Bring the flavors of Brazil into your kitchen with Brazilian Coconut Chicken, a vibrant, creamy, and aromatic dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich coconut-tomato sauce infused with aromatic spices, garlic, and lime, delivering a tropical twist on classic comfort food.
The magic of this dish lies in its balance of flavors. Coconut milk provides a luscious, creamy base, while cumin and paprika give warmth and depth. Cayenne adds optional heat, garlic adds aroma, and fresh cilantro and lime juice brighten the overall flavor profile. Paired with steamed rice, this meal is both satisfying and visually appealing, perfect for serving to family or guests.
Brazilian Coconut Chicken is not only flavorful but also versatile. It’s easy to prepare, can be made in one pot, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy a milder flavor or a spicier kick, this dish can be adapted to your liking.
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
- ½ 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
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Steamed rice, for serving
Each ingredient has a purpose. Olive oil creates a flavorful cooking base, chicken provides lean protein, and onions and garlic add depth. Coconut milk gives creaminess, tomatoes add subtle acidity, and spices provide warmth and balance. Fresh lime juice and cilantro brighten the dish for a fresh, tropical finish.
Preparation Method
Follow these steps to make Brazilian Coconut Chicken that’s creamy, tender, and bursting with flavor:
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the cubed chicken to the pan. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, paprika, and optional cayenne. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides.
Step 3: Add Coconut Milk and Tomatoes
Pour in the coconut milk and add the drained diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine, ensuring the chicken is fully coated in the creamy sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has slightly thickened.
Step 4: Finish with Lime and Cilantro
Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or cayenne if needed.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the Brazilian Coconut Chicken over steamed rice. Garnish with extra cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. For an extra tropical touch, add a few lime wedges on the side.
Tips for the Perfect Brazilian Coconut Chicken
- Uniform chicken cubes: Cutting chicken into similar sizes ensures even cooking.
- Creamy consistency: Simmer the sauce gently to prevent coconut milk from curdling.
- Adjust heat: Add or reduce cayenne pepper depending on your spice tolerance.
- Flavor infusion: Let the dish sit for 10 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld.
- Make ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is rich in protein from the chicken, while coconut milk provides healthy fats and a creamy texture. Tomatoes add vitamins and antioxidants, and fresh cilantro contributes phytonutrients. Served with rice, it becomes a balanced, filling meal suitable for a family dinner or a tropical-themed meal.
Variations
- Vegetarian version: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based alternative.
- Extra vegetables: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for more color and nutrients.
- Spicy version: Include chopped fresh chili or a teaspoon of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Coconut rice: Cook rice with coconut milk for an even richer, tropical flavor.
- Slow cooker option: Combine all ingredients (except lime and cilantro) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
A: Yes, chicken thighs are slightly more flavorful and remain tender, perfect for this dish.
Q: Can I use light coconut milk?
A: Yes, light coconut milk works, but the sauce will be slightly less creamy.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat slowly to maintain creaminess.
Q: What can I serve with Brazilian Coconut Chicken?
A: Steamed rice is traditional, but it also pairs well with quinoa, couscous, or roasted vegetables.
Brazilian Coconut Chicken: A Creamy, Flavorful Tropical Delight
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A flavorful Brazilian-inspired chicken dish cooked in a rich coconut milk and tomato sauce, spiced with cumin, paprika, and a touch of cayenne. Perfect served over steamed rice.
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
- ½ 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
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Steamed rice, for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until softened.
- Add chicken cubes and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
- Stir in cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add coconut milk and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce is slightly thickened.
- Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve over steamed rice and garnish with extra cilantro.
Notes
- Adjust the heat by omitting cayenne or adding more depending on preference.
- Can substitute chicken thighs for juicier meat.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing / Simmering
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Conclusion
Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a creamy, aromatic, and tropical dish that’s perfect for bringing exotic flavors into your home kitchen. Tender chicken simmered in a coconut-tomato sauce with warm spices, bright lime, and fresh cilantro creates a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Whether served over steamed rice for a weeknight dinner or made for a special gathering, this dish is easy to prepare, versatile, and sure to impress. Enjoy the tropical flavors of Brazil with every bite, and don’t forget the extra cilantro garnish for freshness and color.