Description
This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a flavorful and creamy dish featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich coconut milk sauce infused with aromatic spices, fresh ginger, and a hint of lime. Perfectly balanced with a bit of heat and brightness, it’s an authentic Brazilian main course that pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice or flatbread.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
Spices and Sauces
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
Finishing Touches
- Juice of 1 lime
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Prepare Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes, to build a flavorful base for the dish.
- Add Garlic, Ginger, and Bell Pepper: Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced red bell pepper. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and the vegetables soften slightly.
- Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken thigh chunks to the skillet. Season with ground cumin, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken until browned on all sides, about 5 to 6 minutes, which helps to lock in flavor and juices.
- Create the Sauce: Stir in the tomato paste and pour in the full-fat coconut milk. Mix well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken cook in the coconut sauce for 15 to 20 minutes, or until fully cooked and tender.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, stir in fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro for brightness and freshness. Serve hot over jasmine rice or with flatbread for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a milder dish, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
- This dish pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
- While chicken thighs provide more flavor and tenderness, chicken breasts can be used if preferred.
