Name: Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Brazilian
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into cubes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat); Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 14-ounce can coconut milk; 1 14-ounce can diced tomatoes, drained; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish); Steamed rice, for serving

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Introduction

Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a flavorful, comforting dish that combines tender chicken with creamy coconut milk and a blend of aromatic spices. This one-pan meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner, served over steamed rice for a satisfying and delicious experience.

The image shows a white plate placed on a white marbled surface, filled with three main layers: on one side, there is a bed of fluffy white rice with distinct grains; next to it, a vibrant creamy orange curry sauce with chunks of tender chicken scattered throughout, each piece coated evenly with the sauce; sprinkled across the dish are fresh green herbs adding a pop of color. Atop the rice, two slices of lime are neatly placed, adding a bright touch. The texture of the curry appears smooth and rich, contrasting with the soft rice. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 14-ounce can coconut milk
1 14-ounce can diced tomatoes, drained
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Steamed rice, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the chicken cubes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and lime juice.
Step 5: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens.
Step 6: Stir in the chopped cilantro and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot over steamed rice, garnished with extra cilantro.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lime juice, garlic, and spices for a few hours before cooking.
Add vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or spinach during cooking for added nutrition and color.
Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu to create a different protein variation of this dish.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. The sauce may thicken upon standing; add a splash of water or coconut milk when reheating if needed.

How to Serve

The dish features a white round plate with two main sections: on the right is a fluffy mound of white rice, and on the left a rich, creamy curry with visible chunks of tender meat covered in an orange sauce, garnished with fresh green herbs. A wedge of lime sits on the edge of the rice, adding a bright yellow accent to the plate. The creamy curry sauce has a smooth texture with specks of red and green spices, giving it a vibrant look. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken instead of fresh chicken breast?

It’s best to use fresh chicken breast for this recipe to ensure proper cooking and texture. Canned chicken would not hold up well in the simmering process and could alter the dish’s flavor and consistency.

Is this dish spicy?

The heat level depends on the amount of cayenne pepper you add. The recipe includes 1/2 teaspoon as optional—reduce or omit it if you prefer a milder flavor.