As the evening sun casts a warm glow through my kitchen window, the aroma of simmering spices reminds me of my travels across West Africa. This West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew, fondly known as maafe, embodies comfort in every spoonful. Picture tender chicken thighs bathing in a creamy, nutty sauce enriched with tomatoes and a symphony of spices. It’s not merely a meal; it’s a celebration of soulful flavors that brings friends and family together around the dinner table.
On days when fast food just doesn’t cut it, this hearty one-pot dish emerges as the perfect antidote—ready to nourish both body and spirit in under two hours. The combination of sweet potatoes and ground peanuts results in a texture that’s both creamy and exciting, offering a culinary adventure that’s surprisingly easy to create right in your own kitchen. So, grab your apron, and let’s transform simple ingredients into a stunning dish that will impress anyone fortunate enough to share it with you!
Why will you love West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew?
Comforting Warmth: This stew wraps you in a delightful hug with every spoonful, enriching your evenings with warmth and familiarity.
Hearty Nutrition: Packed with protein and fiber-rich ingredients like chicken and sweet potatoes, it’s a fulfilling meal ideal for all.
Quick to Prepare: Achieve culinary bliss in under two hours, making it feasible for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Flavorful Adventure: Enjoy a taste of West African cuisine right at home, beautifully balancing nutty, sweet, and spicy notes.
Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect over fluffy rice or paired with traditional fufu, allowing for endless serving possibilities!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Impress family and friends alike with this unique, rich dish that’s bound to be the star of your dinner table!
Ingredients for West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew
• Gather your cooking essentials! Here’s what you need to create this delightful dish:
For the Stew Base
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds depth and warmth; substitute with white pepper for a milder flavor.
- Ground Cumin – Provides earthy, warm notes; no direct substitute but coriander can offer a different profile.
- Ground Cardamom – Contributes a floral, slightly sweet aroma; using allspice can replicate a similar flavor.
- Kosher Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust according to dietary needs.
- Ginger (2” piece, minced) – Imparts warmth and spice; in a pinch, ground ginger can work, but fresh is preferred.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Adds depth of flavor; consider garlic powder as a last resort.
- Medium Onion (1, finely chopped) – Builds the flavor base; shallots are a great substitute for a milder taste.
- Medium Carrots (2, peeled and cut) – Adds sweetness and texture; any root vegetable like parsnips will do.
For the Chicken & Peanut Sauce
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs (1.5 lbs) – Juicy and flavorful; can be replaced with chicken breasts or lamb.
- Peanut or Neutral Oil – For sautéing; olive oil or coconut oil make great substitutes.
- Scotch Bonnet Pepper or Habanero (1, halved) – Provides heat and complexity; use jalapeño for a milder option.
- Tomato Paste (2 Tbsp) – Adds richness and umami; can be replaced with extra fresh tomatoes if needed.
- Roma or Beef Steak Tomatoes (1.25 lbs, finely chopped) – The bulk of the stew’s base; canned tomatoes can offer convenience.
- Smooth Peanut Butter (1 cup) – The creamy key element; consider sunflower seed butter for a nut-free alternative.
- Fish Sauce (2 Tbsp) – Adds depth and umami; soy sauce is a good vegetarian substitute.
For Serving
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (4 cups, divided) – The stew’s base; vegetable broth works for a vegetarian version.
- Medium Sweet Potato (1, chopped) – Adds sweetness and nutritional value; swap with regular potatoes or butternut squash.
- Cooked White Rice (3 cups, for serving) – Complements the dish beautifully; quinoa or cauliflower rice could serve as low-carb alternatives.
- Chopped Roasted Peanuts (3/4 cup, for serving) – Adds crunch; toasted seeds work well for a nut-free version.
- Chopped Fresh Thyme (2 Tbsp, plus more for serving) – Fresh flavor enhancer; dried thyme can be substituted.
Get ready to savor the warmth and rich flavors of your West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew!
How to Make West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew
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Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, ginger, and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
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Brown Chicken: Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs to the pot, cooking them for 6-8 minutes, until they are golden brown on all sides.
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Add Spice & Tomatoes: Stir in ground cumin, cardamom, freshly ground black pepper, chopped thyme, tomato paste, and the finely chopped tomatoes. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes while stirring to blend the flavors.
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Mix Peanut Butter: Incorporate the smooth peanut butter into the pot, stirring until fully combined. Pour in half of the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
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Add Remaining Ingredients: Next, add the chopped sweet potato, fish sauce, and the remaining chicken broth. Reduce the heat and let the stew simmer for about 25-30 minutes until thickened and the chicken is cooked through.
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Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary, then discard the whole pepper. Serve the warm stew over rice, garnished with chopped roasted peanuts and extra thyme.
Optional: Drizzle with a touch of lime juice for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew
Feel free to get creative and personalize this comforting stew, ensuring every bite is just right for you!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version that still boasts creaminess.
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with chunked firm tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth to keep it hearty and satisfying.
- Spice Level: If you prefer a milder stew, replace the Scotch Bonnet with a jalapeño or simply omit it altogether for a gentle warmth.
