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Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken for a Tropical Dinner Bliss

Experience the vibrant flavors of Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken, where tender chicken thighs swim in a creamy coconut sauce, making dinner a tropical delight.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Brazilian
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Thighs Tender cuts that soak up the sauce beautifully.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Essential for seasoning the chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds subtle warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Gives depth and a smoky essence.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil For searing the chicken.
For the Aromatics
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Finely chopped.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger Grated.
  • 2 medium Red Chili Peppers Sliced (jalapeño or Fresno).
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Chopped.
For the Sauce
  • 1 can Full-Fat Coconut Milk Provides creaminess.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Contributes flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Adds richness.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Pairs well with coconut.
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric Powder Adds earthiness.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Optional, for extra heat.
  • 1 each Lime Zest and juice.
For the Finishing Touches
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Chopped, for garnish.
  • 2 cups Cooked White or Brown Rice To serve with.
  • 1 each Lime Wedges For serving.
  • 1/4 cup Toasted Coconut Flakes Optional, for garnish.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • measuring cups
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Cutting Board
  • Knife

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season with kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet and sear the chicken thighs for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
  1. In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion with salt until translucent.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Spices
  1. Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, and red chili peppers. Cook until fragrant.
Step 5: Incorporate Bell Pepper and Tomato Paste
  1. Add chopped red bell pepper and tomato paste. Sauté until the pepper softens.
Step 6: Mix in the Spices
  1. Add ground cumin and turmeric powder, along with cayenne pepper if desired. Cook for 30 seconds.
Step 7: Create the Sauce
  1. Pour in chicken broth and add coconut milk, lime zest, and juice. Stir and adjust seasoning.
Step 8: Simmer the Chicken
  1. Return chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until done.
Step 9: Final Adjustments and Serving
  1. Garnish with cilantro and serve over rice with lime wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Consider marinating chicken for deeper flavor. Adjust spice level for kids and feel free to add extra vegetables.

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