There’s nothing quite like the earthy aroma of spices mingling with the rich scent of peanut butter that wafts through my kitchen while making West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew. On cozy nights when comfort food is a priority, this hearty one-pot meal has become my go-to. Imagine tender chicken simmering in a velvety peanut sauce, with the gentle heat from Scotch Bonnet pepper adding just the right kick—it’s like a warm, flavorful hug in a bowl.
I first discovered this delightful dish during a cooking class focused on global cuisines, and I’ve been hooked ever since. This recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also freezer-friendly, making it perfect for meal prep or unexpected guests. Each spoonful offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors that transport you to the bustling markets of West Africa, showcasing the comforting essence of traditional home-cooked meals. So grab your apron and join me in creating a comforting bowl of savory goodness that will surely become a family favorite!
Why is Savory West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew so special?
Comfort Food Redefined: This stew embraces the essence of home-cooked comfort, providing warmth and flavor in every bite.
Easy Preparation: Designed for busy schedules, it only takes one pot and a handful of ingredients to create this hearty dish.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins for a personal touch.
Freezer-Friendly: Perfect for meal prep, this stew can be frozen for up to three months, ensuring a delicious meal is always within reach.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Ideal for gatherings or family dinners, the rich, peanutty taste is sure to impress even the pickiest of eaters.
This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together, just like the cultural traditions that inspired it.
Savory West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew Ingredients
• Gather these key ingredients to create a mouthwatering Savory West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew that your family will love!
For the Base
- Peanut or Neutral Oil – Used for sautéing; can substitute with vegetable or canola oil.
- Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; finely chop for even cooking.
- Skinless Boneless Chicken Thighs – Provides rich protein; tender and flavorful when cooked.
- Carrots – Adds a splash of color and sweetness; cut into ½ inch pieces for uniform cooking.
- Ginger (2″ piece, minced) – Enhances aroma and adds warmth; fresh is recommended for best flavor.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Provides robust flavor; use freshly minced for optimal taste.
- Tomato Paste (2 Tbsp) – Adds richness and enhances umami flavor; substitute with tomato purée if needed.
- Roma or Beef Steak Tomatoes (1 ¼ lbs, finely chopped) – Offers acidity and texture to the stew.
- Scotch Bonnet Pepper or Habanero Chile (1, halved) – Control spice level by adjusting quantity or leaving whole.
- Chopped Fresh Thyme Leaves (2 Tbsp) – Infuses herbal notes; dry thyme can be used as a substitute.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (4 cups, divided) – Acts as the stew’s base for flavor; homemade is ideal, but store-bought works too.
For the Flavor Boost
- Sweet Potato (1 medium, chopped into ½” pieces) – Adds natural sweetness and color; can substitute with butternut squash.
- Fish Sauce (2 Tbsp) – Deepens umami flavor; soy sauce is a suitable non-fish alternative.
- Smooth Peanut Butter (1 cup, unsweetened) – Key for a creamy texture; avoid sweetened varieties for better results.
For Serving
- Cooked White Rice (3 cups) – Serves as the perfect base for the stew; quinoa or couscous are great alternatives.
- Chopped Roasted Peanuts (¾ cup) – Adds crunch as a garnish; can omit for a nut-free option.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper, Ground Cumin, Ground Cardamom, Kosher Salt – Season to taste; adjust according to personal preference.
With these cozy ingredients, you’re just steps away from enjoying a delightful bowl of Savory West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew that encapsulates warmth and heartiness!
How to Make Savory West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew
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Heat Oil: In a large pot, heat 3 tablespoons of peanut or neutral oil over medium heat until it shimmers. This will create the perfect base for your stew’s flavors.
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Sauté Onions: Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. This step builds the foundational flavor profile.
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Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced ginger and garlic; cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. These ingredients will enhance the aroma of your stew beautifully.
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Brown Chicken: Introduce the chopped carrots along with the skinless boneless chicken thighs. Brown the chicken on all sides for 6-8 minutes until it has a lovely golden color.
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Incorporate Tomatoes: Stir in the tomato paste, chopped tomatoes, and halved Scotch Bonnet pepper. Allow everything to cook and break down for about 5-7 minutes, creating a rich mixture.
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Mix Ingredients: Add the smooth peanut butter, chicken broth, chopped sweet potato, and fish sauce to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender.
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Season & Serve: Adjust the seasoning with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve the stew over cooked white rice, garnished with chopped roasted peanuts and fresh thyme for an extra burst of flavor.
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of lime juice for a refreshing tang.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Savory West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This hearty stew will continue to develop its flavors, making it even more delicious when you reheat it.
Freezer: Freeze in portioned airtight containers for up to 3 months. Ensure the stew cools completely before freezing to maintain its rich texture.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water to bring back the creamy texture of this savory West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew.
Make Ahead: Preparing this stew a day in advance not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug!
Make Ahead Options
These savory West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew components are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dinner with minimal effort during busy weeknights! You can chop your vegetables (onions, carrots, sweet potatoes) and store them in the fridge up to 24 hours in advance. Additionally, the stew itself can be cooked and refrigerated for up to 3 days; the flavors actually deepen and improve over time. For the best quality, ensure the stew cools completely before refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the stew on the stovetop or microwave until piping hot, then spoon it over freshly cooked rice for a delightful meal that’s just as delicious as when it was first made!
