West African Chicken Peanut Stew

West African Chicken Peanut Stew

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
| Calories | 450 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 5g |
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever crave a meal that's both comforting and exciting? This Chicken Peanut Stew Couldn't be easier to make. It is bursting with rich, savory flavors.
Peanut butter in a stew? Trust me. It works so well!
Brief Overview
This is a West African Stew dish. It's humble. It has become a worldwide delight. This African Chicken Peanut Stew is easy and takes about an hour. It makes about 6 servings.
Main Benefits
Peanuts pack a protein punch. This Chicken Curry style meal is perfect for a chilly night. What makes this Groundnut Stew Recipe special is that it's a hug in a bowl.
Ready to dive in? Here's what you need. This is one of the best Hearty Stews that's perfect for an Easy Weeknight Dinner . Let's get cooking!
Ingredients for the Magic
You'll need chicken, of course! Also, peanut butter makes all the difference in this Peanut Chicken meal. Some veggies, and spices complete the flavour! This Chicken Peanut Butter Recipe is so good!
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Cooking!
Alright, let’s dive into what you'll need for This Chicken Peanut Stew Couldn't be simpler to make. Honestly, even if you're not a seasoned chef, you can nail this! It's going to be epic!
Main Ingredients Breakdown
Okay, here’s what you’ll need for this African Chicken Peanut Stew . I promise, it’s not as scary as it looks!
- Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons ( 30 ml ). Use any neutral oil you have.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: 1.5 lbs ( 680g ), cut into bite-sized pieces. Quality chicken makes a difference. Look for plump, pink thighs.
- Large Onion: 1 , chopped (about 1 cup or 200g ). Yellow or white onions work great.
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced (about 1 tbsp or 6g ). Fresh garlic is always best.
- Ginger: 1 inch , peeled and minced (about 1 tbsp or 6g ).
- Red Bell Pepper: 1 , seeded and chopped (about 1 cup or 150g ).
- Scotch Bonnet Pepper: 1 , minced (optional, about 1/2 tsp or 2g ). This adds heat! Be super careful.
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14.5 oz) can, undrained (about 1 3/4 cups or 411g ).
- Chicken Broth: 4 cups ( 32 fl oz or 946 ml ). Good broth makes a huge difference.
- Sweet Potato: 1 large , peeled and cubed (about 1.5 cups or 250g ).
- Peanut Butter: 1/2 cup , creamy or chunky ( 120 ml or 125g ). Creamy is usually better, but chunky adds texture.
- Tomato Paste: 1/4 cup ( 60 ml or 60g ).
- Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon ( 5ml or 3g ). This gives it that lovely smoky flavor.
- Cumin: 1/2 teaspoon ( 2.5ml or 1.5g ).
- Cilantro: 1/4 cup , chopped ( 6g or 6g ), for garnish. Fresh is key!
Seasoning Notes for This Groundnut Stew Recipe
For this Peanut Chicken recipe, seasoning is super important! The smoked paprika and cumin are essential for that warm, earthy flavour.
Don't skip the tomato paste. It adds richness. No smoked paprika? Use regular paprika and a tiny dash of liquid smoke if you have it.
It’s not exactly the same, but it will do in a pinch.
Equipment Needed for this Easy Weeknight Dinner
Keep it simple, keep it easy. You’ll need a big pot or a Dutch oven. This One-Pot Chicken Dinner is a snap.
A cutting board and a good knife is crucial for chopping all those lovely veggies. A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring, and your usual measuring cups and spoons.
If you don't have measuring cups, use a normal mug as a reference.
My auntie always says, "A clean kitchen is a happy kitchen!". This Hearty Stews recipe is pretty straightforward, but good prep is key. So, get your ingredients ready, and let's get started!
I reckon This Chicken Peanut Stew Couldn't be more inviting. It's an absolute treat.
West African Chicken Peanut Stew: Your New One-Pot Obsession
Honestly, finding a decent Easy Weeknight Dinner can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Been there, done that, bought the t-shirt! But let me tell you, This Chicken Peanut Stew Couldn't be easier or tastier.
Forget bland suppers, this Hearty Stew is a flavour bomb straight from West Africa. Think cosy nights in with a bowl of pure comfort.
And it's on the table in just over an hour. This African Chicken Peanut Stew is about to become a regular in your rotation! Plus, did you know that the average home cook saves about 30 minutes a day by using one-pot recipes? That's almost four hours a week!
Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row
- Essential mise en place: Chop 1 large onion, mince 2 cloves garlic and 1 inch ginger. Cube 1 large sweet potato. Chop 1 red bell pepper.
- Time-saving organization tips: Get all your spices measured out before you even turn on the hob. Trust me, it helps. I once forgot the cumin and had to rummage mid-cook.
- Safety reminders: If using a scotch bonnet pepper, wear gloves when handling it. Seriously, I learned that the hard way! Wash your hands thoroughly afterwards, even if you think you don't need to.
Step-by-Step To Peanut Chicken Perfection
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown 1.5 lbs of chicken seasoned with salt and pepper. Then, set aside.
