When the cool winds of autumn start to whisper, I find myself drawn to dishes that combine warmth and comfort in every bite. One such gem is the African Chicken Peanut Stew, also known as Mafé. This traditional West African delight captivates the senses with its nutty richness and aromatic spices, transporting you to vibrant markets filled with the scent of simmering meals.

I stumbled upon this hearty recipe during a quest to blend comfort with a bit of adventure in my cooking. It’s perfect for those who crave home-cooked meals that don’t compromise on flavor but also want something new after too many fast-food nights. With tender chicken enveloped in a creamy peanut sauce, the stew brings together a delightful medley of textures that just begs to be sopped up with crusty bread or steamed rice. Let’s dive into making this enchanting dish that’s bound to become a favorite at your dinner table!

Why is African Chicken Peanut Stew a Must-Try?

Comforting Warmth: Embrace the cozy vibes of this dish, perfect for those chilly evenings spent at home.
Rich, Nutty Flavor: Enjoy the delightful blend of peanut butter and spices that creates an irresistible taste sensation.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, dinner is a breeze, even for beginner cooks.
Versatile Options: Customize your stew with chickpeas for a vegetarian delight or a spicy twist with diced chili!
Family Favorite: This hearty stew is sure to please everyone at the table, making any meal feel special.
Give it a try, and you may also find it’s a fantastic alternative to your go-to meals!

African Chicken Peanut Stew Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need for a comforting and hearty African Chicken Peanut Stew.

For the Stew

Chicken – The primary protein source; adds tenderness. Substitute with turkey or tofu for a variation.
Peanut Butter – Provides creaminess and depth. Use natural, unsweetened peanut butter for better flavor.
Onions – Adds sweetness and flavor base. Yellow or white onions work well; avoid red for a clearer broth.
Garlic – Enhances flavor; fresh is best. Substitute with garlic powder (1/8 tsp per clove).
Ginger – Adds warmth and zest. Use fresh ginger for a punch; powdered ginger can be used in a pinch.
Tomatoes – Provides acidity to balance flavors. Canned tomatoes can substitute fresh tomatoes.
Chicken Broth – Adds moisture and depth; use low-sodium version for better control over salt levels.
Spices (e.g., cumin, coriander, paprika) – Add warm, aromatic notes. Adjust according to personal taste; cayenne can add heat.

How to Make African Chicken Peanut Stew

Prep Chicken: Begin by seasoning chicken pieces with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor. Make sure each piece is well-coated to lock in that savory goodness.
Cook Chicken: In a large pot, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and brown them for about 6-8 minutes until they achieve a golden color. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds a flavor foundation for your stew.
Add Spices: Stir in the ginger and your choice of dry spices. Toast them for about a minute until they become aromatic, releasing their rich scents into the air.
Mix Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with the creamy peanut butter and chicken broth. Stir everything together until well combined to create that luscious, savory sauce.
Simmer Stew: Return the browned chicken back into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 20-30 minutes until the flavors meld beautifully and the chicken is fully cooked.
Adjust Seasoning: After simmering, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. It’s the perfect moment to make it suit your taste!
Serve: Garnish your finished stew with freshly chopped herbs, such as cilantro, and serve it hot with steamed rice or crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy the warmth and richness together!

Optional: Add a squeeze of lime juice for a zesty kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for African Chicken Peanut Stew

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions, garlic, and ginger elevate the flavor. Dried or powdered alternatives lack the same vibrancy.
Adjust Peanut Butter: Start with a small amount of peanut butter, then gradually add more for richness. Too much at once can overwhelm the stew.
Monitor Cooking Time: Overcooking can dry out the chicken. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F for perfectly tender meat.
Blend for Creaminess: For a smoother texture, blend a portion of the stew before serving. This intensifies the creamy richness of the African Chicken Peanut Stew.
Taste as You Go: Always taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process. This ensures a perfectly balanced flavor.
Customize Veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, for added nutrition and texture.

Make Ahead Options

These wonderful African Chicken Peanut Stew preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop your onions, garlic, and ginger and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, the chicken can be seasoned in advance and marinated in the fridge for up to 24 hours to enhance its flavor. For a time-saving benefit, you can even prepare the whole stew ahead of time; simply cool it down completely and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat on the stove until piping hot and adjust seasonings if necessary. With these make-ahead options, you’ll enjoy the same deliciousness with minimal effort on busy evenings!