- Root Veggie Twist: Experiment with color and flavor by adding chopped parsnips or turnips in place of sweet potatoes for a unique texture.
- Flavor Boost: Add a squeeze of fresh lime just before serving to brighten up the flavors and add a wonderful zing!
- Nut-Free Crunch: For a nut-free alternative, use toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds instead of roasted peanuts as a garnish.
- Curry Flavor: Stir in a teaspoon of curry powder along with the spices to introduce a whole new layer of warmth and complexity.
- Hearty Grains: Swap white rice with quinoa or farro for a heartier, nutrient-packed serving option that complements the stew beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
These West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can chop all your fresh ingredients—onions, carrots, sweet potatoes, and herbs—up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, the stew itself can be made and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To maintain quality, store the rice separately; when you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the stew on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through, and serve over freshly cooked rice. Enjoy the ease of a hearty, homemade meal with minimal effort!
What to Serve with West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew?
The enchanting flavors of this hearty stew are perfect for a cozy meal, but what to complement it with?
- Fluffy White Rice: A must-have! The soft grains soak up the rich peanut sauce, enhancing every bite.
- Traditional Fufu: This starchy delight adds a beautiful texture, making your meal a true celebration of West African culture.
- Garlicky sautéed Greens: Leafy greens like spinach or kale provide a refreshing contrast with their slight bitterness, balancing the stew’s creaminess.
- Coconut Curry Carrots: Their sweetness and slight spice elevate the dish beautifully, marrying well with the nutty flavor profile.
- Mango Chutney: A burst of tropical sweetness brings brightness; serve it on the side as a delectable accent.
- Crispy Plantains: Their naturally sweet flavor and crisp texture create a delightful harmony with the stew. Pair them for a comforting contrast.
- Herbal Lemonade: A refreshing drink like herbal lemonade complements the spice and richness of the stew, keeping your meal light yet flavorful.
- Coconut Milk Rice Pudding: For dessert, this creamy treat brings a subtle sweetness that rounds off your meal perfectly.
- Chili Peanuts: Toasted and spiced peanuts on the side offer a delightful crunch and a little extra kick!
- Moroccan Mint Tea: End your meal on a soothing note with fragrant mint tea, helping to cleanse the palate after the rich stew.
How to Store and Freeze West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew
Fridge: Keep leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This ensures you have a quick and delicious meal option throughout the week.
Freezer: Freeze individual portions of the stew in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw your West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the stew gently on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to regain that creamy texture.
Room Temperature: Do not leave the stew out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Expert Tips for West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew
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Spice Control: To tailor the heat level to your liking, leave the Scotch Bonnet whole while simmering; this adds flavor without overwhelming spiciness.
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Even Cooking: Chop your chicken thighs into uniform pieces; this ensures each piece cooks evenly and remains juicy within the creamy stew.
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Creamy Consistency: If your stew is too thick, gradually add more chicken broth until you reach your desired creaminess, maintaining the comforting essence of the West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew.
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Ingredient Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to mix and match your veggies! Root vegetables like parsnips can replace sweet potatoes to add unique flavors and textures.
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Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months; it makes for a quick meal option later on!
West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this stew?
I recommend using boneless skinless chicken thighs for their juicy and flavorful qualities. They stay tender during cooking, making them perfect for this comforting dish. If you prefer a different meat, boneless chicken breasts or lamb can be great alternatives.
How can I select the right ripe tomatoes for this recipe?
Look for vibrant, firm tomatoes, ideally with no blemishes or dark spots. Ripe tomatoes should have a slight give when gently pressed, indicating they’re juicy and sweet. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, using canned tomatoes can save time and effort without compromising flavor.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store your West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags, allowing them to keep well for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze this stew? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the stew cool completely, then portion it into airtight freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure to leave some space for expansion, as soups can thicken when frozen. Label your containers with the date for easy tracking and use within 3 months for the best flavor.
Is this stew suitable for my gluten-free diet?
Yes! This West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew is naturally gluten-free, thanks to its wholesome ingredients. Just be cautious with the fish sauce; ensure it’s gluten-free or substitute it with a gluten-free soy sauce alternative if necessary.
What can I use instead of Scotch Bonnet or Habanero peppers?
If you prefer a milder heat, you can replace Scotch Bonnet or Habanero peppers with jalapeño peppers. Simply remove the seeds for an even gentler spice. Adjust the number of peppers according to your heat preference for the perfect balance in your stew!
Savor West African-Inspired Chicken & Peanut Stew Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, ginger, and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs to the pot, cooking them for 6-8 minutes, until they are golden brown on all sides.
- Stir in ground cumin, cardamom, freshly ground black pepper, chopped thyme, tomato paste, and the finely chopped tomatoes. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes while stirring to blend the flavors.
- Incorporate the smooth peanut butter into the pot, stirring until fully combined. Pour in half of the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Next, add the chopped sweet potato, fish sauce, and the remaining chicken broth. Reduce the heat and let the stew simmer for about 25-30 minutes until thickened and the chicken is cooked through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary, then discard the whole pepper. Serve the warm stew over rice, garnished with chopped roasted peanuts and extra thyme.