Name: African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: West African
Ingredients: For the Stew: 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)2 tablespoons vegetable oil1 large onion (diced)3 cloves garlic (minced)1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated)1 red bell pepper (diced)1 sweet potato (peeled and cubed)1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)1/2 cup natural peanut butter (creamy)4 cups chicken broth1 teaspoon ground cumin1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)salt and black pepper to taste2 cups chopped kale or spinach For Garnish: chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro (optional)

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If you love bold, comforting flavors and soul-warming meals, this African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe is about to be your new weeknight favorite. With impossibly tender chicken, creamy peanut butter, vibrant veggies, and a gentle kick of spice, this stew is a delightful journey straight to the heart of West African kitchens. Whether you’re digging in with rice or scooping up bites with soft flatbread, every spoonful delivers the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and nutty. Gather your friends and family—this is a dish best shared!

Ingredients You’ll Need

African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the joys of making African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe is just how simple but magical the ingredient list is. Each item is a building block: from creamy peanut butter for richness, to sweet potatoes for natural sweetness, and those vibrant greens for a nourishing finish.

Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs stay juicy and flavorful, absorbing all that peanut-infused broth.
Vegetable Oil: Just a splash provides the perfect base for sautéing and locking in flavor.
Onion: Diced onion gives a lovely sweetness and depth to the stew.
Garlic: Minced garlic amps up the aroma and brings an authentic kick.
Fresh Ginger: Grated ginger adds warmth and zing that lingers in every bite.
Red Bell Pepper: The color and subtle sweetness of red bell pepper make each bowl shine.
Sweet Potato: Peeled and cubed for tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a hint of earthiness.
Diced Tomatoes: A can of tomatoes (with juices!) brings acidity and body to the sauce.
Natural Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter is the star; for a twist, you can try chunky for added texture.
Chicken Broth: Four cups creates a deeply flavorful, luscious base that carries all the flavors.
Ground Cumin: Adds just the right amount of earthiness and warmth.
Cayenne Pepper: For a gentle heat—adjust more or less depending on your spice preference!
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every ingredient.
Kale or Spinach: Chopped greens stirred in for nourishing color and a fresh finish.
Chopped Peanuts and Fresh Cilantro: Optional, but these garnishes add irresistible crunch and bright flavor.

How to Make African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

Start by heating the oil in a big pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your seasoned chicken pieces, and sauté them until they’re just browned, about 5 to 6 minutes. This step locks in the chicken’s juices and creates a rich foundation for the rest of our African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe. Remove the chicken and set it aside—don’t worry, it’ll come back soon!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Without washing the pot (we want all those lovely caramelized bits!), toss in the onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook everything together for 2 to 3 minutes until you catch that irresistible, fragrant aroma—this is your flavor base building up steam.

Step 3: Add Veggies for Color and Texture

Now, stir in the diced red bell pepper and cubes of sweet potato. Let them mingle in the aromatic mixture for an extra 5 minutes. You’ll see the colors turn vibrant and the veggies start to soften. This step ensures every spoonful of the stew delivers color, texture, and a touch of sweetness.

Step 4: Create the Nutty, Savory Broth

Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices!), add the peanut butter, chicken broth, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Stir until the peanut butter is fully dissolved and the broth looks silky and luscious. Now, return the chicken to the pot so it can finish cooking and soak up that incredible sauce.

Step 5: Slow Simmer for Flavor

Bring your stew to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to let it simmer uncovered for about 25 to 30 minutes. By the end, the chicken should be perfectly tender and the sweet potatoes meltingly soft. Don’t rush this stage—the flavors deepen and the whole house starts to smell amazing.

Step 6: Add Greens and Finish Strong

Finally, toss in the chopped kale or spinach. Simmer for 5 more minutes, just until the greens are wilted and vivid. Give your stew a taste and adjust with more salt, pepper, or extra cayenne if you’re feeling bold. Serve piping hot, topped with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro if you’d like.

How to Serve African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped peanuts brings the perfect crunch and extra nuttiness, while fresh cilantro brightens every bite. For a fun kick, add thinly sliced red chilies or a squeeze of lime juice right before serving—your African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe will look and taste restaurant-worthy!

Side Dishes

This stew is pure comfort served over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or a generous scoop of couscous. For those who love hearty meals, warm flatbread, naan, or fufu are all fantastic for scooping up the rich, nutty sauce. You can’t go wrong—the peanut broth begs to be mopped up!

Creative Ways to Present

Try ladling the stew into individual bowls and topping each with a swirl of yogurt, a scatter of microgreens, or a drizzle of chili oil for color. Present with a platter of different breads or grain options alongside so guests can build their perfect bowl—African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe is wonderfully interactive and fun for family-style dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow any leftovers to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and tuck it into the fridge. African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe actually tastes even better the next day, as all those flavors mingle and intensify. Leftovers will keep beautifully for up to 4 days.

Freezing

This stew freezes like a dream! Portion into freezer-safe containers (leave a little room for expansion) and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to revisit those cozy flavors, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen if needed. Stir occasionally until heated through. If you’re using the microwave, reheat in bursts, stirring each time for even warmth.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breast works well if you prefer a leaner cut, though thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving during simmering. Just be careful not to overcook breast meat, as it dries out faster.

What’s the best peanut butter for African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe?

Natural creamy peanut butter is perfect for creating that lush, savory broth, but if you love little surprises of crunch, give chunky peanut butter a try! Avoid highly sweetened or flavored varieties for the most authentic result.

How spicy is this stew?

The heat level is mellow but noticeable, thanks to the cayenne pepper. You can easily increase or decrease the amount depending on your spice preference. For a kid-friendly version, use just a pinch or omit cayenne entirely.

What vegetables can I swap in if I don’t have sweet potato?

Butternut squash, pumpkin, or even regular potatoes are fantastic alternatives. Don’t be afraid to use what you have—African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe is quite flexible and always delicious!

Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes! As written, the entire recipe is gluten-free, just make sure to check your chicken broth and peanut butter labels for any sneaky additives if you’re cooking for someone with sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. Warm, hearty, and brimming with rich peanut flavor, it’s destined to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Gather your favorite people, make a big pot, and let this stew bring a bit of West African joy to your table!

African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe

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4.6 from 9 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This African Chicken Peanut Stew recipe is a delicious and hearty dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and flavorful peanut sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or to impress guests with its unique blend of spices and textures.

Ingredients

For the Stew:

1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion (diced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated)
1 red bell pepper (diced)
1 sweet potato (peeled and cubed)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
1/2 cup natural peanut butter (creamy)
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
salt and black pepper to taste
2 cups chopped kale or spinach

For Garnish:

chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro (optional)

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Instructions

Heat the oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Sauté until lightly browned, about 5–6 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Sauté aromatics: In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, and ginger, cooking for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the bell pepper and sweet potato and cook for another 5 minutes.
Add remaining ingredients: Add the diced tomatoes, peanut butter, chicken broth, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Stir until the peanut butter is fully incorporated. Return the chicken to the pot.
Simmer: Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes until the chicken is tender and the sweet potatoes are soft.
Finish and garnish: Stir in the chopped kale or spinach and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped peanuts and cilantro before serving.