Description
This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a bold, creamy dish made with coconut milk, aromatic spices, and tender chicken. Perfect over rice or with crusty bread, it’s an easy and flavorful dinner option.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes)
- 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat preferred)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin, and coriander.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and brown on all sides.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the chopped red bell pepper and tomatoes, allowing them to soften slightly.
- Simmer with Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Adjust Seasoning: Stir in red pepper flakes for heat, a pinch of sugar to balance flavors, and lime juice for a bright, citrusy finish.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top and serve hot over rice or with warm crusty bread.
Notes
- Protein Swap: Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different take on the dish.
- Extra Heat: Add chopped fresh chilies or increase the red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in spinach, kale, or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
- Creamier Texture: Add a spoonful of peanut butter for a thicker, nuttier sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Keywords: Spicy coconut chicken, Brazilian chicken recipe, creamy coconut chicken, easy chicken dinner, Brazilian cuisine