Name: Galinhada (Brazilian Chicken and Rice)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Brazilian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 whole chicken (cut into pieces); 1 onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tomatoes, chopped; 2 cups long-grain rice; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup peas (optional); 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

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Galinhada (Brazilian Chicken and Rice) is a comforting and flavorful Brazilian dish made with tender chicken, aromatic spices, and perfectly cooked rice. This one-pot meal is a staple in Brazilian cuisine, offering a balance of bold flavors and hearty ingredients. It’s ideal for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with friends.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 whole chicken (cut into pieces)

1 onion, chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tomatoes, chopped

2 cups long-grain rice

4 cups chicken broth

1 teaspoon turmeric

1 teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon cumin

½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

¼ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup peas (optional)

¼ cup cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

I heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. I add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides, then remove them and set them aside.

In the same pot, I sauté the chopped onion and garlic for about 3 minutes until the onion turns translucent.

I stir in the chopped tomatoes, turmeric, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper, letting them cook for another 3 minutes.

Next, I add the rice, ensuring it gets well coated with the flavorful mixture.

I pour in the chicken broth and return the chicken pieces to the pot, bringing everything to a boil.

Once boiling, I reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes until the rice is fully cooked and the chicken is tender.

If I’m using peas, I add them in the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Finally, I fluff the rice and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings: 6

Variations

Spicy Kick: I sometimes add red pepper flakes or diced chili peppers for extra heat.

Vegetable Boost: Bell peppers, carrots, or corn make great additions for more texture and flavor.

Different Proteins: While chicken is traditional, I’ve also tried this dish with shrimp or sausage for a different twist.

Coconut Twist: A splash of coconut milk instead of some of the broth gives a creamy and slightly sweet touch.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration: I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing: This dish freezes well. I let it cool completely, then freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating: I reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep the rice from drying out. The microwave works too, but I cover it to retain moisture.

FAQs

How do I keep the rice from getting mushy?

I make sure to use the correct ratio of broth to rice and avoid stirring too much while it’s cooking. Keeping the lid on helps the rice absorb the liquid properly.

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes! Boneless chicken thighs or breasts work well and cook slightly faster than bone-in pieces.

What can I serve with Galinhada?

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but I like to serve it with a fresh salad, fried plantains, or Brazilian cheese bread (pão de queijo).

Can I make Galinhada in a rice cooker?

Yes! I brown the chicken and sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to the rice cooker and cook as I would for regular rice.

Is Galinhada gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check the labels on store-bought broth for hidden gluten.

Conclusion

Galinhada is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings the warmth and flavors of Brazil to my kitchen. It’s easy to make, packed with bold spices, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether I’m cooking for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this one-pot wonder never disappoints.

Recipe:

Galinhada (Brazilian Chicken and Rice)

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Galinhada is a classic Brazilian one-pot chicken and rice dish packed with aromatic spices, tender chicken, and fluffy rice. This comforting meal is infused with turmeric, paprika, and cumin, creating a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy dinner or gathering.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add chicken pieces and brown them on all sides. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic for 3 minutes until translucent.
Stir in tomatoes, turmeric, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 3 minutes.
Add rice, stirring to coat it with the flavorful mixture.
Pour in chicken broth and return chicken pieces to the pot. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until rice is cooked and chicken is tender.
If using peas, add them in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Fluff rice and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.