to cut all the way through.
5. Using the back of a spoon, gently press and widen the opening to create a deep cavity for the filling. If necessary, trim a thin slice from the bottom so the plantains sit flat.
6. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 2 minutes, until softened.
7. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
8. Stir in the tomato paste and boullion paste. Cook for 1–2 minutes, until the mixture darkens slightly and becomes fragrant.
9. Add the shredded chicken, suya spice, paprika, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
10. Add the peanut butter and 2–3 tablespoons, or up to half a cup of water. Mix until evenly coated. Cook for 2–3 minutes, until thick, moist, and slightly sticky.
11. Add the beans and Worcestershire sauce, and finish for another 1–2 minutes.
12. Spoon the chicken filling generously into each plantain boat, in portions.
13. Top with the pickled red onions, crispy chicken skin, crushed roasted peanuts, and chopped parsley.
14. Serve warm.

Notes

• If filling looks dry: add 1 tbsp water at a time until glossy
• Plantains must be ripe (yellow with black spots) for softness
• Don’t overfill peanut butter, it should bind, not dominate
• Worcestershire replaces soy sauce in this version for deeper, rounder umami
• The final dish should look layered, not saucy
• Texture contrast is essential: crispy skin + soft plantain + acidic onions

I am not a certified nutritionist and any nutritional information on dontmissmyplate.com should only be used as a general guideline.

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One-Pot Chicken Pilau (Zanzibar-Style East African Rice)

Pilau is more than just a rice dish, it’s a reflection of centuries of trade, culture, and shared culinary traditions. With roots linked to Persian and Indian cooking, pilau traveled along ancient trade routes to East Africa, where it became a staple in places like Kenya, Zanzibar, and Uganda. Across these regions, the common thread is a love for deeply spiced, one-pot rice dishes that bring people together for both everyday meals and celebrations.

In Zanzibar, famously known as the “Spice Island”, this connection is especially strong. The island’s history as a hub for cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, and other spices is reflected in the bold, aromatic character of pilau itself.

This version brings those flavors into a practical, weeknight-friendly format. Fragrant basmati rice is layered with caramelized onions, garlic, ginger, and a warming blend of cumin, cardamom, black pepper, cinnamon, and bay leaf. Bone-in chicken cooks directly with the rice, allowing every grain to absorb the rich, spiced broth.

I first experienced pilau in Zanzibar during a cooking class at a beachfront hotel, where the scent of spices filled the air and the ocean sat just steps away. This recipe is inspired by that moment—simple, comforting, and deeply flavorful.

Whether for a weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering, this one-pot chicken pilau is a go-to.

Yield: 4-6

Author: Dontmissmyplate

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Zanzibar-Style One-Pot Chicken Pilau

A fragrant East African-inspired chicken pilau featuring spiced rice, caramelized onions, and tender bone-in chicken, all cooked in one pot for a rich and comforting meal.

Prep time: 15 MinCook time: 35 MinTotal time: 50 Min

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Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 4 chicken drumsticks
• 2 tbsp chicken spice
• 2 cups basmati rice, rinsed
• 2 large red onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste (or 2 tsp each minced)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp Royco Usavi Mix (chicken)
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp ground cardamom
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 cups water
• 2 tsp bouillon paste
• ½–1 Knorr chicken bouillon cube, to taste
• 3 tbsp ghee or cooking oil
• Salt and lemon, to taste
• Optional: 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, for deglazing
• Optional: Lemon wedge and parsley to garnish and serve

Instructions

1. Pat the chicken dry, lightly coat with oil, and season with chicken spice, salt, and pepper. Let sit for at least 5 minutes.
2. Heat at least 2 tbsp ghee or oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown chicken 2–3 minutes per side, then remove and set aside.
3. In the same pot, sauté onions until soft (2–3 minutes), or longer for a golden color and deeper flavor. Add ginger-garlic paste, Royco Usavi Mix, bouillon paste, and pilau spices. Stir 30–60 seconds until fragrant and cook an additional minute to activate the aromatics.
4. Stir in tomato paste and optionally the Worcestershire sauce to lift flavors from the bottom of the pot.
5. Stir in the rinsed rice, coating it evenly in the spice mixture for about 1 minute.
6. Pour in the water and mix in the bouillon cube. Add cinnamon stick and bay leaves, then nestle chicken pieces on top of the rice. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
7. Check your pot. If you notice pooling, slightly open the lid and cook an additional 5–10 minutes.
8. Squeeze fresh lemon over the rice and chicken and adjust salt to taste.
9. Gently fluff the rice, garnish with parsley and serve with a mixed salad (kachumbari with avocado).

