Description
This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a flavorful and hearty dish featuring tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich coconut milk and tomato sauce, infused with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, paprika, and a touch of cayenne for heat. Paired with vibrant bell peppers and garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges, it offers a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and fresh flavors ideal for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Sauté and Sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Garnish and Serving
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, cook the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the red and yellow bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spices release their aroma. Add the tomato paste and cook for another minute. Pour in the coconut milk and drained diced tomatoes, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Combine & Cook: Return the browned chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it thoroughly in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens.
- Serve & Enjoy: Remove from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Notes
- You can adjust the cayenne pepper quantity to make the dish milder or spicier according to your preference.
- Using chicken thighs will keep the meat juicier, but chicken breasts are a leaner alternative.
- Ensure to drain the diced tomatoes to avoid making the sauce too watery.
- For a richer flavor, you can add a squeeze of lime juice to the sauce before serving.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
