How to Make Nigerian Chin Chin at Home (Step-by-Step Recipe)
Chin Chin is one of the most common snacks in many west african countries especially. In fact, in Nigeria, chin chin is more than just a snack; it's a tradition. Made from a mix of flour, sugar, butter, and milk.
It's crunchy, sweet, and perfect for several occasions, be it birthdays, weddings, festivals, gatherings, or even as a quick snack for a visitor. Unlock popcorn that is likened to just cinema and Netflix and chill; chin chin is more versatile. It's a one-size-fits-all type of snack. Once cut into bite-sized pieces and deep-fried, it becomes golden brown, crunchy on the outside, and soft on the inside.
For immigrants living outside of Africa, making chin chin at home is one way you can stay connected to the culture that birthed you, especially if you want to introduce your family and friends to authentic African snacks.
In this guide, we’ll explore the step-by-step processes of how to make the Nigerian Chin Chin like a pro. Guess what? You can find all the ingredients you need at Aso Rock Market—your one-stop shop for African groceries in the USA.
Photo by Keesha’s Kitchen
Ingredients You’ll Need
These are the simple ingredients and measurements you need to make the perfect Nigerian Chin Chin:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup butter (softened)
- ½ cup evaporated milk (or regular milk)
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (for that authentic Nigerian flavor)
- A pinch of salt
- Vegetable oil for frying
The Step-by-Step Recipe
- Mix the Dry Ingredients. In a bowl, add the flour, sugar, baking powder, nutmeg, and salt. and mix them thoroughly till well combined.
- Add the Butter. Add the softened butter into the dry ingredient and mix using your hands until it looks like breadcrumbs.
- Add Wet Ingredients. Whisk the egg and milk together in a different bowl. Add the wet ingredient to the dry ingredients and knead gently to form a smooth, non-sticky dough.
- Roll and Cut. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough. Cut into small cubes, strips, diamond shapes, or any desired shape, depending on your preference.
- Fry Until Golden Brown. Heat oil in a deep frying pan. Once hot, fry the cut pieces in small batches until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Cool and Serve. Allow the chin chin to cool completely before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain crunchiness.
Tips for the Perfect Chin Chin
- For extra crunch: Fry on medium heat so the inside cooks while the outside crisps.
- Flavor twist: Add a little cinnamon, vanilla, or coconut milk for variety. If you’re feeling adventurous, read our blog 10 African Spice and Condiment Mixes You Must Try for some inspiration.
- Healthier option: You can bake chin chin in the oven at 350°F until golden brown.
What Next?
Now that you know how to make Nigerian chin chin at home, it’s time to try it for yourself. Gather your family, fry up a batch, and watch everyone smile. And if you’d love to try more tasty african snacks, check out our blog on 10 African Snacks to Brighten Your Day.
At Aso Rock Market Online, we understand that making chin chin is about using the right ingredients; that's why we always provide Nigerians and Africans in the United States with the real groceries that taste just like home. When you shop with us, you’re not just buying ingredients—you’re keeping African traditions alive in your kitchen.