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Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Savory Brazilian Coconut Chicken Ready in Under 30 Minutes

This Brazilian Coconut Chicken recipe combines tender chicken with creamy coconut milk and vibrant spices, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Brazilian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Base
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast Cubed for even cooking.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing.
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
For the Aromatics and Spices
  • 1 onion Finely chopped.
  • 3 cloves garlic Minced.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin For authentic flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Sweet or smoked.
  • a pinch cayenne pepper Optional for heat.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 1 can coconut milk Canned varieties work best.
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes Drained well.
  • 1 lime juice Freshly squeezed.
  • a handful fresh cilantro For garnish and flavor.
To Serve
  • 4 cups steamed rice Fluffy rice as a base.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add 1 finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Next, introduce 3 minced garlic cloves along with 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently, until the spices are aromatic.
  2. Stir in 1 pound of cubed boneless, skinless chicken breast. Sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until it’s lightly browned on all sides and cooked through. As the chicken cooks, season it generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
  3. Pour in 1 can of coconut milk, stirring gently to combine with the chicken. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, allowing the coconut milk to warm through and bubble lightly. Incorporate 1 cup of drained diced tomatoes and the juice of one lime, stirring well until all ingredients are blended harmoniously.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and let the Brazilian Coconut Chicken simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and monitor the sauce's consistency. Cook until the chicken is tender and the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Once the chicken is fully coated in the sauce, stir in a handful of chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Serve the Brazilian Coconut Chicken hot over a bed of fluffy steamed rice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Marinate chicken for 30 minutes in lime juice and spices before cooking for enhanced flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

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