- Sauté the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger until softened. Should take about 5 minutes.
- Add 1 chopped red bell pepper, smoked paprika (1 teaspoon) and cumin (1/2 teaspoon). Cook for 1 minute , stirring.
- Stir in 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, 4 cups chicken broth, cubed sweet potato, 1/4 cup tomato paste, and 1/2 cup peanut butter. Bring to a simmer.
- Return the browned chicken to the pot.
- Cover and simmer for 30 minutes , or until chicken is cooked through and sweet potatoes are tender. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken is 165° F ( 74° C) .
- Season to taste with salt and pepper. Then, garnish with 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro.
- Serve this amazing peanut chicken now!
Pro Tips For A Delicious Stew
- Expert technique: For extra flavour, toast the spices lightly in the pot before adding the wet ingredients.
- Common mistake: Don't skip browning the chicken. It adds a depth of flavour that you just can't get otherwise!
- Make-ahead options: This Groundnut Stew Recipe is even better the next day! The flavours meld together beautifully overnight. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. You could even freeze it!. It makes the perfect Chicken Curry -like dish. The best thing about Chicken Peanut Butter Recipe dishes, is they only get better with time.
So there you have it. A simple, flavorful West African Stew that’s guaranteed to warm you from the inside out.
Honestly, this One-Pot Chicken Dinner is so good, it’ll become a staple in your house.
Recipe Notes: Making the Best African Chicken Peanut Stew
Alright, let's talk about the real nitty-gritty of this amazing West African Stew . I always say, a recipe is just a starting point, innit? This Chicken Peanut Stew Couldn't be any easier to tweak to your liking! Honestly, cooking should be fun, so don't be afraid to experiment.
Serving This Peanut Chicken Masterpiece
Presentation-wise, a little goes a long way. I love serving it in a rustic bowl, topped with a generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
A dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream also adds a nice coolness. For sides, think simple: fluffy white rice or even some crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
You could even have couscous, too. And for a beverage? A cold glass of ginger beer or a light, crisp white wine works a treat!
Storage Savvy: Keepin' it Fresh
If you've got leftovers (which is unlikely 'cause it's so darn good!), simply let the Peanut Chicken cool completely before popping it into an airtight container.
It'll keep happily in the fridge for up to 3 days . Fancy making it in advance? This Hearty Stew freezes like a dream! Just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the hob or in the microwave.
When reheating, add a splash of water if it seems too thick.
Variations on the Groundnut Stew Recipe Theme
Want to mix things up? Easy peasy! For a veggie version, swap the chicken for chickpeas or firm tofu. Honestly, it's just as delicious! And if you're feeling adventurous, add a splash of coconut milk at the end for extra creaminess.
For a seasonal twist, swap sweet potatoes for butternut squash in the Autumn. You know, just use whatever's in season!
Nutrition Deets: Goodness in Every Bite
Okay, so let's keep it real: Chicken Peanut Butter Recipe is not exactly health food. But it is packed with protein, vitamins, and good fats from the peanut butter.
Each serving clocks in at about 450 calories , 35g of protein , 25g of fat and 30g of carbs.
Think of it as comfort food with benefits!
So there you have it! My guide to getting the most out of your Easy Weeknight Dinner . Don't be afraid to put your own spin on it.
After all, the best cooking comes from the heart! Now go get cookin'!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make This Chicken Peanut Stew Couldn't Be Better ahead of time?
Absolutely! Like a good cup of tea, This Chicken Peanut Stew Couldn't Be Better actually tastes better the next day. The flavors have more time to meld together, creating a richer, more complex taste. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
I'm not a fan of spicy food. How can I reduce the heat in This Chicken Peanut Stew Couldn't Be Better?
No worries, mate! The scotch bonnet pepper is optional and responsible for most of the heat. Simply omit it altogether for a mild stew. If you still want a little kick, start with a very small amount (like a pinch) and taste as you go. You can always add more, but you can't take it away!
Can I freeze This Chicken Peanut Stew Couldn't Be Better?
You bet! This stew freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Be sure to leave some room at the top, as liquids expand when frozen. It'll keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly.
I have a peanut allergy. Is there a substitute for the peanut butter?
While the peanut butter is key to the classic flavor, you can try using sunflower seed butter (SunButter) as a substitute. Be aware that it will alter the taste, so adjust seasonings accordingly. You might also want to check all your other ingredients to ensure they are produced in a peanut-free environment to be safe.
What should I serve with This Chicken Peanut Stew Couldn't Be Better?
This stew is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it's fantastic served over rice (white, brown, or even wild rice). A side of crusty bread is great for soaking up the delicious sauce. If you want a bit of freshness, a simple green salad makes a lovely complement.
I don't have sweet potatoes. What else can I use in This Chicken Peanut Stew Couldn't Be Better?
No problem! Butternut squash makes an excellent substitute for sweet potatoes, adding a similar sweetness and creamy texture. You could also use regular potatoes, though they won't have quite the same sweetness. Just be sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.