Notes

• Rice texture: A quick rinse is enough, no soaking needed. Keep the lid closed during simmering to retain steam for fluffy rice.
• Chicken skin: Browning adds flavor; optional but recommended!
• Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

500

Fat (grams)

17 g

Carbs (grams)

50 g

Fiber (grams)

3 g

Protein (grams)

28 g

I am not a certified nutritionist and any nutritional information on dontmissmyplate.com should only be used as a general guideline.

www.dontmissmyplate.com/how-to-cook/2026/3/28/zanzibar-style-one-pot-chicken-pilau

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Huku ne Dovi (Zimbabwean Peanut Chicken Stew)

Huku ne dovi, or Zimbabwean peanut butter chicken stew, is a hearty dish made with chicken simmered in a rich peanut butter sauce alongside tomatoes, vegetables, hot chilies, and sometimes bell peppers. The result is a beautiful balance of savory, nutty, and mildly spicy flavors. While often served as a thick stew alongside sadza, rice, or bread, it can also be prepared more like a soup, with the addition of leafy greens, vegetables, and tubers.

For those unfamiliar with the combination of chicken and peanut butter, it may sound unusual at first. Yet throughout much of Africa, groundnuts (peanuts) are a staple ingredient used to enrich sauces, soups, and stews. Similar pairings can also be found in parts of Southeast Asia, where peanuts are used to add richness and depth to savory dishes. In Zimbabwe, peanut butter gives huku ne dovi its distinctive flavor and velvety texture, creating a sauce that coats each piece of chicken beautifully. Beyond its flavor, peanut butter is also an important source of protein and is often used to enrich vegetable dishes or provide nourishment when meat is scarce or unavailable.

Growing up, huku ne dovi was not an everyday meal in my household, which made it feel even more special whenever it appeared on the table. It was the kind of dish that brought warmth and comfort, especially during the cooler months, and one that was best enjoyed with a generous serving of sadza, rice, or fresh bread to soak up every last bit of sauce.

One of the secrets to a great peanut butter chicken stew is finding the right balance between the richness of the peanut butter and the heat of the chilies. Neither should overpower the other. Instead, the gentle sweetness of the peanuts softens the spice, creating layers of flavor that develop as the stew simmers. This recipe is also highly adaptable. Some people prefer the chicken simmered until it becomes tender and nearly falls off the bone, allowing it to absorb the flavors of the sauce. Others enjoy chicken with a firmer texture and crisp, browned skin. If you prefer the latter, simply roast or brown the chicken separately and add it back to the stew just before serving.

The consistency of the sauce can be adjusted to suit your preference as well. A slightly thinner sauce is wonderful spooned over rice, while a thicker stew pairs beautifully with sadza or bread, allowing the sauce to cling to every bite. For the best flavor, use bone-in chicken pieces whenever possible and take the time to brown them before simmering. This simple step adds depth and richness to the finished dish. Allow the stew to cook gently rather than rushing the process, giving the flavors time to meld together and the sauce time to develop its signature richness.

Whether you're discovering Zimbabwean cuisine for the first time or recreating a familiar favorite, this is a dish that showcases the comforting simplicity and bold flavors that make home cooking easy, and memorable.

Yield: 6-8

Author: Dontmissmyplate

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Huku ne Dovi (Spicy Zimbabwean Peanut Chicken Stew)

Zimbabwean Peanut Chicken Stew, or *huku ne dovi*, is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, smooth peanut butter, vibrant vegetables, spicy chilies, and fragrant spices.

