Traditional Brazilian Galinhada Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (about 4 pounds)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 cups of long-grain white rice
  • 1 teaspoon of turmeric
  • 4 cups of chicken broth
  • 1 cup of diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup of diced bell peppers
  • 1 cup of peas
  • 1 cup of corn kernels
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley and green onions for garnish

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  2. Add the chicken pieces to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they are soft and fragrant.
  4. Add the rice to the pan and stir well, ensuring each grain is coated in the oil and onion mixture.
  5. Add the turmeric to the pan and stir well, until the rice is evenly colored.
  6. Return the chicken pieces to the pan. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, bell peppers, peas, and corn kernels. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
  7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
  8. Check the seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if necessary.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley and green onions before serving.

Tools for making

  • Large pan - A pan big enough to fit the chicken and rice mixture.
  • Cutting board - To cut the chicken and chop the onion.
  • Knife - For cutting the chicken and chopping the onion and garlic.
  • Wooden spoon - To stir the ingredients in the pan.
  • Measuring cups - For accurately measuring the rice, chicken broth, and diced vegetables.
  • Measuring spoons - For measuring the turmeric and other spices.
  • Lid or cover - To cover the pan while simmering the Galinhada.

Recipe variations

  • Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken.
  • Replace the chicken with shrimp or a combination of shrimp and fish for a seafood version.
  • Add chorizo or smoked sausage for extra flavor.
  • Include other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or green beans.
  • Experiment with different spices and herbs such as paprika, cumin, or thyme.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice or lime juice for a tangy twist.
  • Make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth and replacing the chicken with tofu or tempeh.
  • For a spicier version, add diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes.
  • Try using brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier alternative.

Recipe overview

Galinhada is a one-pan Brazilian dish that combines savory chicken with vibrant vegetables and spices, all cooked together with rice for a hearty and flavorful meal. Originating from the state of Minas Gerais in Brazil, this dish is a staple in Brazilian cuisine and is often served during family gatherings and celebrations. The blend of ingredients creates a colorful and aromatic dish that is not only pleasing to the eye but also satisfying to the palate. This recipe is fairly simple to put together, requiring basic cooking skills and ingredients that are easily accessible. The result is a delicious, filling meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re new to Brazilian cuisine or a seasoned veteran, Galinhada is a dish worth adding to your cooking repertoire.

Common questions

  1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
    Yes, you can use boneless chicken for this recipe. However, using bone-in chicken adds more flavor to the dish.
  2. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
    Yes, you can use brown rice instead of white rice. Keep in mind that the cooking time may be longer, so adjust accordingly.
  3. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
    Yes, you can use frozen vegetables if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to thaw them before adding to the dish.
  4. Can I make this recipe in advance?
    Galinhada is best enjoyed fresh, but you can make it in advance and reheat it when needed. Keep in mind that the rice may absorb more liquid upon reheating, so you may need to add a little chicken broth to moisten it.
  5. Can I add other spices or herbs to this recipe?
    Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to enhance the flavor. Some popular additions include paprika, cumin, bay leaves, or thyme.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Galinhada is a comforting, one-pot chicken and rice dish that hails from the central regions of Brazil. It's traditionally served at festive occasions, with its vibrant colors and aromatic flavors bringing joy to the table. The star of the dish is the humble chicken, which is stewed with rice and a medley of vegetables, creating a rich and hearty meal. But here's the twist: the secret to its distinctive, golden hue is turmeric, a spice not originally native to Brazil. Introduced by the Portuguese colonists, turmeric quickly found its way into the hearts and kitchens of the locals, and has since become an essential ingredient in Galinhada, transforming an everyday chicken and rice dish into an exotic culinary delight.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.