Poulet Bicyclette

What it really is

A whole or portioned free-range chicken grilled over charcoal, a celebrated Burkinabè preparation.

The local chicken is typically split or portioned, seasoned simply and grilled over charcoal. It is served with onion, chilli and a starch or salad.

Poulet bicyclette is a Burkina Faso chicken preparation. The bird is grilled over charcoal, whole or in portions, after simple seasoning; onion and chilli are common accompaniments. Its firmer texture and grilled flavour distinguish the preparation from a soft-braised chicken stew. Seasoning and sauces vary, so this page describes a straightforward charcoal-grilled version.

The chicken may be sold whole for sharing or cut into portions for an individual plate. Charcoal and direct heat give it a browned exterior, while a simple seasoning keeps the bird's flavour central. Name any marinade or sauce rather than assuming it is part of every preparation.

Serve the grilled chicken whole for sharing or cut into portions. Name any marinade and sauce, and list onion, chilli and starch or salad as sides actually provided.

How it's served

• Serve freshly prepared at a temperature appropriate to the dish.
• Regional recipes and household ingredient choices vary.

Serve hot after grilling, either whole for sharing or in portions. Onion, chilli and a starch or salad may accompany the chicken; list the specific sides provided. Charcoal cooking should give a browned exterior while the meat remains fully cooked. If the kitchen marinates the chicken or serves a sauce, describe those additions rather than treating them as part of every version.

How to write it on the menu

• Confirm the kitchen’s ingredients and preparation for each batch before making allergen or dietary claims.

Identify chicken and the charcoal grilling method, then list marinade, sauce and sides when actually used. The basic entity has no declared major allergen; assess sauces separately. Do not use 'free-range' or local-breed claims unless the supplier confirms them.