African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe

If you are craving a comforting dish that’s bursting with rich, nutty flavors and a delightful hint of spice, then this African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe is just what you need. This heartwarming stew combines juicy, tender chicken with a luscious peanut butter base, accented by fresh vegetables and fragrant spices, creating a soulful meal that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re new to African cuisine or a seasoned fan, this recipe is simple to follow and deeply satisfying — a true celebration of vibrant flavors in every hearty spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role, bringing together a harmony of taste, texture, and color that makes this stew come alive. From the savory chicken to the creamy peanut butter and the bright red bell pepper, every element adds something special to this dish.

• 2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces: Choose thighs or drumsticks for juicy, flavorful meat that holds up well during cooking.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Needed for browning the chicken and sautéing aromatics to develop rich flavors.
• 1 large onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth once softened and caramelized.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a pungent warmth and aroma that’s essential in African cooking.
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated: Offers a bright, zesty note that lifts the stew.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced: Adds crunch and vibrant color alongside subtle sweetness.
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes: Provides acidity and a juicy base for the stew.
• 1 cup unsweetened peanut butter: The star ingredient that creates a creamy, nutty richness unique to this dish.
• 4 cups chicken broth: Builds the stew’s flavorful liquid, ensuring tender meat and melding all ingredients together.
• 2 bay leaves: Infuse the stew with an earthy, herbal layer during simmering.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings smoky undertones and a warm hue.
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adds a gentle heat that can be adjusted to taste.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors.
• Chopped fresh cilantro: Provides a fresh, vibrant finish at the end.
• Cooked rice or couscous: Perfect for soaking up every bit of the luscious stew.

How to Make African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Chicken

Begin by seasoning your chicken pieces generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This seasoning will develop flavor and create a delicious crust during browning. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, then brown the chicken well on all sides. This step seals in the juices and adds an extra layer of depth to your stew. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside for the next steps.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Using the same pot, add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté these aromatics until the onions turn soft and translucent, releasing their natural sweetness and creating a fragrant base. Don’t rush this step — flavor builds here.

Step 3: Add Peppers and Tomatoes

Next, stir in your diced red bell pepper and canned tomatoes. Cook everything together for a few minutes until the peppers soften slightly and the tomatoes start releasing their juices. This combination adds brightness and balances the richness to come.

Step 4: Incorporate Peanut Butter

Now for the magic: stir in the peanut butter and mix it thoroughly with the veggies. Cook this mixture for 2 to 3 minutes while stirring constantly to prevent sticking. You’ll notice the stew starting to thicken and develop a creamy, velvety texture. This peanut base is what truly sets this recipe apart.

Step 5: Return the Chicken and Add Broth

Return the browned chicken pieces to the pot, nestling them into the peanut mixture. Pour in the chicken broth along with the bay leaves and cayenne pepper. Give it a good stir to combine all the flavors and start bringing the stew together.

Step 6: Simmer Until Tender

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let the stew simmer gently for 45 minutes to an hour. During this time, the chicken will become tender and infused with the rich peanut sauce. Stir occasionally to keep everything well incorporated and prevent sticking.

Step 7: Final Seasoning Touches

Once the chicken is cooked through, taste your stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt, black pepper, or cayenne pepper if you want it spicier. Remove the bay leaves before serving to avoid any bitter bites.

How to Serve African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over each serving just before digging in. The fresh herb’s green color brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh, slightly citrusy note that contrasts beautifully with the creamy stew.

Side Dishes

This stew is traditionally served over fluffy cooked rice or light couscous. These sides act like perfect sponges, soaking up every drop of the luscious sauce. You can also try it with warm flatbread for a fun, hands-on way to scoop the stew.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive dinner, serve the stew in individual bowls with a small mound of rice or couscous artistically placed to one side. Garnish with cilantro and a wedge of lime for a burst of acidity, or add a dollop of plain yogurt on top for a cool contrast to the gentle heat in the stew.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This African Chicken Peanut Stew keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the flavors and moisture, then simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

Freezing

If you want to make this meal ahead or save leftovers for longer, freezing works well. Transfer cooled stew into a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without significant loss in flavor or texture.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen stew overnight in the refrigerator for best results. Warm it gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until heated through. Avoid high heat to keep the peanut butter from separating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of dark meat for this African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken breast, but it tends to dry out more quickly than thighs or drumsticks during simmering. If you prefer breast meat, watch the cooking time carefully and consider adding it later in the cooking process to keep it tender.

Is peanut butter the same as ground peanuts in this recipe?

Peanut butter is recommended because it dissolves smoothly into the sauce, creating a creamy texture. Ground peanuts can be used but may result in a chunkier consistency and sometimes require extra stirring and cooking time to blend fully.

How spicy is this stew?

The heat level is mild to medium, thanks to the optional cayenne pepper. You can adjust the amount to your preference, or omit it entirely if you want no heat. The richness of peanut butter balances the spiciness beautifully.

Can I make this stew vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The peanut butter sauce works well with plant-based ingredients too.

What should I serve with African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe for a complete meal?

Aside from rice or couscous, a simple side salad or steamed greens like kale or spinach complements this stew nicely. The meal is balanced and filling on its own but fresh greens brighten the plate and add a nutritious touch.

Final Thoughts

This African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe is truly a gem — a deeply comforting and flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The ease of preparation combined with the unforgettable taste makes it a wonderful addition to your recipe collection. I can’t recommend it enough; once you try it, it will become a beloved favorite you’ll want to share with friends and family again and again.

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