African Chicken Peanut Stew, often called Groundnut Stew, is one of the most beloved dishes across West Africa. With its combination of tender chicken, velvety peanut butter, earthy spices, and sweet root vegetables, this stew offers a comforting and satisfying meal in every spoonful. It’s a recipe that tells a story—of tradition, hospitality, and family gatherings.
If you’ve never tasted peanut-based stews before, you might be surprised by how creamy, nutty, and deeply savory this dish is. It’s rich without being heavy, flavorful without being overwhelming, and adaptable to different diets and preferences. From Nigeria to Ghana to Senegal, variations of peanut stew are found across the region, each version highlighting the unique flavors of local cooking traditions.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to prepare the best African Chicken Peanut Stew at home—from choosing the right ingredients to step-by-step cooking instructions, variations, serving ideas, and expert tips to elevate your stew.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Wonder: Everything simmers together in a single pot, making cleanup easy.
- Flavor Explosion: A balance of savory chicken, creamy peanuts, and natural sweetness from vegetables.
- Versatile: Works with chicken, beef, lamb, or vegetarian substitutes like tofu or chickpeas.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s what you’ll need to make authentic African Chicken Peanut Stew.
Protein
- Chicken: Traditionally, bone-in chicken legs or thighs are used because they give the broth a deeper flavor. Boneless chicken also works if you prefer quicker cooking.
Vegetables
- Onion, Garlic, and Ginger: The aromatic trio forms the base of the stew.
- Sweet Potatoes or Yams: Add sweetness and thickness.
- Tomatoes: Provide acidity to balance the creamy peanut butter.
- Leafy Greens (optional): Spinach, kale, or collard greens for extra nutrition.
Seasonings & Spices
- Smoked Paprika or Coriander: For depth and warmth.
- Cayenne or Chili Peppers: For a gentle kick.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning.
Creamy Element
- Natural Peanut Butter: Unsweetened, creamy peanut butter works best. Avoid sweetened or hydrogenated spreads.
- Roasted Peanuts: For texture and garnish.
Liquids
- Chicken Stock: Creates a flavorful base.
- Water (as needed): To adjust thickness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Heat oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven.
- Brown the chicken on all sides until golden (do this in batches). Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Aromatic Base
- In the same pot, sauté chopped onions until soft.
- Add minced garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant.
- Stir in smoked paprika, cayenne, and coriander. Toast spices for 1 minute.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Sweet Potatoes
- Pour in crushed or diced tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in sweet potato chunks.
Step 4: Simmer with Stock
- Return browned chicken to the pot.
- Add chicken stock, cover, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, simmer 40–50 minutes until chicken is tender and vegetables are soft.
Step 5: Add the Peanut Butter
- Whisk peanut butter with a ladle of hot broth until smooth.
- Stir the mixture back into the stew.
- Add roasted peanuts for extra crunch.
Step 6: Finish & Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
- If too thick, add a splash of stock or water. If too thin, simmer uncovered.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and extra peanuts.
Variations of African Peanut Stew
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with chickpeas, black beans, or cubed tofu.
- Vegan: Use vegetable broth and skip animal protein.
- Spicy Senegalese Style: Add Scotch bonnet peppers for heat.
- Ghanaian Inspired: Include smoked fish or ground crayfish for bold umami flavor.
- Kid-Friendly: Reduce cayenne and make it mild.
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute almond or cashew butter (for those without allergies).
Serving Suggestions
- With Rice: The most traditional pairing.
- With Couscous or Quinoa: A lighter, protein-rich option.
- With Flatbread: Perfect for dipping.
- Over Mashed Yams: Adds extra comfort and authenticity.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Lasts 2–3 months in freezer-safe containers.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.
Nutritional Benefits
African Chicken Peanut Stew is not just delicious—it’s nourishing:
- Protein: From chicken and peanuts.
- Healthy Fats: From natural peanut butter.
- Vitamins & Fiber: From sweet potatoes, greens, and tomatoes.
- Balanced Meal: Protein + carbs + fats in one bowl.
Expert Tips for Success
- Brown the Chicken First: Builds flavor.
- Whisk Peanut Butter Separately: Prevents clumping.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust salt and spice gradually.
- Use Bone-In Meat for Flavor: But boneless works if you want quicker cooking.
- Let It Rest: Like curries, this stew tastes better the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs or breasts cook faster. Bone-in pieces, however, create a deeper broth flavor.
Q: What’s the best peanut butter to use?
Use natural, unsweetened peanut butter with only peanuts (and maybe salt) listed as ingredients.
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown chicken and sauté aromatics first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours.
Q: Can I use beef or lamb instead of chicken?
Absolutely. Just adjust cooking time, as red meat may need longer simmering.
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes. In fact, the flavors improve after resting overnight.
Cultural Significance of Peanut Stew in Africa
Peanut stew is more than just a recipe—it’s a cultural emblem of West African hospitality. Known as “Maafe” in Senegal and Gambia, or “Groundnut Stew” in Nigeria and Ghana, it’s often served at family gatherings, community feasts, and celebrations. The dish highlights Africa’s use of local crops like peanuts, tomatoes, and root vegetables, creating meals that are both practical and deeply flavorful.
Conclusion
African Chicken Peanut Stew is a comforting, nourishing, and versatile dish that deserves a place in your recipe collection. With its layers of flavor—savory chicken, nutty peanut butter, sweet vegetables, and fragrant spices—it offers a perfect balance of taste and texture. Whether you enjoy it with rice, couscous, or bread, each bite connects you to the rich culinary traditions of West Africa.
