African Chicken Peanut Stew: A Heartwarming 5-Ingredient Delight

Name: African Chicken Peanut Stew: A Heartwarming 5-Ingredient Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: African
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1 cup peanut butter; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz); 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup sweet potatoes, diced; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; Salt and pepper to taste

oktober 14, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh, let me tell you about the magic of African chicken peanut stew! This dish is a warm hug in a bowl, bursting with rich flavors that dance on your palate. The creamy peanut sauce combined with tender chicken and sweet potatoes creates a symphony of taste that just makes my heart sing. I love making this stew when I have family over; it’s the perfect meal to share while we gather around the table, swapping stories and laughter. Trust me, once you experience the comforting vibes of this stew, it’ll become a go-to recipe in your kitchen too. So, let’s dive into the delightful world of African chicken peanut stew and get cooking!

Ingredients for African Chicken Peanut Stew

Gathering the right ingredients is key to bringing this dish to life! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless: I love using thighs because they stay juicy and flavorful as they cook. Feel free to trim any excess fat, but don’t stress too much—those little bits can add flavor!
1 cup peanut butter: Go for creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a natural one for a more earthy flavor, but just know it might be a tad less creamy.
1 onion, chopped: A medium onion works great here. Chop it up nice and fine so it blends beautifully into the stew.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must! It adds that aromatic punch that lifts the whole dish. I always say, the more garlic, the better!
1 inch ginger, grated: Fresh ginger brings a lovely warmth to the stew. Just peel it and grate it right in—easy peasy!
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz): These add a nice acidity to balance the creaminess of the peanut butter. You can use fire-roasted for a smoky twist if you like!
2 cups chicken broth: Homemade is best, but store-bought works just fine. This broth is where all the flavors meld together, so don’t skimp!
1 cup sweet potatoes, diced: Sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness and a beautiful color. Just peel and chop them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
1 cup spinach, chopped: Fresh spinach adds a burst of color and nutrients. I usually toss it in at the end so it stays vibrant and tender.
2 tbsp vegetable oil: This is for sautéing the aromatics and chicken. You can use olive oil or any neutral oil you prefer.
Salt and pepper to taste: Always season to your liking! A little taste test at the end can work wonders.

Now that you’ve got your ingredients lined up, you’re all set to create this hearty, flavorful stew. Let’s keep the momentum going and move on to how to prepare it!

How to Prepare African Chicken Peanut Stew

Alright, let’s get to the fun part—making this amazing African chicken peanut stew! I promise it’s easier than it sounds, and the aroma you’ll fill your kitchen with is just divine. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you along the way:

First, heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it nice and hot but not smoking!
Once the oil’s shimmering, toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté this fragrant mix for about 5 minutes or until the onion is soft and translucent. Oh, the smell is heavenly!
Next, add the boneless, skinless chicken thighs to the pot. Cook them for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re browned on the outside. This step seals in all that juicy goodness.
Now it’s time to stir in the diced tomatoes, creamy peanut butter, and chicken broth. Mix it all together until the peanut butter is fully incorporated. You might feel like a culinary genius at this point!
Throw in the diced sweet potatoes and bring the mixture to a boil. This is where the magic starts to happen!
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This is when all those wonderful flavors meld together and the chicken becomes super tender.
After 30 minutes, carefully lift the lid (watch out for steam!) and stir in the chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach is wilted and vibrant green.
Finally, don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. A little taste test here is always a good idea to ensure it’s just right before serving!

And there you have it! A delicious, hearty African chicken peanut stew ready to be ladled into bowls. Serve it up with some rice or crusty bread to soak up that rich sauce, and you’ve got yourself a meal that’ll warm your heart and fill your belly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich, comforting flavors: The combination of creamy peanut butter and tender chicken creates a savory stew that feels like a warm hug!
Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how quickly this stew comes together.
Nutrient-packed: Loaded with sweet potatoes and spinach, this dish is not just delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals.
Perfect for sharing: This recipe yields enough to feed a family or a small gathering, making it ideal for cozy dinners with loved ones.
Versatile: You can easily customize it with different vegetables or spices to suit your taste. Want a little heat? Toss in some chili peppers!
Meal prep friendly: This stew keeps well in the fridge, making it great for leftovers or meal prep for the week ahead.
Gluten-free goodness: It’s naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy this hearty dish without worry.

Tips for Success with African Chicken Peanut Stew

Ready to take your African chicken peanut stew to the next level? Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure it turns out perfect every time:

Get creative with proteins: While chicken thighs are a fantastic choice, you can easily swap in chicken breasts, or even try it with turkey, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is tender!
Peanut butter preference: If you’re a fan of a little crunch, consider using chunky peanut butter instead of creamy. It adds a delightful texture to the stew that I absolutely love!
Spice it up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced chili peppers when you sauté the onions. You can also throw in some curry powder or ground cumin for an extra layer of flavor.
Fresh herbs: For a pop of freshness, stir in some chopped cilantro or parsley just before serving. It brightens up the rich flavors and makes the dish look gorgeous!
Simmer longer for deeper flavor: If you have the time, let the stew simmer for a little longer than 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making it taste like it’s been cooking all day!
Batch cooking: This stew is perfect for meal prep! Make a double batch and freeze half for a quick meal later. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Adjusting the consistency: If you prefer a thicker stew, let it simmer uncovered for the last few minutes to reduce the liquid. For a thinner stew, add a little more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Serving suggestions: Serve it over rice, quinoa, or with crusty bread for soaking up that delicious sauce. A dollop of yogurt or a squeeze of lime on top can add a refreshing contrast!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a memorable African chicken peanut stew that your family and friends will rave about. Happy cooking!

