African Chicken Peanut Stew

This hearty African chicken peanut stew has been a staple in my kitchen ever since I discovered the rich flavors that define African cuisine. The combination of savory chicken, aromatic spices, and creamy peanut butter creates a dish that's both comforting and exciting, making it perfect for family dinners or special gatherings.

I first made this stew during a cold winter evening when I was craving something different from our usual dinner rotation. The rich aroma filled our home, and my family immediately fell in love with the unique flavor profile. Now it's requested at least twice a month in our household.

Ingredients

• Chicken thighs: brings richness and stays tender throughout cooking
• Peanut butter: creates the signature creamy texture and nutty flavor
• Red bell pepper: adds sweetness and beautiful color contrast
• Tomato sauce: provides acidity to balance the rich peanut butter
• Olive oil: helps brown the chicken and builds flavor foundation
• Onion: creates an aromatic base essential for depth
• Cayenne pepper: adds gentle heat that can be adjusted to taste
• Bouillon powder: enhances the savory notes throughout the stew
• Chicken stock: creates the perfect consistency while adding flavor
• Black pepper: brings subtle spice that complements the peanut butter
• Salt: enhances all other flavors in the dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the chicken:

Wash and thoroughly pat dry the chicken thighs with paper towels. This ensures they'll brown properly rather than steam. Mix salt and black pepper in a small bowl then rub this seasoning generously on both sides of each chicken piece. This initial seasoning is crucial for building layers of flavor.

Brown the chicken:

Pour olive oil into a large skillet over medium high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Place the chicken pieces skin side down first and let them brown undisturbed for about 4 5 minutes until golden. Flip and brown the other side for another 3 4 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside. This step creates deep flavor through the Maillard reaction.

Sauté the aromatics:

In a large soup pot heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and red bell peppers, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. The vegetables should become slightly translucent as they release their flavors into the oil.

Build the base:

Add tomato sauce and spices except salt to the pot. Stir well to combine and let simmer for 2 3 minutes to allow the spices to bloom and release their essential oils. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to incorporate all ingredients thoroughly.

Simmer with chicken:

Return the browned chicken pieces to the pot, gently stirring to partially submerge them in the liquid. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for about 10 minutes. During this time, the chicken will continue cooking while infusing the broth with flavor.

Add peanut butter:

Taste the stew and adjust salt if needed. Add peanut butter to the pot, stirring continuously until completely incorporated into the stew. This is the magic moment when the stew transforms into its signature creamy consistency.

Final simmer:

Continue cooking for another 5 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the stew reaches your desired thickness. The oils from the peanut butter will begin to surface, indicating the stew is ready. The chicken should be completely tender and cooked through.

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The peanut butter is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. I've tried making it with various brands and types, but always come back to a natural, slightly chunky variety that creates the perfect texture. My grandmother taught me that allowing the peanut butter to fully incorporate and simmer is what transforms this from a simple stew to something truly special.

Storage Tips

This stew actually improves with time as the flavors continue to meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water as the stew tends to thicken considerably in the refrigerator. For longer storage, portion the cooled stew into freezer safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop.

Regional Variations

This dish has roots across multiple African countries, with each region adding its own unique twist. In West Africa, particularly Ghana and Nigeria, you'll find versions that might include additional spices like ginger, garlic, and sometimes coriander. Some Senegalese versions incorporate sweet potatoes or other root vegetables. The East African variations might include more turmeric and curry spices. No matter which variation you try, the combination of chicken and peanuts remains the delicious constant at the heart of this cherished dish.

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Serving Suggestions

While this stew is hearty enough to enjoy on its own, it pairs beautifully with various sides. Traditionally, it's served over white rice, which soaks up the flavorful sauce perfectly. For a lower carb option, try cauliflower rice or simply enjoy it in a bowl with a side of steamed vegetables. Some people enjoy adding a dollop of yogurt on top to balance the heat, while others sprinkle chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro for added texture and freshness. For an authentic experience, serve with a side of fried plantains.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What can I serve with African chicken peanut stew?

This dish pairs well with rice, bread, or even millet for an authentic experience. You can also enjoy it with steamed vegetables or yams.

→ Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes, beef or fish can be substituted for chicken. Each variation offers a unique flavor while retaining the hearty taste of the stew.

→ How can I make the stew spicier?

To add more heat, consider including chili peppers, habanero, or adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu, sweet potatoes, or other vegetables, and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

→ Do I need to use peanut butter?

Peanut butter is key to achieving the creamy texture and distinct flavor of this dish. However, you can try almond or cashew butter as an alternative.