Brazilian Coconut Chicken

There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of tropical flair to your table. Brazilian Coconut Chicken is just that—a delightful melding of tender chicken, rich coconut milk, and zesty lime that transports you straight to the sun-kissed shores of Brazil. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner with the family or an elegant dish for special occasions, this recipe shines. The best part? It’s not only easy to whip up, but it also layers flavors in a way that’s authentically satisfying.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

So, what makes Brazilian Coconut Chicken a must-try? First off, it’s a quick and budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Perfectly balanced between creamy and zesty, it appeals to kids and adults alike, making it a win for family dinners. Beyond just being delicious, the recipe is also packed with wholesome ingredients, bringing a touch of nutrition to your plate.

“This dish became an instant family favorite! I love how the coconut milk makes the chicken so tender and flavorful.” – A satisfied cook

Preparing Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Ready to dive into making this delectable dish? You’re in for a treat. The cooking process presents a simple yet rewarding experience. In just a handful of steps—sautéing, simmering, and serving—you’ll have a meal that’s bursting with flavor.

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sauté onion until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add garlic and spices to infuse aroma—just 1 minute will do.
4. Cook chicken cubes until browned on all sides (5-7 minutes).
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Pour in coconut milk and simmer for flavor depth.
7. Stir in diced tomatoes and lime juice, letting it gently bubble away.
8. Finish with cilantro, adjust seasoning, and serve.

Gather Your Ingredients

To create this flavorful dish, you’ll need the following:

• 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

Feel free to substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian spin. You can also adjust the level of spice by omitting the cayenne pepper if preferred.

Cooking Steps

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, and optional cayenne pepper, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Introduce the chicken cubes to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides.
5. Season 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, reducing the heat to low to let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
8. Toss in the chopped cilantro, adjusting the seasoning if needed.
9. Serve hot over steamed rice, garnished with extra cilantro for a pop of flavor.

Tips for Serving

When it comes to serving Brazilian Coconut Chicken, there are endless possibilities. The creamy coconut sauce pairs beautifully with fluffy steamed rice, but you can also try it with quinoa or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

For an added crunch, consider serving it alongside some crispy fried plantains or a fresh cucumber salad. A drizzle of extra lime juice can brighten up the dish, enhancing the tropical flavors that make this recipe special.

Keeping Brazilian Coconut Chicken Fresh Longer

Storing leftovers is a breeze! Allow the Brazilian Coconut Chicken to cool entirely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, or microwave in short intervals until warmed through.

If you need to store it longer, consider freezing the chicken in freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just remember to label your containers with the date!

Pro Chef Tips

• Brown Your Chicken: Ensure the chicken is nicely browned before adding the coconut milk; this adds depth of flavor to the dish.
• Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic, onion, and cilantro for a more vibrant taste.
• Zest It Up: Grating a little lime zest into the dish right before serving can really elevate the flavor profile.

Creative Twists

While Brazilian Coconut Chicken is fantastic as is, there are many ways to put your own spin on it. Why not try adding some vegetables? Bell peppers or spinach can be stirring in during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color. For a kick of flavor, a spoonful of adobo sauce or chili paste can easily be mixed in, creating a delightful fusion of tastes.

You could also experiment with different types of proteins, such as shrimp or fish, to change up the texture of the dish while retaining that wonderful coconut flavor.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

Typically, this dish takes about 45 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the chicken and sauce a day in advance and simply reheat before serving.

What should I do with leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to reheat them thoroughly!

Is this dish spicy?

The cayenne pepper is optional, so you can make it mild. Adjust the spice level according to your preference!

With its tropical taste and simple preparation, Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a recipe that deserves a permanent place in your meal rotation. Enjoy the rich flavors and the smiles around your table!

Brazilian Coconut Chicken

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• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

A comforting dish featuring tender chicken cooked in rich coconut milk and zesty lime, perfect for family dinners and special occasions.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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)
• 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

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sauté onion until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add garlic, cumin, paprika, and optional cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Cook chicken cubes until browned on all sides (5-7 minutes).
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Pour in coconut milk and simmer for depth of flavor.
7. Stir in diced tomatoes and lime juice; let simmer gently for 15-20 minutes.
8. Finish with cilantro, adjust seasoning, and serve hot over steamed rice.

Notes

For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas. Adjust spice level by omitting cayenne pepper.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sautéing, Simmering
• Cuisine: Brazilian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: Brazilian, Coconut Chicken, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Family Meal