Expert Tips for Savory West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh ginger and garlic for the best flavor. Dried versions can be less aromatic and may alter the stew’s essence.
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Adjust Spice Level: Spice lovers can leave the Scotch Bonnet whole for maximum heat. For a milder dish, remove seeds and ribs, or substitute with bell peppers.
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Bone-in Chicken Option: For richer flavors, consider using bone-in chicken thighs instead of skinless boneless ones. The bones lend depth to the stew.
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Make Ahead: Prepare the stew a day in advance. The flavors deepen and meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. Refrigerate and gently reheat before serving.
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Freezing Made Easy: Portion out servings to freeze; this savory West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew can last up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat!
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Garnish Wisely: Top with crushed roasted peanuts and fresh thyme just before serving for added crunch and freshness, giving your stew a vibrant finish.
What to Serve with Savory West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew?
Elevate your comforting dinner experience by pairing this rich stew with delightful accompaniments that balance its flavors.
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Fluffy White Rice: A classic base, fluffy white rice absorbs the creamy peanut sauce, making each bite a harmonious blend of taste and texture.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, crusty bread enhances the meal, inviting you to soak up every last drop of that velvety stew. Its crunchy texture complements the hearty richness beautifully.
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Traditional Fufu: Authentic and comforting, fufu adds a unique softness that pairs wonderfully with the thick stew, creating a delightful contrast.
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Fresh Cucumber Salad: A crisp salad brings a refreshing crunch, cutting through the stew’s richness while providing a light, zesty contrast.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and roasted veggies like sweet potatoes or zucchini add caramelized sweetness and a colorful touch to your meal, playing off the stew’s warmth.
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Chilled Mango Chutney: Offering a sweet and tangy counterpoint, mango chutney enhances each spoonful of stew, delighting your taste buds with its tropical notes.
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Mint Lemonade: This refreshing drink beautifully complements the warm spices of the stew, providing a citrusy lift that cleanses your palate between bites.
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Creamy Coconut Rice Pudding: For dessert, treat yourself to a tropical indulgence with coconut rice pudding, balancing the savory meal perfectly with its sweetness and creaminess.
Savory West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this delightful stew to suit your taste and dietary preferences!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk instead of peanut butter for a creamy alternative while adding a hint of tropical flavor.
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Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with turkey or even chickpeas for a fulfilling vegetarian version that maintains hearty flavors.
Chickpeas will provide a protein punch, while turkey brings a familiar taste to this comforting dish. -
Vegetable Medley: Swap sweet potatoes for other seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach, offering fresh twists to the texture.
Spinach can add a pop of color, while zucchini will soak up the delicious stew flavors, making every bite exciting. -
Spicy Kick: Increase the heat by adding a finely chopped jalapeño alongside the Scotch Bonnet for an extra fiery punch.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding smoke paprika to enhance the smokiness along with the heat. -
Nut-Free Option: Replace peanut butter with tahini or sunflower seed butter for an equally creamy texture without the nuts, perfect for those allergic.
The alternative spreads will still maintain that luscious feel while celebrating a different flavor profile. -
Quinoa Base: Instead of white rice, serve the stew over quinoa for a nutritious twist and additional protein.
Quinoa’s earthy flavor blends beautifully, offering a delightful contrast to the savory stew. -
Umami Boost: Add miso paste along with the fish sauce for an irresistible umami depth, enriching the overall flavor of the dish.
The miso will elevate the richness, making your taste buds dance with delight. -
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as cilantro or basil for a refreshing change, enhancing the dish’s aromatic qualities.
Fresh herbs can brighten up every serving, providing layers of flavor to the comforting stew.
Savory West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this stew?
I recommend using skinless boneless chicken thighs for their moist texture and rich flavor. However, you can also opt for chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat, or bone-in thighs for deeper flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you’re saving the stew for later, refrigerating it enhances the flavors, making your next meal feel like a comforting treat on a chilly evening!
Can I freeze Savory West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew?
Absolutely! Freeze the stew in portioned airtight containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing for storage. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat. You may need to add a splash of broth to restore its creamy texture.
How can I adjust the spice level of the stew?
You can easily tailor the heat to your liking by modifying the Scotch Bonnet pepper. For milder flavor, remove the seeds and ribs, or leave the pepper whole while cooking to infuse the warmth without overwhelming heat. If you’re avoiding spice altogether, feel free to omit it entirely!
Are there any nut-free alternatives for this recipe?
If you have nut allergies, you can replace the smooth peanut butter with sunflower seed butter, which provides a similar creaminess without the risk. Alternatively, you can simply omit the peanut butter and add more sweet potato or use a thicker vegetable puree for body.
How can I ensure fresh ingredients make a difference?
Using freshly minced garlic and ginger elevates the flavor of your stew significantly! Fresh ingredients pack a more intense aroma and depth compared to their dried counterparts, making your stew feel like a warm, flavorful hug that captivates the senses.
Savory West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew to Savor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, heat 3 tablespoons of peanut or neutral oil over medium heat until it shimmers.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Stir in the minced ginger and garlic; cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Introduce the chopped carrots along with the skinless boneless chicken thighs. Brown the chicken on all sides for 6-8 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste, chopped tomatoes, and halved Scotch Bonnet pepper. Allow everything to cook for about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the smooth peanut butter, chicken broth, chopped sweet potato, and fish sauce to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Adjust the seasoning with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve the stew over cooked white rice, garnished with chopped roasted peanuts and fresh thyme.