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Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Creamy Brazilian Coconut Chicken for a Cozy Weeknight Dinner

Experience the tropical flavors of Brazilian Coconut Chicken, a creamy one-pan dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
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 pound Chicken Breast substitute chicken thighs for richer taste
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For the Aromatics
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil any neutral oil can do
  • 1 medium Onion yellow or white onion
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced; garlic powder can be used
For the Spices
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin substitute with coriander if unavailable
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika smoked paprika enhances flavor
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper optional for heat
For the Sauce
  • 1 can Coconut Milk or heavy cream or plant-based milk
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes drained; fresh tomatoes can be used
  • 2 tablespoons Lime Juice fresh lime is optimal
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro chopped; parsley can be an alternative
For Serving
  • 2 cups Steamed Rice jasmine or basmati rice recommended

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat the Oil: Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, about 2 minutes.
  2. Sauté the Onion: Add the chopped onion to the hot oil and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
  3. Incorporate Garlic and Spices: Stir in minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper, cooking for an additional minute.
  4. Brown the Chicken: Add diced chicken breast, cooking for 5-7 minutes until nicely browned on all sides.
  5. Season to Taste: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken and stir to coat evenly.
  6. Create the Sauce: Pour in one can of coconut milk, stirring gently and bringing to a gentle simmer for 3-4 minutes.
  7. Add Tomatoes and Lime Juice: Stir in drained diced tomatoes and freshly squeezed lime juice, allowing to simmer for another minute.
  8. Simmer the Dish: Reduce heat to low, partially cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  9. Finish with Fresh Cilantro: Stir in chopped fresh cilantro, adjusting seasonings as desired.
  10. Serve Over Rice: Serve the coconut chicken hot over steamed rice, garnishing with extra cilantro.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 16gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, store chicken and sauce separately if possible when refrigerating leftovers.

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