Storage Tips for African Chicken Peanut Stew

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the stew fresh while letting the flavors deepen.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stew in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the stew has thickened.

Serving Size: Portion out the stew for easy meals throughout the week, making it a convenient go-to for those busy nights!

What to Serve with African Chicken Peanut Stew?

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this comforting stew with memorable side dishes that enhance its rich flavors.

Steamed Rice: A classic choice, this fluffy companion absorbs the savory sauce beautifully, making each bite a delightful experience.
Crusty Bread: Serve a warm, crusty loaf on the side to dip into the creamy stew, ensuring not a drop goes to waste.
Couscous: Light and fluffy, this versatile grain adds a unique texture that complements the stew’s hearty, rich sauce while soaking up its flavors.
Sauteed Greens: Fresh greens like kale or spinach add a pop of color and nutrition, creating a lovely contrast to the creamy stew.
Chili Lime Slaw: A crunchy slaw with a zesty kick balances the stew’s richness, offering a refreshing bite that awakens the palate.
Spiced Plantains: The natural sweetness of fried plantains adds a delicious touch, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors.
Minty Yogurt Sauce: A cool yogurt sauce with a hint of mint can help cut through the dish’s warmth, refreshing your palate between bites.
Coconut Water: A crisp, refreshing drink that complements the stew’s richness and adds a tropical twist to your meal.

Explore these pairings to create a well-rounded feast that warms the heart and delights the senses!

African Chicken Peanut Stew Variations

Customize your cooking adventure with these fun twists that will add layers of flavor and texture to your African Chicken Peanut Stew!

Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with chickpeas or cauliflower to create a hearty vegetarian delight that still packs a punch of flavor.
Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add diced chili peppers or a splash of hot sauce while simmering to turn up the warmth.
Nut-Free: Use sunbutter or tahini instead of peanut butter for a delicious, nut-free alternative that’s just as creamy and rich.
Coconut Cream: Stir in some coconut cream at the end for an extra velvety texture and a hint of tropical sweetness.
Sweet Potato Addition: Chunky sweet potatoes will not only add sweetness but also bring a wonderful creaminess to the stew as they cook down.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley during cooking for a vibrant, fragrant finish that elevates your dish.
Lime Zest: A touch of lime zest just before serving can brighten the flavors and add a refreshing zing to your hearty stew.
Lentil Power: Incorporate lentils alongside or in place of chicken; they’ll soak up the flavors beautifully while providing a protein boost.

Embrace these variations, and you’ll find that each version tells a delicious story of its own!

African Chicken Peanut Stew Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for African Chicken Peanut Stew?
Absolutely! I recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces for the best flavor and tenderness. However, if you prefer a leaner option, boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breast work well too. If you’re looking for a vegetarian twist, chickpeas or tofu can be excellent substitutes.

How do I know if my peanut butter is fresh enough for the stew?
Very! You want to use natural, unsweetened peanut butter that has a rich aroma and creamy texture. Look for any signs of separation; if oil sits on top, just stir it back in. Avoid peanut butter with dark spots or a rancid smell, as these indicate it’s past its prime.

How should I store leftovers of African Chicken Peanut Stew?
After dinner, let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container—this keeps it fresh! You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, which allows those delicious flavors to deepen even more. Just remember to tuck any unused portions into the fridge right after cooking!

Can I freeze African Chicken Peanut Stew? If so, how?
Definitely! To freeze, allow the stew to cool to room temperature, then pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Label with the date, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.

What should I do if my stew is too spicy?
If your African Chicken Peanut Stew turns out spicier than you’d like, don’t worry! You can add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt to the stew to cool it down. Alternatively, adding a bit more peanut butter or a splash of coconut milk can help balance out the heat without compromising the overall flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for those with nut allergies?
Sadly, no; this stew contains peanut butter, which isn’t safe for those with nut allergies. However, you can try using sunflower seed butter (like sunbutter) or tahini as nut-free alternatives. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavor in these substitutions!