Slow-Simmered Tanzanian Chicken Stew with Coconut Milk

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-12 · Updated 2026-05-12

A rich and aromatic chicken stew simmered in coconut milk with traditional Tanzanian spices and fresh tomatoes. This Ethiopian-inspired chicken recipe, ready in about 65 minutes, pairs coconut milk, fresh tomatoes, diced, onion, finely chopped for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 420 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds chicken thighs, bone-in and skin removed
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 2 medium (about 1 cup) fresh tomatoes, diced
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1.5 tsp salt
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped

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Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 large finely chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
2. Step 2: Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger, stirring for 1 minute until aromatic.
3. Step 3: Stir in 1 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp coriander powder, 1 tsp cumin powder, and 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; cook for 30 seconds to release their fragrance.
4. Step 4: Add 1.5 pounds chicken thighs, browning on all sides for 6-8 minutes.
5. Step 5: Incorporate 2 diced medium fresh tomatoes and 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk, stirring well.
6. Step 6: Pour in 1 cup water and season with 1.5 tsp salt. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 35-40 minutes until chicken is tender and the sauce thickens.
7. Step 7: Sprinkle 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves over the stew just before serving to add freshness.