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This hearty African chicken peanut stew has been a revelation to my weeknight dinner routine, combining simple pantry staples with rich, complex flavors that transport you straight to West Africa. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and creamy peanut butter creates a dish that's both comforting and exotic.
I first made this stew during a particularly cold January evening when I was craving something different yet comforting. The aroma that filled my kitchen was so enticing that this has become my go-to recipe whenever I want to impress friends without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs: The dark meat stays tender and juicy through the cooking process while adding richer flavor than breast meat
- Peanut butter: Creates the signature creamy texture and nutty flavor that defines this traditional African dish
- Tomato sauce: Provides acidity to balance the richness of the peanut butter
- Red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and vibrant color to the stew
- Cayenne pepper: Brings the perfect amount of heat that warms without overwhelming
- Bouillon powder: Intensifies the savory depth of the stew
- Chicken stock: Forms the flavorful base that ties all ingredients together
- Olive oil: For browning the chicken and sautéing the vegetables to develop deep flavor
- Onion: Forms part of the aromatic base that builds the foundation of flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the chicken:
- Wash and thoroughly pat dry the chicken thighs with paper towels this ensures proper browning. Season generously with salt and black pepper on both sides making sure to massage the seasonings into the meat.
- Brown the chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin side down first and cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes until they develop a golden brown crust. Flip and brown the other side for 3 minutes then set aside.
- Create the flavor base:
- Add fresh olive oil to a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and red bell peppers sautéing for about 5 minutes until the onions become translucent and peppers soften. This aromatic base will infuse the entire stew with flavor.
- Build the stew:
- Add the tomato sauce cayenne pepper and bouillon powder to the sautéed vegetables stirring continuously to prevent burning. Let this mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes which allows the spices to bloom and release their essential oils.
- Combine components:
- Pour in the chicken stock and stir to incorporate all ingredients. Return the browned chicken pieces to the pot gently submerging them in the liquid. Simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through.
- Incorporate peanut butter:
- This is the crucial step that transforms the dish. Add the peanut butter to the pot and stir gently but thoroughly until it completely dissolves into the stew creating a silky smooth texture. Continue cooking for 5 more minutes until the stew thickens noticeably.
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The peanut butter is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. I once tried to substitute almond butter when I ran out of peanut butter and while still delicious it lacked that distinctive nutty richness that makes this stew so special. My family noticed immediately and requested I stick to the classic recipe moving forward.
Storing and Reheating
This stew actually improves with time as the flavors continue to develop. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating gently warm on the stovetop over medium low heat adding a splash of chicken stock if needed to restore the original consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent the bottom from scorching.
Customizing Your Stew
The beauty of this traditional recipe lies in its adaptability. While chicken thighs provide the best flavor and texture you can substitute with chicken breasts bone in chicken pieces beef cubes or even firm fish fillets for different variations. Vegetarians can replace the meat with chickpeas and extra vegetables like sweet potatoes or eggplant while using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
Serving Suggestions
In West Africa this stew is traditionally served over rice which beautifully absorbs the rich sauce. For a lower carb option serve over cauliflower rice or alongside roasted vegetables. I like to garnish with fresh cilantro chopped peanuts and thinly sliced green onions for added texture and brightness. A side of steamed greens like collards or spinach complements the richness of the stew perfectly.
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Try this hearty African peanut stew to enjoy a taste of West Africa in your own home.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Yes, you can easily substitute the chicken with beef or fish for equally delicious results. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your choice of protein.
- → How spicy is this peanut stew?
The recipe has a mild to medium heat level with 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. You can adjust the spiciness by adding more cayenne, fresh chili, or habanero peppers to suit your taste preferences.
- → Can I use water instead of chicken stock?
Yes, water can be substituted for chicken stock, but you'll need to adjust the seasonings since stock provides additional flavor. Consider adding extra bouillon powder or spices to compensate.
- → Is this dish keto-friendly?
With only 7 net carbs per serving, this stew can fit within many keto meal plans. The healthy fats from peanut butter and olive oil make it satisfying while keeping carbs relatively low.
- → What can I serve with African Chicken Peanut Stew?
Traditional accompaniments include fufu, rice, couscous, or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. A side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad also pairs well with this hearty stew.
- → How can I enhance the flavor of this stew?
For more complex flavors, add ground coriander, fresh cilantro, minced garlic, grated ginger, or ground cumin as suggested in the recipe notes. These aromatics complement the peanut and tomato base beautifully.