Brazilian Coconut Chicken

why make this recipe

Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a delightful dish that brings tropical flavors right to your kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, creamy coconut milk, and fresh tomatoes makes it a comforting meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you are cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress everyone with its rich taste and vibrant ingredients.

how to make Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs (680 g) chicken breast, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 14-ounce (400 ml) can coconut milk
• 1 14-ounce (400 g) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• Steamed rice, for serving

Directions:

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if you like a bit of heat) and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the chicken cubes into the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides.
5. Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and lime juice.
8. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
9. Stir in the chopped cilantro and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
10. Serve hot over steamed rice, garnished with extra cilantro.

how to serve Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Serve your Brazilian Coconut Chicken hot over a bed of steamed rice. The rice will soak up the creamy coconut sauce, making every bite delicious. You can sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top for an added pop of color and flavor.

how to store Brazilian Coconut Chicken

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat it again, simply reheat it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

tips to make Brazilian Coconut Chicken

• For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in lime juice and spices for a few hours before cooking.
• Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper based on your spice preference.
• To make it a complete meal, you can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach while cooking.

variation

You can easily switch up the protein in this recipe by using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. This dish can also be made in a slow cooker by adding all the ingredients and letting it cook on low for 6-8 hours.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.

2. What can I serve with Brazilian Coconut Chicken?
Besides steamed rice, you can also serve it with quinoa, pasta, or a fresh salad for a lighter option.

3. Is this dish spicy?
The dish has a bit of heat from the cayenne pepper, but you can leave it out if you prefer a milder flavor.

Print