Brazilian cuisine is known for its bold flavors and vibrant ingredients, and this Brazilian Coconut Chicken recipe captures all of that in a simple, comforting dish. Combining tender cubes of chicken with a creamy coconut milk sauce, fragrant spices, and fresh cilantro, this dish is both exotic and approachable, perfect for family dinners or a weeknight treat.
The use of coconut milk creates a rich, velvety sauce that complements the slightly spicy notes from paprika, cumin, and cayenne. Lime juice adds a refreshing brightness, while cilantro brings a fresh, herbal finish. Serve it over steamed rice to soak up all the flavorful sauce, and you have a complete, satisfying meal.
Whether you’re exploring Brazilian flavors for the first time or simply looking for a comforting, creamy chicken dish, this recipe is easy to prepare, full of flavor, and sure to impress.
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
Preparation Method
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic, ground cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using), cooking for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the cubed chicken to the pan, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are lightly browned but not fully cooked.
Step 3: Add Coconut Milk and Tomatoes
Pour in the coconut milk and drained diced tomatoes, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 4: Finish with Lime and Cilantro
Stir in lime juice and fresh cilantro, reserving a small amount of cilantro for garnish. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or cayenne to taste.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the Brazilian Coconut Chicken over steamed rice, garnished with the reserved cilantro. The creamy, flavorful sauce pairs perfectly with rice, soaking into every bite for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Tips for the Best Brazilian Coconut Chicken
- Use fresh cilantro: It adds brightness and enhances the authentic Brazilian flavor.
- Adjust the heat: Omit cayenne for a mild version, or add extra for a spicier dish.
- Coconut milk consistency: Full-fat coconut milk provides the creamiest sauce, but light coconut milk can be used for a lighter version.
- Vegetable additions: Bell peppers, spinach, or peas can be added to make the dish more colorful and nutritious.
- Meal prep friendly: This dish reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs will add extra flavor and stay juicy during cooking.
Q2: Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free thanks to the coconut milk.
Q3: Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate the chicken and sauce separately, then combine and reheat before serving.
Q4: Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Q5: What can I serve with this dish?
Steamed white or brown rice is ideal, but it also pairs well with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Brazilian Coconut Chicken: Creamy, Flavorful, and Easy
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish with tender chicken cooked in coconut milk, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. Serve with steamed rice for a delicious weeknight meal.
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
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Add chicken cubes and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
- Stir in cumin, paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Add coconut milk and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 15–20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce is slightly thickened.
- Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro.
- Serve warm over steamed rice and garnish with extra cilantro if desired.
Notes
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the spiciness.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for 2–3 days and reheat nicely.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Conclusion
Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a creamy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that brings the tastes of Brazil to your dinner table. With tender chicken, fragrant spices, and a rich coconut sauce, it’s perfect for weeknight meals, family dinners, or even casual entertaining. Simple, versatile, and delicious, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.