African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe

Experience the rich, comforting flavors of this Chicken Peanut Stew, a creamy, nutty, and hearty dish perfect for cozy nights. Made with tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and a luscious peanut sauce, this stew is a one-pot wonder that satisfies the whole family. Its unique balance of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy notes makes it ideal for weeknight dinners or when you want a meal that feels special without hours of preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pot convenience: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
• Creamy and comforting: Peanut butter adds richness and depth.
• Balanced flavors: Sweet, savory, and mildly spicy in every bite.
• Family-friendly: Mildly spiced, but adjustable for heat lovers.
• Meal prep ready: Stores and reheats beautifully for lunches or dinner leftovers.

Ingredients

Proteins & Veggies

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into cubes
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• 1–2 fresh chili peppers, optional, chopped

Sauce & Seasonings

• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Garnish

• Chopped peanuts
• Fresh cilantro leaves
• Lime wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken cubes and brown on all sides for 4–5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté vegetables: In the same pot, add onion, garlic, bell pepper, carrots, and sweet potato. Cook 4–5 minutes until slightly softened and fragrant.
3. Make the sauce: Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, peanut butter, soy sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, and coriander. Mix until smooth and well combined.
4. Simmer the stew: Return the chicken to the pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes until vegetables are tender and chicken is cooked through.
5. Adjust seasoning: Taste and add salt, black pepper, or extra chili for desired heat.
6. Finish and garnish: Serve hot, topped with chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Pair with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread.

Tips & Variations

• Protein swaps: Try turkey, tofu, or chickpeas for a different protein option.
• Nutty twist: Use almond or cashew butter instead of peanut butter.
• Veggie variations: Add zucchini, spinach, or green beans for extra nutrients.
• Spice control: Adjust chili peppers or paprika to your preferred heat level.
• Make ahead: Prepare the stew up to two days in advance; flavors deepen when refrigerated overnight.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore creaminess.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with steamed rice, fluffy quinoa, or crusty bread.
• Garnish with lime wedges to brighten the flavors.
• Pair with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
• Offer a light, fruity beverage like mango juice or iced tea to complement the richness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Replace chicken with chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How can I thicken the stew if it’s too thin?

Mix 1–2 tablespoons of peanut butter or cornstarch with a small amount of water and stir into the simmering stew until desired consistency is reached.

How spicy is this Chicken Peanut Stew?

The recipe is mildly spiced. You can add more fresh chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase heat to your preference.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, flavors improve after sitting overnight in the fridge. Simply reheat gently and add a splash of broth if needed.

Ready to Make It?

This Chicken Peanut Stew is a comforting, creamy, and flavorful one-pot meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to delight.

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