African Chicken Peanut Stew: A Hearty West African One-Pot Wonder

African Chicken Peanut Stew

Introduction

If you’re searching for a one-pot meal that boasts deep, earthy flavor with a creamy, rich texture, African Chicken Peanut Stew is a must-try. This West African classic is beloved for its combination of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a luxurious peanut-infused broth—a true crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and even better as leftovers.

Served over fluffy rice or with warm flatbread, this stew hits all the right notes: comfort, nutrition, and irresistible flavor in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love African Chicken Peanut Stew

The magic of this stew lies in its unique balance: peanut butter adds richness and depth, tomatoes bring acidity, while aromatics and warming spices provide layers of complexity. It’s naturally gluten-free, highly customizable (add your favorite greens or root veggies), and perfect for weeknight cooking or impressing at gatherings. Plus, leftovers taste even more intense—making it a dish you’ll crave again and again.

Prep Tips for Standout Flavor

Great African Chicken Peanut Stew starts with efficient chopping and prepping. Speed up your veggie prep by using the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper—it’ll save you time and ensure even cuts for a consistent cook. And don’t forget to use a sturdy Bamboo Cutting Boards for Kitchen, Set of 3 to protect your knives and your countertops during prep.

For blending tomatoes or making a smoother stew base, a powerful Ninja BL610 Professional 72 Oz Countertop Blender, Black is ideal. This ensures a silky texture without any chunks, which makes the finished stew incredibly comforting and cohesive.

The Steps to Luscious Chicken and Peanut Goodness

Searing your chicken is key for flavor, so use a reliable nonstick skillet like the SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch—it releases the meat beautifully and is easy to clean afterward. When simmering, keep your stew covered to lock in moisture and intensify flavors.

Adjust the heat and seasoning to your liking; some African versions are fiery with added chili, while others are milder. Add fresh greens like spinach or kale towards the end for brightness and extra nutrition.

Serving and Storing African Chicken Peanut Stew

Serve the stew alongside fluffy rice or a crusty bread for soaking up every drop. To keep leftovers fresh and portable (perfect for lunch!), use Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5 (3.2 Cup). The airtight seal will preserve the flavors, and the microwave-safe design is great for easy reheating.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This recipe yields about 6 generous bowls. Each serving contains protein-packed chicken, healthy fats from the peanut butter, and plenty of vegetables—making it a wholesome, satisfying meal (approx. 430 calories per serving, depending on your ingredient choices and serving method).

Recipe Recap

African Chicken Peanut Stew is a warm, vivid blend of rich peanut notes, bright tomatoes, and hearty chicken. Its flexible, forgiving foundation makes it perfect for improvisation—try it with cashew butter or toss in sweet potatoes for extra body. One taste and it’ll earn a spot in your regular rotation.

Ingredients

– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 2-inch piece fresh ginger, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes, pureed (or use fresh)
– 6 cups chicken broth
– ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
– 1–2 tsp smoked paprika
– ½ tsp cayenne pepper or to taste
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 3 cups chopped greens (spinach, kale, or collards)
– Cooked rice or flatbread, for serving
– Chopped roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch or large Dutch oven over medium-high. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper and sear until browned (about 3–4 minutes per side). Remove chicken and set aside.
  2. To the same pan, add more oil if needed. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add bell pepper and sweet potato; cook for another 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes (pureed with the Ninja BL610 Professional 72 Oz Countertop Blender, Black if using fresh or diced), smoked paprika, and cayenne. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Return seared chicken to the pot, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook uncovered until sweet potatoes are tender and chicken is cooked through (about 20 minutes).
  5. Remove chicken, shred with the Chicken Shredder Tool Twist for Kitchen, Elegant Black or two forks, then return to the stew. Whisk peanut butter with a ladle of hot broth in a bowl, then stir the mixture back into the pot.
  6. Add chopped greens and simmer until wilted (2–3 minutes). Season to taste with salt, pepper, and more cayenne if desired.
  7. Ladle the hot stew into bowls. Garnish with chopped roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro. Serve with cooked rice or flatbread.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Enjoy the comforting, big flavors of African Chicken Peanut Stew—a dish sure to become a favorite for anyone seeking bold, wholesome meals.

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