Prep time: 15 MinCook time: 40 MinTotal time: 55 Min

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Ingredients

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 whole chicken, cleaned and cut into pieces
• 2 tablespoons chicken spice (I used Hind’s)
• 2 green onions
• 1 large hot chilli pepper
• 1/2 large yellow onion
• 1/2 cup mirepoix (chopped onion, carrots and celery)
• 1-2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon Royco Usavi Mix
• 3 chicken bouillon cubes
• 1/3 cup red wine
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 3 sweet bell peppers
• 1/3 cup peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ginger
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1 teaspoon herb blend (I used basil and thyme)
• 3 cups water
• 3 bay leaves
• 2-3 tablespoons cornstarch or flour (optional)

Instructions

1. Season the chicken with all-purpose chicken spice, then brown it in a Dutch oven or non-stick pan over medium to medium-high heat. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside.
2. In the same pot, add the remaining oil and butter. Stir in the mirepoix, onions, bouillon cubes, garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, and Royco Usavi Mix. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until caramelized. Deglaze the pot with the wine, scraping up any browned bits to incorporate all the flavors.
3. Next, add the tomatoes, peppers, chili peppers, cumin, ginger, and coriander. Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom and the vegetables to soften.
4. Return the chicken to the pot and pour in the water. Add more water if you prefer a thinner stew or soup-like consistency. Ensure as much of the chicken as possible is submerged to help it cook evenly. Simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, mix the peanut butter with some of the hot stew liquid to thin it out. Stir in the tomato paste, then add the mixture to the pot, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
6. Add the bay leaves and continue simmering for another 15-20 minutes.
7. Optional: After 5-10 minutes, if you don’t want the chicken to fall off the bone, you can remove it and let the stew continue cooking separately to allow the flavors to come together.
8. To thicken the sauce: Remove the chicken, then mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch or flour with hot liquid from the pot to create a smooth slurry. Stir the slurry back into the pot, mixing well to activate the thickening. Continue cooking until the desired consistency is achieved.
9. Season to taste, return the chicken to the pot, and serve hot with yellow rice or your preferred starch.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

438

Fat (grams)

20.3 g

Sat. Fat (grams)

4.8 g

Carbs (grams)

62.1 g

Fiber (grams)

18.5 g

Protein (grams)

15.6 g

I am not a certified nutritionist and any nutritional information on dontmissmyplate.com should only be used as a general guideline.

https://www.dontmissmyplate.com/how-to-cook/2025/1/22/huku-ne-dovi-spicy-zimbabwean-peanut-chicken-stew?rq=huku

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Chicken and Chorizo Spanish Rice

If you enjoy Spanish cuisine and are craving some comfort food, try out this one-pan recipe! It’s a spin on Spanish rice taken to another flavor level with the addition of chorizo sausage and chicken to make it extra filling and delicious, seasoned with paprika, cumin, black pepper, parsley, coriander, onion salt, and garlic.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups basmati rice

2 chorizo sausages

3-4 cups chicken broth

1/2 cup tomato sauce

1/2 cup Marion’s siracha and lime marinade (mild chili sauce of your choice)

1/4 cup chickpeas

1/4 cup raisins

6- 8 pieces of chicken (breasts, drumsticks, thighs, or a mix of all 3)

1/2 cup onions, chopped

2 tablespoons garlic, finely minced

1 tablespoon butter

2 tablespoon olive oil

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon lemon juice

2 tablespoons black pepper

2 teaspoons cumin

1 teaspoon chipotle seasoning

2 teaspoons coriander

2 tablespoons onion salt

2 tablespoons paprika

2 tablespoons oregano (fresh or dried, I used parsley as an alternative)

Instructions

Step  1

Sauté the onions and garlic in the butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil until flagrant. Add half the spices - 1 tablespoon black pepper, 1 tablespoon onion salt, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon chipotle, 1 tablespoon paprika, and 1 tablespoon oregano. Cook for about 1 minute, do not burn.

Step 2

In a bowl, soak the chicken in the vinegar and lemon. Season with the remaining spices (1 tablespoon black pepper, 1 tablespoon onion salt, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 tablespoon paprika,  and 1 tablespoon oregano) and olive oil. Set aside.

Step 3

Chop up the chorizo and brown on medium low heat along with the chicken, cook for about 5 minutes. Move to another plate, keep the juices and others bits in the pan.

Step 4

Add the washed and drained rice to the pan and brown, cook for about 3 minutes. Pour in the tomato sauce, chili sauce, raisins, chickpeas, and 3 cups of broth. Simmer for about 5 minutes, then add the chicken and chorizo back in.

Step 5

Simmer with a lid on on low heat for about 25 minutes until there is no more liquid. After about 15 minutes, add the extra cup of water if you think more cooking time will be required for the rice to be fully cooked. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and oregano if necessary.

Serves 4.

Tip: Make sure you use a non-stick, deep pan to avoid spillage and rice getting stuck to the bottom.

