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Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Creamy Brazilian Coconut Chicken for Cozy Dinner Nights

Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a deliciously creamy dish perfect for cozy dinner nights, featuring tender chicken in a rich coconut sauce.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Brazilian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 lbs Chicken Breast Feel free to use chicken thighs for a richer taste.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Any neutral oil works too if you’re out of olive.
  • 1 medium Onion, chopped Shallots can serve as a worthy substitute.
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced Fresh is best, but 1 teaspoon of powdered garlic can work in a pinch.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin You can omit it if you don’t have it on hand.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika can be used for a different depth of flavor.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Optional; omit for a milder experience.
  • Salt and Pepper Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
For the Creamy Base
  • 1 can Coconut Milk Provides creaminess and tropical flavor.
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes, drained Fresh tomatoes can be used for a fresher touch.
  • 1 tablespoon Lime Juice Fresh lime juice is ideal, though bottled can work.
  • 0.25 cup Fresh Cilantro, chopped Parsley can be a stand-in if needed.
To Serve
  • Steamed Rice Jasmine or basmati recommended.

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Sauté 1 medium chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add 1.5 lbs of chicken breast, cut into cubes, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Pour in 1 can of coconut milk, stirring to combine. Simmer for 3-5 minutes.
  7. Mix in 1 can of drained diced tomatoes and 1 tablespoon lime juice. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  8. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes.
  9. Stir in 0.25 cup chopped fresh cilantro and adjust seasoning if needed.
  10. Serve hot over steamed rice, garnished with extra cilantro.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This dish is perfect for meal prep, should be stored accurately to maintain flavor and creaminess.

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