Creating Spicy Nigerian Chicken Stew is easy if you follow these straightforward steps:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Season with salt and set aside.
2. Sauté Onions: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Cook Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste to the pot. Stir well and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the mixture to reduce and thicken.
5. Season the Stew: Sprinkle in the ground crayfish, ground pepper, cayenne pepper, thyme, and bay leaves. Mix well to combine the flavors.
6. Add Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken pieces into the pot, ensuring they are well-coated with the sauce. Pour in the chicken broth or water.
7. Simmer: Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
8. Taste and Adjust: After simmering, taste the stew and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more salt or pepper if desired.
9. Garnish: If using, sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top before serving.

Following these steps will lead you to a delicious pot of Spicy Nigerian Chicken Stew that is sure to delight everyone at your table.