Can I make this stew spicier?
Yes, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the other spices.
DINNER
Comforting West African Peanut Stew with Chicken and Sweet Potatoes
Warm up with this deeply satisfying West African-inspired peanut stew. Featuring tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and a rich, savory peanut butter base, it's a complete and flavorful meal that comes together beautifully in one pot.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Let's cook.
01
Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
02
Reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03
Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and 1 can of undrained diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
04
Whisk in 1 cup of creamy peanut butter until fully dissolved and the sauce is smooth.
05
Return the browned chicken to the pot. Add the cubed sweet potatoes, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir to combine.
06
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
07
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot.
About This Recipe
Warm up with this deeply satisfying West African-inspired peanut stew. Featuring tender chicken, sweet potatoes, and a rich, savory peanut butter base, it's a complete and flavorful meal that comes together beautifully in one pot.
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.✦
Big flavor.✦
Chef's Tips
For a thicker stew, remove the lid during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add a little more chicken broth.
Easy Substitutions
You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs, though cooking time might be slightly less. For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth, adding chickpeas or lentils for protein. Collard greens or spinach can be added with the sweet potatoes for extra vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It reheats well on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty stew over a bed of fluffy white rice or with a side of warm couscous. A sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or crushed peanuts makes a lovely garnish. For a touch of brightness, a squeeze of lime juice just before serving can elevate the flavors.
Common Mistakes
One common mistake is not browning the chicken sufficiently, which reduces the overall flavor. Another is adding the peanut butter too early or not whisking it thoroughly, leading to a lumpy stew. Lastly, not simmering long enough can result in undercooked sweet potatoes or a less developed flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of peanut butter should I use?
Creamy, unsweetened peanut butter is best for this recipe. Avoid varieties with added sugars or oils if possible.
Can I freeze this stew?
Absolutely! This stew freezes very well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
MORE TO KNOW
The key to a great West African peanut stew is building layers of flavor. Browning the chicken first adds depth, and sautéing the aromatics (onion, garlic, ginger) before adding liquids ensures a rich base. Don't rush the simmering process; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the sweet potatoes to become perfectly tender.
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