Easy Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Why Chicken Tenders Always Work

Chicken tenders are one of those rare foods that everyone agrees on. They’re easy to eat, quick to cook, and perfect for sharing—whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a full-on game day spread. Unlike wings, tenders are meatier, less messy, and easier to portion, which makes them ideal for feeding a crowd or serving alongside multiple sides.

Buffalo Flavor, Made Simple

Buffalo sauce brings that unmistakable tangy heat that people crave on game day. It’s bold without being complicated and pairs beautifully with chicken. Baking the tenders instead of frying keeps them juicy while cutting down on oil and cleanup, making this recipe approachable and repeatable. A light layer of melted mozzarella adds just enough creaminess to balance the heat without overpowering the sauce.

Perfect for Game Day or Anytime

These baked buffalo chicken tenders are made to fit any occasion. Serve them as a game day appetizer with dipping sauces, or turn them into an easy lunch or dinner with classic sides like mashed potatoes, peas, coleslaw, or a simple salad. They reheat well, scale easily, and deliver big flavor with minimal effort—exactly the kind of recipe people come back to again and again.

Yield: 4

Author: Dontmissmyplate

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Easy Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Juicy baked buffalo chicken tenders coated in tangy sauce and finished with melted mozzarella for an easy, no-fry lunch or dinner.

Prep time: 10 MinCook time: 25 MinTotal time: 35 Min

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Ingredients

Homemade Buffalo Sauce:

• 1/2 cup hot sauce (e.g. Frank’s RedHot–style)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon honey

Tenders:

• 2 pounds chicken tenders
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2/3 cup buffalo sauce
• 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Chives, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Buffalo Sauce

1. Add all ingredients to a small saucepan over low heat.
2. Whisk gently until the butter melts and the sauce is smooth.
3. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Use immediately or cool and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Chicken Tenders

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Lightly grease or line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Place the chicken tenders in a large bowl. Squeeze lemon juice over the chicken and toss gently. This helps neutralize any raw chicken smell and brightens the flavor.
3. Add thyme, parsley, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Toss until the tenders are evenly coated.
4. Transfer the chicken to a deep baking dish. Pour the buffalo sauce over the tenders, turning to coat evenly. Let sit for 10 minutes to absorb flavor.
5. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes.
6. Remove from the oven, sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the tenders, and return to the oven. Bake for another 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
7. Garnish with chopped chives if desired. Serve hot with ranch or blue cheese dressing, celery sticks, or your favorite sides.

Notes

Optional Game Day Tips

• Double the recipe easily for parties
• Serve with toothpicks for easy snacking
• Add crushed red pepper or hot honey for extra heat

Nutrition Facts

Calories

420

Fat (grams)

18 g

Carbs (grams)

8 g

Sugar (grams)

3 g

Protein (grams)

45 g

I am not a certified nutritionist and any nutritional information on dontmissmyplate.com should only be used as a general guideline.

https://www.dontmissmyplate.com/how-to-cook/2020/4/3/w1qk52v0t2l7ap683adudyziimh8nc

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How to Make These Buffalo Chicken Tenders in the Air Fryer

If you’d rather skip the oven, these buffalo chicken tenders adapt easily to the air fryer with minimal changes.

After seasoning the chicken and coating it in buffalo sauce, preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil and arrange the tenders in a single layer, working in batches if needed. Air fry for 10 minutes, flip, then cook for another 6–8 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the tenders and return them to the air fryer for 1–2 minutes, just until the cheese melts. Garnish with chopped chives and serve immediately.

Buffalo Sauce Variations

One of the best things about buffalo chicken is how easy it is to customize the heat level.

• Mild: Use less hot sauce and add a little extra butter or a drizzle of honey to soften the heat.

• Classic: Stick with a traditional buffalo sauce for a balanced tangy, buttery flavor.

• Extra Hot: Add cayenne pepper or use a hotter pepper sauce for more kick.

These variations make it easy to adjust the recipe for different crowds or spice preferences on game day.

Make-Ahead and Reheat Tips

These buffalo chicken tenders are great for entertaining because much of the prep can be done ahead.

You can season the chicken and toss it in buffalo sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator and bake or air fry just before serving.

To reheat, warm the tenders in the air fryer at 350°F for 4–6 minutes or in the oven at 375°F for 8–10 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can soften the texture.