Variations of African Chicken Peanut Stew

If you’re like me, you love a recipe that’s flexible and can adapt to your cravings or what’s in your pantry! Here are some fun variations of African chicken peanut stew that you can try out:

Different proteins: Swap the chicken for beef, lamb, or even shrimp for a totally different flavor profile. Just remember, cooking times will vary, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking!
Vegetarian delight: For a meatless option, substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, cauliflower, or eggplant. You can also add chickpeas or lentils for protein and texture.
Sweet potato alternatives: If you want to mix things up, try using butternut squash or regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes. Each will give the stew a unique sweetness and texture!
Add some greens: While spinach is a wonderful choice, don’t hesitate to throw in other greens like kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens for a nutrient boost. Just add them towards the end to keep them vibrant and fresh.
Spice it up: Experiment with spices! A bit of curry powder, ground coriander, or even a splash of coconut milk can add incredible depth. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a dash of harissa for some extra heat!
Nutty twist: If you’re a fan of nuts, consider adding chopped peanuts or cashews on top just before serving for a delightful crunch and added flavor. It’s a simple way to elevate the dish!
Sauce variations: For a different flavor, try using tahini instead of peanut butter for a sesame twist. It gives the stew a unique taste while still keeping that creamy texture.
Herb infusion: Fresh herbs can really change the game! Try adding fresh basil, mint, or even lemon thyme for a refreshing twist that brightens up the dish.

These variations not only keep the stew exciting but also allow you to cater to different dietary preferences or seasonal ingredients. So, feel free to get creative and make this African chicken peanut stew your own! Happy experimenting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve enjoyed your delicious African chicken peanut stew, let’s talk about how to store those tasty leftovers! You’ll want to keep all that flavor intact for your next meal. Here are my best tips:

Cooling down: First things first, let the stew cool completely at room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation and keeps it from becoming watery.
Airtight containers: Transfer the cooled stew into airtight containers. If you have a family-sized batch, consider portioning it out into smaller containers for easy reheating later!
Refrigeration: You can store the stew in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s sealed well to keep those flavors fresh and vibrant.
Freezing for later: If you have more stew than you can eat in a few days, it freezes beautifully! Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving a little space for expansion. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months!

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, here’s how to reheat them:

Thawing: If frozen, it’s best to thaw the stew in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This keeps it from getting mushy during the heating process.
Stovetop method: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If it looks a little thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of chicken broth or water to get it back to that perfect creamy consistency!
Microwave method: You can also microwave it! Just place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it (a plate works great), and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it’s hot all the way through.

And there you go! With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your delightful African chicken peanut stew again and again, without losing any of that delicious flavor. Happy eating!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk about the goodness packed into each serving of this African chicken peanut stew! It’s not only delicious but also quite nutritious, making it a great addition to your meal rotation. Here’s what you can expect per serving:

Calories: 450
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 600mg

This stew is a wonderful balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbs, making it not just filling but also satisfying. The sweet potatoes and spinach bring in those essential vitamins and minerals, so you can feel good about every bite! Enjoy this hearty dish, knowing it’s nourishing your body as well as your soul.

FAQ About African Chicken Peanut Stew

Got questions about making the perfect African chicken peanut stew? I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I hear, along with my helpful answers:

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Absolutely! While I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness, you can also use chicken breasts or even bone-in chicken for more flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly!

What if I don’t have peanut butter?

No worries! If you’re out of peanut butter, you can substitute it with tahini or even sunbutter for a nut-free option. It’ll change the flavor a bit, but you’ll still get that creamy texture!

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! For a delightful vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and replace it with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or chickpeas. You’ll still get that rich flavor from the peanut sauce!

How spicy is this stew?

The spice level is totally up to you! The base recipe is mild, but if you like a kick, feel free to add in some chili peppers or crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions. Just taste as you go to find your perfect heat!

Can I prepare this stew in advance?

Definitely! This stew makes for excellent meal prep. You can make it a day or two in advance, and the flavors only get better as they meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to enjoy it!

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, feel free to freeze it! Just make sure it cools completely before freezing in freezer-safe containers or bags.

What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or even crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. You could also serve it with a side salad for a fresh contrast. Whatever you choose, it’ll be a hit!

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. Other great additions include bell peppers, carrots, or even zucchini. Just chop them into similar sizes so they cook evenly, and add them in with the sweet potatoes for the best results.

What’s the best way to reheat this stew?

The stovetop is my favorite method! Just reheat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can add a splash of chicken broth or water if it gets too thick. The microwave works too—heat in short intervals, stirring between, until hot!

I hope this FAQ helps clarify any questions you have about making your African chicken peanut stew! If you have more questions, feel free to reach out. Happy cooking!

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Over mij

Hoi, mijn naam is Julia. Ik ben het hart van Vihaad Recipes en een gepassioneerde liefhebber van lekker eten. Mijn liefde voor koken begon al in mijn kindertijd, geïnspireerd door de heerlijke maaltijden van mijn grootmoeder. Vandaag de dag deel ik smakelijke recepten die mensen samenbrengen door het gedeelde plezier van eten.