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Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken served in a creamy coconut milk sauce

Savory Brazilian Coconut Chicken


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  • Author: By Molly
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

A cozy, creamy dish made with tender chicken simmered in a rich coconut milk sauce, perfectly spiced for a comforting meal.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 can full-fat coconut milk (For the creamiest sauce.)
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (Thighs are juicier; breasts are leaner.)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped (Base of flavor.)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (Adds aroma and flavor.)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste (Adds body to the sauce.)
  • 1 tbsp paprika (For warm color and flavor.)
  • 1 tsp turmeric (Adds color and earthy notes.)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or neutral oil (For searing.)
  • 1 lime, juiced (Brightens the dish at the end.)
  • 1 bell pepper sliced thin (For sweetness and color.)
  • to taste salt and black pepper (Adjust to taste.)
  • optional fresh cilantro or parsley (For garnish.)


Instructions

Preparation

  1. Cut chicken into bite-size pieces or leave thighs whole. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Warm a skillet over medium-high heat with a swirl of oil and sear the chicken until golden on both sides. Transfer to a plate.

Build the Base

  1. Reduce heat to medium. Add more oil if pan looks dry and sauté chopped onion and bell pepper until soft.
  2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  3. Add tomato paste, paprika, turmeric, and a pinch of cumin. Cook for about a minute.

Simmer and Finish

  1. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine.
  2. Add the seared chicken and any juices. Simmer gently until chicken is cooked through and sauce thickens slightly.
  3. Taste and adjust salt. Turn off heat and squeeze in fresh lime.
  4. Serve and garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley if desired.

Notes

For a thicker sauce, let it bubble for a few extra minutes or whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch with water before simmering. Freezes well for up to two months.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: dinner, Main Course
  • Cuisine: brazilian, Comfort Food