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Brazilian Coconut Chicken


  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Not Vegetarian

Description

A delightful fusion of flavors, Brazilian Coconut Chicken features tender chicken simmered in a creamy coconut sauce enriched with spices, ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Stir in minced garlic, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Toss in the chicken cubes and cook for 5-7 minutes, ensuring they are browned on all sides.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
  7. Add the drained diced tomatoes and lime juice, mixing well.
  8. Reduce the heat to low, letting it simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens.
  9. Stir in the chopped cilantro and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  10. Serve hot over steamed rice, garnished with additional cilantro.

Notes

Feel free to swap the chicken with shrimp or tofu for variations. This dish can also be paired with a side salad or roasted veggies.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Brazilian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Brazilian, Coconut, Chicken, Easy Recipe, Comfort Food