If you’ve never tried it before, this African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe is a heartwarming celebration of flavors that’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Imagine tender chicken thighs simmered with earthy mushrooms, vibrant spinach, and a luscious peanut butter sauce that brings everything together with a creamy, nutty richness. It’s a dish that’s as comforting as a hug and as exciting as a culinary adventure, perfect for sharing with friends or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in layering the flavors and textures that make this stew truly special. From the aromatic garlic and ginger to the rich peanut butter and fresh veggies, every choice is essential for that authentic taste and satisfying mouthfeel.
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs: These provide juicy, tender meat that soaks up the stew’s flavors beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic: Adds a fragrant and savory base that awakens the senses.
- 1 inch ginger root, peeled and grated or 2 teaspoons ginger paste: Offers a warm, spicy brightness that balances the richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper: Gives a subtle, gentle heat that blends well with the garlic and ginger.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for sautéing and adding a rounded fruitiness.
- 1 cup diced onion from about 1 medium onion: Provides sweetness and depth once caramelized.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Infuses a slight tang and umami that lifts the stew.
- 3 cups water, divided: Acts as the stew base, creating the perfect simmering environment.
- 2 stock cubes (Maggi) About 4g per cube: Introduce a boost of savory flavor and richness.
- 3/4 cup natural peanut butter: The star ingredient—creates the creamy, nutty backbone of the stew.
- 4 oz mushrooms, sliced: Adds an earthy, meaty texture that complements the chicken.
- 1/4-1/2 cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed to remove excess water: Brings vibrant color and a healthy green touch to the dish.
How to Make African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by tossing the boneless chicken thighs with minced garlic, fresh grated ginger, salt, and ground white pepper. This simple seasoning punch sets the tone for the stew by infusing the chicken with aromatic flavors that will bloom as it cooks.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms
Heat olive oil in a large pot and cook the sliced mushrooms until they’re beautifully browned and fragrant. Once done, remove them from the pot and set them aside—these will be reintroduced later to add layers of texture and earthiness.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
In the same pot, brown the seasoned chicken pieces. This step locks in the chicken’s juices and adds a caramelized depth to the stew. Once browned, take the chicken out and keep it ready for the next stages.
Step 4: Sauté the Onions and Tomato Paste
Next, sauté the diced onion until translucent and soft. Then stir in a bit more garlic and ginger along with the vibrant tomato paste. This combination builds the rich, savory base that makes the stew irresistible.
Step 5: Add Water and Stock Cubes
Pour in the water and crumble in the stock cubes, stirring to dissolve. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer—this broth forms the stew’s flavorful soul.
Step 6: Stir in the Peanut Butter
Now for the magic: add the natural peanut butter and stir until it becomes a smooth, luscious sauce. The peanut butter adds a creamy texture and nutty aroma that truly defines this classic African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe.
Step 7: Simmer the Chicken
Return the browned chicken to the pot and let it gently simmer in the peanut-infused broth. This slow cooking allows the meat to become melt-in-your-mouth tender while soaking up that rich flavor.
Step 8: Add Mushrooms and Spinach
Finally, fold the sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach into the stew. A brief simmer will meld all the ingredients together, delivering vibrant color, balanced textures, and fresh notes to complete the dish.
How to Serve African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or parsley complements the savory peanut stew and adds a burst of green freshness. A dollop of plain yogurt or a few roasted peanuts on top will add a delightful contrast of coolness and crunch.
Side Dishes
This stew pairs wonderfully with fluffy white rice, creamy mashed sweet potatoes, or warm crusty bread. These sides soak up the rich peanut sauce and make every bite a comforting experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe in individual bowls garnished with sliced scallions and a drizzle of chili oil for a bit of heat. Alternatively, scoop it over a bed of quinoa or couscous for a colorful and nutritious meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen and meld beautifully after resting overnight, making your second serving even better.
Freezing
This stew freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat the stew gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You might want to add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs offer more tenderness and flavor, chicken breasts will work fine; just be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out more easily.
Is natural peanut butter essential for this recipe?
Yes, natural peanut butter with no added sugar or salt is best because it keeps the stew’s flavors balanced and creamy without any unwanted sweetness or additives.
Can I make this stew vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute the chicken for hearty vegetables like sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or chickpeas, and use vegetable stock cubes instead to keep that rich, savory flavor.
How spicy is this African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe?
This recipe is mild by default, focusing on warmth and earthiness rather than heat. You can easily add chili flakes or fresh peppers to spice things up to your liking.
What’s the best way to thicken the stew if it’s too thin?
If your stew feels thin, simmer it uncovered a bit longer to reduce the liquid or add a spoonful of peanut butter to thicken the sauce naturally and enhance the flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe that brings warmth and joy with every spoonful. Whether you’re looking to impress family, comfort your soul, or simply enjoy a deliciously unique dish, this stew delivers all that and more. Give it a try and let the rich, nutty goodness brighten your dinner table—you might just find a new favorite to make often!
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African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Stew
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: African
Description
This hearty African Chicken Peanut Stew combines tender chicken thighs with a rich, creamy peanut butter sauce infused with garlic, ginger, and tomatoes. Enhanced with mushrooms and spinach, this flavorful stew is a comforting and nutritious meal, perfect for a quick 30-minute dinner serving six people.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 inch ginger root, peeled and grated or 2 teaspoons ginger paste
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 cup diced onion (about 1 medium onion)
- 4 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4–1/2 cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed to remove excess water
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 3 cups water, divided
- 2 stock cubes (Maggi, about 4g per cube)
- 3/4 cup natural peanut butter
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Toss the chicken thighs with minced garlic, grated ginger or ginger paste, salt, and ground white pepper. Set aside to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Sauté Mushrooms: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until browned and their moisture evaporates. Remove the mushrooms from the pot and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: In the same pot, add the seasoned chicken thighs and brown them on all sides. This step locks in juices and develops flavor. Once browned, remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Aromatics: Add the diced onions to the pot and cook until they become translucent. Stir in garlic, ginger, and tomato paste and cook for an additional minute to release their aromas.
- Add Water and Stock Cubes: Pour in about 3 cups of water and add the two Maggi stock cubes. Stir and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to develop the broth.
- Add Peanut Butter: Gradually stir in the natural peanut butter until the sauce is smooth and creamy, ensuring it is well incorporated into the broth.
- Add Back Chicken: Return the browned chicken thighs to the pot. Let the stew simmer gently so the chicken cooks through and absorbs the rich peanut sauce flavor.
- Add Vegetables: Reintroduce the sautéed mushrooms and add the thawed spinach to the pot. Simmer briefly, just enough for the veggies to heat through and meld together with the stew.
Notes
- For a thicker stew, reduce the amount of water or simmer longer to concentrate the sauce.
- Use skinless chicken thighs to maintain tenderness and avoid excess fat.
- If fresh ginger is unavailable, ginger paste is a convenient substitute and works well in this recipe.
- Natural peanut butter without added sugar or salt is best for controlling seasoning.
- Serve with steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
