The African Chicken Peanut Stew is a rich, savory dish hailing from West Africa. It’s made with tender chicken simmered in a spicy, creamy peanut and tomato-based sauce that’s both comforting and flavorful. This stew is traditionally served in homes across the region and has become a staple for those craving deep, bold flavors.
What makes this dish shine is the luscious texture from natural peanut butter, which adds not just flavor but heartiness. The spices bring depth, while spinach or greens offer balance and color. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a make-ahead meal, this stew is low-carb, high-protein, and satisfying. It’s a one-pot meal that brings warmth and culture straight to your table.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
-
2 lbs chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
-
1 medium onion, chopped
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 tablespoon grated ginger
-
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
-
1 teaspoon paprika
-
1 teaspoon ground coriander
-
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
1 cup crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
-
1/2 cup smooth peanut butter (natural, unsweetened)
-
3 cups chicken broth
-
2 cups chopped spinach (or collard greens)
-
1/2 cup chopped roasted peanuts (for garnish)
-
Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
-
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened.
-
Stir in garlic and ginger, and sauté another minute until fragrant.
-
Add chicken thighs to the pot and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until lightly browned.
-
Mix in the cayenne pepper, paprika, coriander, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly with spices.
-
Add crushed tomatoes and peanut butter. Stir until peanut butter is fully incorporated.
-
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the stew to a boil.
-
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is fully cooked and tender.
-
Add chopped spinach and cook uncovered for another 5-7 minutes, until wilted and incorporated into the stew.
-
Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot, garnished with roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
A Taste of West Africa in Every Spoonful
African Chicken Peanut Stew is a deeply flavorful, comforting, and protein-packed dish that embodies the soul of West African cuisine. Known in various regions as groundnut stew, this dish blends the rich earthiness of peanuts with the warming complexity of African spices. The result is a thick, hearty stew that is both nourishing and satisfying. Traditionally enjoyed across countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal, this stew is more than just food—it’s a celebration of culture and community.
Unlike many conventional stews, this recipe uses peanut butter as a core ingredient, adding a silky texture and nutty depth to every bite. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, ideal for cold weather or simply when you’re in need of a wholesome, filling meal. As the flavors develop, you’ll notice how the savory chicken melds perfectly with the peanut base, creating a unique combination that’s beloved across borders.
Cultural Origins and Regional Variations
African Chicken Peanut Stew has a long history rooted in the culinary traditions of West Africa. Groundnuts (or peanuts) were introduced to Africa by Portuguese explorers in the 16th century, and they quickly became a staple crop in many countries. In places like Nigeria and Ghana, groundnut stews became a household favorite, often served with rice, fufu, or yams.
Each country, and sometimes even each family, has its own version of this iconic dish. In Ghana, the stew is often more tomato-forward and may include additional vegetables like eggplant or okra. In Nigeria, the spice level is usually higher, with hot pepper varieties adding bold heat. Senegal’s version, known as maafe, may incorporate lamb or fish, and often includes root vegetables such as sweet potatoes or carrots. What unites all these versions is the signature richness of the peanut sauce and the communal nature of sharing the meal.
The Unique Role of Peanut Butter
Peanut butter might seem like an unusual choice for a savory stew, but in West African cuisine, it’s both traditional and practical. The natural oils in peanut butter thicken the sauce while enhancing its richness. Unlike the sugary spreads commonly found in Western grocery stores, the peanut butter used in African cooking is typically unsweetened and minimally processed.
When added to hot broth and simmered with spices and tomato, the peanut butter melts into a creamy base that coats the chicken and vegetables. This process creates a velvety consistency and a balanced, slightly nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients without overpowering them. It’s a brilliant use of pantry staples to achieve deep flavor and luxurious texture.
Why This Recipe Works for Modern Diets
This African Chicken Peanut Stew is ideal for those following a low-carb, high-protein, or gluten-free diet. It’s naturally free of gluten, and the use of healthy fats from the peanut butter helps create a satisfying meal without the need for starchy fillers. Because the recipe uses whole, minimally processed ingredients, it also aligns with clean eating and paleo principles (if you use a compliant peanut butter or almond butter).
Additionally, it’s an excellent option for meal prepping. The flavors intensify over time, meaning leftovers taste even better the next day. Stored properly in the fridge or freezer, it can be a lifesaver on busy nights when you need a nutritious meal ready to go.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Traditionally, this stew is served with starchy sides like rice, boiled yams, or fufu—a dough-like staple made from pounded cassava or plantain. However, if you’re watching your carb intake, it also pairs beautifully with cauliflower rice or sautéed greens like spinach or kale. The slight bitterness of dark greens balances the rich, nutty sauce and adds fiber to the meal.
For an added crunch and visual appeal, chopped roasted peanuts or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top provides a nice contrast. Some like to add a dollop of yogurt or sour cream to tone down the heat and create a creamy finish. You can also enjoy it alongside flatbread or naan to scoop up the thick stew.
Cooking Tips and Customizations
To get the most flavor, always sear the chicken before simmering. This locks in the juices and adds a savory base to the stew. You can also experiment with different protein sources—turkey, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. The stew is flexible, making it a great canvas for creative variations.
If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the cayenne or add chopped scotch bonnet peppers (be cautious—they’re very hot!). Want it milder? Simply reduce the heat and let the peanut and tomato flavors shine through. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to increase the nutritional value and stretch the servings.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
This dish is packed with healthful ingredients. Chicken provides lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. Peanut butter, when used in moderation, delivers healthy monounsaturated fats and a solid dose of plant-based protein.
Spinach or other dark leafy greens add iron, fiber, and antioxidants, while tomatoes contribute lycopene—a compound linked to heart health and reduced inflammation. Ginger and garlic, commonly used in African cooking, have known immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. Every ingredient has a purpose, making this dish as nutritious as it is flavorful.
A Global Comfort Food
Although it’s deeply rooted in African tradition, African Chicken Peanut Stew has gained international popularity. Its bold, satisfying flavors and nourishing ingredients have made it a favorite among food lovers around the world. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a cultural food night with friends, it never fails to impress.
This stew transcends borders and brings people together. In many African households, it’s served in large communal bowls, with everyone gathering to eat with their hands—signifying unity and togetherness. That spirit of shared enjoyment translates beautifully to any kitchen, anywhere.
Conclusion
African Chicken Peanut Stew is more than just a meal—it’s a journey into West African culinary heritage, wrapped in the comfort of a warm, nutty bowl of goodness. It offers a wonderful balance of flavor, nutrition, and tradition, making it ideal for adventurous eaters and health-conscious cooks alike.
Its versatility means it can be tailored to suit various tastes and dietary needs, whether you’re going for extra spice, added vegetables, or a vegetarian spin. Best of all, it’s incredibly satisfying and easy to make, especially in one pot. So the next time you’re looking for a hearty and wholesome meal that delivers on flavor and culture, give this African Chicken Peanut Stew a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort dish.