Description
This African Chicken Peanut Stew blends tender chicken thighs, sweet potatoes, and savory spices in a rich, creamy peanut butter broth. Simmered to perfection and served over rice or quinoa, this hearty stew offers a comforting and flavorful meal inspired by traditional West African cuisine.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or quinoa (for serving)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened, creating a flavorful base for the stew.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant to enhance the stew’s aromatic profile.
- Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes, to develop rich flavor and texture.
- Add Vegetables and Spices: Stir in the cubed sweet potato, chopped red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, ground cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper, mixing well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Incorporate Peanut Butter: Remove the stew from heat and stir in the peanut butter until it’s fully incorporated and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, balancing the flavors perfectly.
- Serve: Serve the stew hot over cooked rice or quinoa, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro for a fresh finish.
Notes
- Use natural peanut butter without added sugar or salt for the most authentic taste.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to control the spice level or omit it for a milder stew.
- Sweet potatoes can be substituted with butternut squash or regular potatoes if preferred.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- For a thicker stew, simmer uncovered for the last 5-10 minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: African
