Description
Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a vibrant and creamy dish with tender chicken simmered in coconut milk, infused with Brazilian spices, and a spicy kick. It’s a perfect blend of rich and refreshing flavors.
Ingredients
2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1–2 fresh red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
1 can (14 oz/400 ml) coconut milk
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken chunks and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In the same pan, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 4 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and chopped chilies, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Cook the spices for about 1 minute to release their aroma.
- Return the browned chicken to the pan and pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth. Stir well to combine everything.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Stir in the lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.
Notes
If you prefer a thicker sauce, use coconut cream instead of coconut milk.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat the dish by adding a little chicken broth or coconut milk to prevent it from drying out.
For a spicier dish, increase the number of chilies or add hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
