Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Description

A delightful blend of vibrant flavors and rich textures, featuring tender chicken simmered in a luscious coconut milk sauce with spices, garlic, ginger, and lime.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or crushed red pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil, divided
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar or coconut sugar
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish)
  • Optional: fresh chili or jalapeño, sliced (for garnish)
  • Optional: toasted coconut flakes (for garnish)
  • Optional: cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and slice it into large, bite-sized pieces.
  2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and chili flakes. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
  4. Add remaining oil and sauté onion for 3-4 minutes, then add garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.
  5. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
  6. Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth, scraping up browned bits, then bring to a gentle simmer with the chicken.
  7. Simmer uncovered for 8-10 minutes, then stir in lime juice and brown sugar.
  8. Remove from heat and sprinkle cilantro over the dish before serving.

Notes

For a lighter option, serve alongside cauliflower rice or a fresh green salad. Adjust spice levels based on personal preference.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Searing and Simmering
  • Cuisine: Brazilian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg