Description
Experience the rich, creamy flavors of Brazil with this incredible Brazilian Coconut Chicken recipe. Featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in fragrant coconut milk and a blend of aromatic spices, this dish is a comforting and exotic meal perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it brings a taste of Brazilian cuisine straight to your kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- Salt and pepper to taste
Aromatics & Spices
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Season them generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the aromatics and cooking the chicken.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet. Brown the chicken on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes, ensuring a nice sear and locking in juices.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) over the chicken. Stir well to evenly coat the pieces with these flavorful spices.
- Pour in Coconut Milk: Slowly add the coconut milk into the skillet, stirring to combine all ingredients smoothly. This will create a rich and creamy base for the dish.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and allow the chicken to simmer gently in the sauce for about 15 minutes. This step ensures the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and add more salt and pepper if needed to balance the flavors perfectly.
- Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top for a fresh, herbal finish.
- Serve: Plate the Brazilian Coconut Chicken while hot and offer lime wedges on the side to add a zesty burst of freshness when squeezed over the dish.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase cayenne pepper according to preference.
- Serve with rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious coconut sauce.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer sauce, or light coconut milk for a lower calorie option.
- Fresh lime juice added just before serving brightens the overall flavor.
