Description
A bold and flavorful Brazilian-inspired dish, Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken combines tender chicken, rich coconut milk, and aromatic spices for a perfect balance of heat and creaminess. Ideal for those who love vibrant, spicy food with a tropical twist.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño or red chili, finely chopped (optional for extra heat)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and sear until golden brown on all sides (about 5 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pan, add diced onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, and chili flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
- Add the bell pepper and jalapeño, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and coconut milk, mixing well.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, then return the chicken to the pan.
Step 4: Simmer and Serve
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens.
- Stir in lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice or your preferred side.
Notes
- Milder Version: Reduce the chili flakes and omit the jalapeño.
- Seafood Twist: Substitute chicken with shrimp or white fish.
- Extra Vegetables: Add carrots, zucchini, or spinach.
- Creamier Texture: Blend a portion of the sauce before adding the chicken back in.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Keywords: Brazilian chicken recipe, spicy coconut chicken, Brazilian coconut curry, coconut milk chicken, easy Brazilian dinner