This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a warm hug in a bowl! Tender chicken simmers in a creamy coconut sauce with a kick of spice, making each bite a tasty adventure!
You’ll love how easy it is to cook. Just throw everything in one pot and enjoy the cozy aroma filling your kitchen. I like to serve it over rice for a complete meal—super satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness. You can use chicken breasts instead for a leaner option, but they’ll cook faster, so watch them closely!
Coconut Milk: This is what gives the dish its creamy richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use coconut cream, but be aware it can be thicker, so add a bit more broth if needed.
Red Chilies: For a good kick, use fresh red chilies. If you’re sensitive to heat, substitute with bell peppers or remove the seeds. You can also use dried red chili flakes for a milder flavor.
Cilantro: This herb adds a fresh finish to the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try parsley or even green onions as a substitute.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Tender?
To keep the chicken tender, avoid overcooking it. Here are a few tips:
- Brown the chicken quickly on medium-high heat to lock in moisture.
- Simmer gently after adding the liquids. High heat can toughen the meat.
- Cook just until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Letting the mixture simmer with the lid on helps to steam the chicken and keep it juicy!
How to Make Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Dish:
- 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1-2 fresh red chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 can (400 ml) coconut milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30-35 minutes to cook. So, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 45 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Chicken:
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the chunked chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and brown them on all sides until they’re golden. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Cook it for about 4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, and sliced chilies, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until everything becomes fragrant. You want those wonderful flavors to come alive!
3. Add the Spices:
Now it’s time to spice things up! Stir in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using). Allow the spices to cook with the vegetables for about 1 minute. This will really enhance the flavor.
4. Combine Everything:
Return the browned chicken to the skillet. Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring well to make sure everything is combined nicely.
5. Simmer the Dish:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is completely cooked through and tender. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking!
6. Finish with Lime and Serve:
Squeeze fresh lime juice into the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
7. Enjoy!
Serve this flavorful, spicy Brazilian coconut chicken hot over steamed rice or with your favorite side dishes. Enjoy the comforting taste and aroma!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts! They will cook faster, so be sure to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Adjust the cooking time to about 15-20 minutes to ensure they don’t become dry.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas. You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure all your other ingredients are plant-based. The cooking process remains the same!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it! Just be sure to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container, where it can last up to 3 months.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Absolutely! Adjusting the spice level is easy. Use fewer chilies or omit them entirely for a milder dish. Alternatively, you can add more cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes if you want more heat!
