Name: African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: West African
Ingredients: 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 1/2 tsp ground cayenne pepper (optional); 1 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp ground coriander; 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup natural peanut butter; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 2 cups chopped collard greens or spinach; Juice of 1 lime; Chopped roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

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If you’re craving a dish that packs incredible layers of flavor, easy comfort, and a personal touch, let me introduce you to African Chicken Peanut Stew. This rich, hearty stew is beloved across West Africa and brings together tender chicken, peanut butter, sweet potatoes, and greens all in one satisfying bowl. It’s the kind of meal that quickly becomes a household favorite, thanks to its velvety texture and nutty, soulful taste. Whether you’re new to West African cuisine Main Course.

African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about African Chicken Peanut Stew is how a handful of basic ingredients transform into deep, complex flavors during cooking. Each item plays its part, from the creamy peanut butter to colorful vegetables — they all bring something unique to your pot!

Vegetable oil: This is your flavor foundation for browning the chicken and sautéing the aromatics.
Boneless skinless chicken thighs: Chicken thighs stay juicy and tender, soaking up the peanutty sauce beautifully.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for building flavor in every bite.
Onion: Adds heartiness and a subtle sweetness to the base of the stew.
Garlic cloves: Garlic brings an irresistible fragrance that infuses the entire dish.
Fresh ginger: Just a hint adds zing and warmth that complements the peanut butter perfectly.
Ground cayenne pepper (optional): For those who like it spicy, this gives a gentle kick.
Ground cumin: Earthy cumin deepens the stew’s savory notes.
Smoked paprika: A touch of smokiness adds complex undertones to the base.
Ground coriander: This bright spice perks up the flavor, making each spoonful pop.
Canned diced tomatoes: They add a sweet, tangy depth and help create a gorgeous color in the stew.
Natural peanut butter: The star of the show, peanut butter gives that signature creamy richness.
Chicken broth: Flavorful broth brings everything together, turning the mix into a savory stew.
Sweet potatoes: They add subtle sweetness and velvety texture to balance the spices.
Red bell pepper: For a pop of color and gentle crunch in every bite.
Collard greens or spinach: Greens provide brightness and a nutritional boost right at the end.
Lime juice: A splash of citrus wakes up the flavors, bringing freshness to the finish.
Chopped roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro (optional): These make the perfect garnish for extra crunch and a burst of herbal flavor.

How to Make African Chicken Peanut Stew

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add the oil. Place the chicken chunks in the pot, leaving a bit of space around each for good browning. Let them sear undisturbed for about 4–5 minutes until golden, which locks in flavor and juices. Once browned, remove the chicken and set aside — you’ll return it to the pot soon!

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Using the same pot (don’t wipe it out — all those flavor bits are gold), toss in your chopped onion. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until it softens and begins to turn translucent. Now, stir in the garlic, grated ginger, cayenne, cumin, smoked paprika, and coriander. Let this fragrant mix cook for about a minute, stirring often. It’ll smell absolutely amazing and form the flavor backbone of your African Chicken Peanut Stew.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Peanut Butter

Pour the can of diced tomatoes into the pot, juice and all. Spoon in the peanut butter and give everything a good stir. The peanut butter will melt into the tomato mixture, forming a lush, creamy base. Take a moment to make sure it’s all well combined and silky smooth.

Step 4: Simmer with Chicken and Vegetables

Slowly add the chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the whole pot up to a gentle simmer. Return the browned chicken, along with sweet potatoes and sliced red bell pepper, to the pot. Stir so everything’s evenly distributed, cover, and let it simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes. The chicken will cook through and the sweet potatoes will turn soft and dreamy.

Step 5: Finish with Greens and Lime

Once the chicken is done and the sweet potatoes are tender, add the chopped collard greens or spinach. Stir them in and let them wilt — this only takes a few minutes. Finish with a generous squeeze of fresh lime juice, then taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Your African Chicken Peanut Stew is ready to serve, brimming with flavor and color!

How to Serve African Chicken Peanut Stew

Garnishes

Traditionally, a sprinkle of chopped roasted peanuts adds both crunch and nutty flavor to each bowl. I also love to toss on a handful of fresh cilantro for color and brightness. If you’re feeling fancy, try a swirl of extra lime juice or a mild chili oil for more depth.

Side Dishes

African Chicken Peanut Stew shines when paired with simple sides that soak up the luscious sauce. Fluffy steamed rice is classic and lets the stew’s flavors really pop. Soft flatbread or warm naan also work beautifully for scooping up every last drop. Want something lighter? Serve with a crisp cucumber salad to refresh your palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to wow at dinner time? Try serving the stew in wide shallow bowls to showcase its colorful veggies and garnishes. For an irresistible family-style presentation, set the pot right in the center of the table and let everyone dig in together. Or ladle into smaller ramekins for a tapas-style spread at parties — the bright colors and nutty aroma are always a show-stopper!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover African Chicken Peanut Stew can be cooled and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen as they sit, making this a meal you’ll be excited to revisit.

Freezing

Yes, you can absolutely freeze this stew! Let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for 2 to 3 months. Just know that while the vegetables might soften slightly, the robust flavor will still come through when thawed.

Reheating

Reheating is simple — just warm the stew on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. You can also microwave individual portions. Add a splash of broth or water if it’s thickened up too much, and finish with a fresh squeeze of lime or sprinkle of cilantro to revive the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breast works too, though thighs stay juicier and more flavorful during simmering. Just take care not to overcook the breast so it stays tender.

Is African Chicken Peanut Stew spicy?

It has a gentle, cozy heat if you use the cayenne pepper. For a milder version, simply omit or reduce the cayenne, or leave it out when serving kids or spice-sensitive guests.

What if I have a peanut allergy?

You can substitute almond butter or sunflower seed butter for the peanut butter. The result will be slightly different, but still wonderfully creamy and delicious.

Can I make this stew vegetarian?

Definitely! Just swap out the chicken for canned chickpeas or cubes of tofu, use vegetable broth, and pile in more veggies. The stew will be hearty, protein-rich, and totally satisfying.

What other greens can I use besides collard or spinach?

Kale, Swiss chard, or even tender beet greens are great substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time depending on how sturdy your greens are — spinach wilts quickly, but kale may need a few extra minutes.

Final Thoughts

Give African Chicken Peanut Stew a try, and don’t be surprised if it turns into a new favorite at your table. It’s nourishing, vibrant, and bursting with layers of flavors and textures that everyone will crave. So, gather your ingredients and simmer up some comfort — you’ll make memories with each hearty bowl!

African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe

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4.8 from 20 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Warm, flavorful, and comforting, this African Chicken Peanut Stew is a delicious blend of tender chicken, creamy peanut butter, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner with a touch of exotic flair.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade:

1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
Salt and black pepper to taste

Stew:

1 large onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
1/2 tsp ground cayenne pepper (optional)
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp ground coriander
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1/2 cup natural peanut butter
4 cups chicken broth
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 red bell pepper, sliced
2 cups chopped collard greens or spinach
Juice of 1 lime
Chopped roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Marinate Chicken: Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
Sear Chicken: In a large pot, heat oil and sear chicken until browned. Set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: Sauté onion, garlic, ginger, cayenne, cumin, paprika, and coriander.
Add Ingredients: Stir in tomatoes and peanut butter, then add broth, chicken, sweet potatoes, and bell pepper.
Simmer: Cook for 20–25 minutes until chicken is cooked and potatoes are tender.
Add Greens: Stir in greens and cook until wilted.
Finish and Serve: Add lime juice, adjust seasoning, and serve hot, garnished with peanuts and cilantro.