This African Chicken Peanut Stew is a rich and comforting West African dish made with tender chicken, tomato sauce, red bell pepper, and creamy peanut butter. Infused with warm spices and simmered to perfection, it’s hearty, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. Traditionally called “Groundnut Stew” in Nigeria, this protein-packed meal is low-carb and gluten-free, perfect for cozy dinners and meal prep alike.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1.5 lb Chicken Thighs

• ½ cup Tomato Sauce

• 1 Red Bell Pepper, chopped

• ½ Onion, chopped

• ½ cup Natural Peanut Butter

• ¼ cup Olive Oil

• 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper

• 1 teaspoon Bouillon Powder (or crushed Maggi cube)

• 1 teaspoon Black Pepper

• 1 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)

• 2 cups Chicken Stock (or vegetable stock/water)

Directions

1. Prepare Chicken:
   Wash and pat dry the chicken. Rub with salt and pepper on both sides.

2. Brown Chicken:
   In a skillet over medium-high heat, add a bit of olive oil and brown chicken pieces on both sides. Set aside.

3. Sauté Vegetables:
   In a large pot, heat the remaining olive oil. Add chopped onions and red bell pepper. Sauté for a few minutes.

4. Build the Stew Base:
   Add tomato sauce, cayenne, bouillon, and black pepper. Simmer for a few minutes, then pour in the chicken stock.

5. Simmer the Chicken:
   Return the browned chicken to the pot. Stir and simmer for about 10 minutes.

6. Add Peanut Butter:
   Stir in peanut butter until well incorporated. Continue simmering until the stew thickens.

7. Season & Serve:
   Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with fufu, white rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Nutrients (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 504 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 10g

• Net Carbs: 7g

• Protein: 26g

• Fat: 41g

• Saturated Fat: 7g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 3g

• Sodium: 496mg

• Potassium: 491mg

• Vitamin A: 714 IU

• Vitamin C: 25mg

• Calcium: 16mg

• Iron: 1mg

A Taste of West Africa in Every Bite

Peanut stews are a beloved staple across various West African countries, where groundnuts (peanuts) have long been used in sauces and soups to provide richness and sustenance. In Nigeria, the dish is often enjoyed with fufu, rice, or other starches that absorb the flavorful sauce. This version combines pantry-friendly ingredients with warm spices and hearty chicken to recreate those authentic flavors in your own kitchen—without complicated steps. The result is a balanced dish that’s both exotic and approachable, delivering depth and comfort in one bowl.

Why This Recipe Works

The success of this stew lies in its smart layering of flavors and textures. Browning the chicken at the start adds rich, meaty flavor to the base. Sautéing onions and red bell peppers builds an aromatic foundation, while tomato sauce contributes acidity and color. Cayenne pepper adds just the right amount of heat, and the bouillon enhances umami depth. The magic happens when the peanut butter is stirred in—instantly thickening the broth and transforming it into a creamy, indulgent sauce that clings to the chicken and vegetables. Every spoonful is packed with warmth, comfort, and bold flavor.

Rich, Creamy, and Comforting

Peanut butter in savory dishes may be unfamiliar to some, but it’s a powerhouse ingredient in African cooking. In this stew, natural peanut butter contributes not only creaminess but also a rich, earthy sweetness that balances the spice and acidity of the tomato base. As it simmers, the peanut butter emulsifies into the broth, creating a luxuriously smooth texture that makes this stew incredibly satisfying. The consistency is thick but pourable—perfect for scooping with a spoon or sopping up with starchy sides.

Perfect for Cozy Dinners or Meal Prep

This dish is the ultimate comfort food—filling, flavorful, and satisfying. It’s perfect for cold nights when you crave something hearty and warming. Even better, it’s an excellent meal prep candidate. It stores well in the fridge or freezer, and the flavors actually deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious. With only about 10g of carbs per serving and 26g of protein, it’s also a solid choice for those following low-carb or gluten-free lifestyles. Paired with cauliflower rice, it can be enjoyed guilt-free as a light and nutritious dinner.

Nutrient-Rich and Balanced

Each serving of this stew delivers a powerful dose of protein and healthy fats while keeping carbohydrates in check. Chicken thighs are rich in B vitamins and zinc, while peanut butter provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and plant-based protein. Red bell peppers contribute vitamin C and antioxidants, and the moderate use of spices boosts metabolism and flavor without adding calories. Despite its creamy richness, this stew is surprisingly balanced and nourishing.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile stew pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments:

• Fufu: The traditional West African choice, made from yams, cassava, or plantains—perfect for scooping up every bit of sauce.

• White Rice: The neutral base balances the bold flavors of the stew.

• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb, keto-friendly option that still absorbs the sauce well.

• Flatbread or Naan: For an unconventional but equally satisfying way to scoop and savor the stew.

• Quinoa or Couscous: For a fusion twist, especially if you’re meal prepping.

Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, or add a squeeze of lime to brighten the dish before serving.

Tips for the Best Stew

• Use bone-in chicken thighs if you prefer more flavor—just increase the simmering time slightly to ensure tenderness.

• Opt for natural peanut butter with no added sugar or hydrogenated oils. This keeps the flavor authentic and the consistency right.

• Control the heat by adjusting the amount of cayenne or chili—start with less and add to taste.

• Simmer until thickened. Don’t rush the final step—give it time to reduce and allow the flavors to concentrate.

• Skim excess oil off the top before serving if the stew separates slightly during simmering.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

African Peanut Stew is an ideal make-ahead dish. Here’s how to store and enjoy it later:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot.

• Freeze: Cool completely and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

• Batch cook: Double the recipe to freeze half—perfect for busy weeks.

• Reheat with a splash of stock or water if the stew thickens too much in storage.

Delicious Variations and Additions

While the base recipe is wonderfully satisfying, you can modify it to suit your taste or pantry:

• Add greens: Stir in chopped kale, spinach, or collard greens during the last 10 minutes for added fiber and nutrients.

• Include vegetables: Sweet potatoes, carrots, or okra add heartiness and contrast.

• Swap proteins: Try beef chunks, turkey, or even tofu for different versions.

• Make it vegetarian: Use chickpeas or lentils in place of chicken and swap chicken stock for vegetable broth.

• Nut-free option: Use sunflower seed butter for a similar creamy texture.

These adjustments keep the core flavor intact while opening the door to new combinations.

Conclusion

African Chicken Peanut Stew is more than just a meal—it’s a rich, cultural culinary experience that brings the warmth and comfort of West African cuisine to your kitchen. With its velvety texture, nutty richness, and aromatic spice, this dish hits every craving for something hearty and satisfying. Whether served traditionally with fufu or adapted with rice or low-carb sides, it’s a dish that’s both deeply nostalgic and remarkably adaptable. Easy to prepare, great for leftovers, and bursting with bold, balanced flavor, it’s the kind of stew you’ll turn to again and again for comfort, nourishment, and a taste of something truly special.