Brazilian Coconut Chicken

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Introduction
This Brazilian Coconut Chicken combines creamy coconut milk, bright lime, and warm spices for a weeknight meal that feels special. Tender cubes of chicken simmer in a gently spiced tomato and coconut sauce that clings to every grain of rice. It’s simple enough for a quick dinner yet colorful and fragrant enough to impress guests. If you love bold, saucy chicken recipes you might also enjoy this baked peanut butter jelly chicken wings twist on comfort food.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This dish is a home run when you want something fast, saucy, and satisfying. The skillet method keeps cleanup easy and brings a caramelized edge to the chicken for extra flavor. Coconut milk makes the sauce rich without heaviness, and a splash of lime brightens every bite. The spice blend is flexible so you can dial the heat up or keep it mild for family-friendly dinners. Serve it over steamed rice for a colorful plate that looks as good as it tastes. If you’re exploring juicy chicken ideas, compare textures with this balsamic fig glazed chicken thighs for another flavorful option.

Flavor and Texture

The sauce is silky from the coconut milk and slightly chunky with diced tomatoes, creating contrast in every spoonful. Cumin and paprika give a warm, earthy backbone while a touch of cayenne adds a lively kick if you choose. Sautéing the chicken cubes develops a light browning that brings savory depth against the creamy base. Fresh cilantro folded in at the end introduces herby brightness and a clean finish. Lime juice lifts the richness so the dish never feels heavy.

Ingredients

* 1.5 lbs (680 g) 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 (400 ml) can coconut milk
* 1 14-ounce (400 g) can diced tomatoes, drained
* 1 tablespoon lime juice
* 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
* Steamed rice, for serving

Step by Step Instructions

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

Tips for Best Results

Use room-temperature chicken cubes so they brown evenly and quickly when they hit the skillet. Don’t overcrowd the pan while browning or the meat will steam rather than caramelize. If your coconut milk is very thick, whisk it briefly before adding to create a smoother sauce. Taste and adjust salt late in cooking since the reduced sauce can concentrate flavors. Finish with lime and cilantro right before serving for the freshest aroma and pop of color.

Storage and Make Ahead

Cool the chicken completely before storing to keep the sauce texture pleasant. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days for best flavor. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if the sauce has thickened too much. This recipe also freezes well for up to two months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Final Thought

Brazilian Coconut Chicken is an easy, fragrant weeknight winner that balances creamy and bright flavors in one skillet. It’s flexible enough for families and bold enough for dinner guests. Keep pantry-friendly ingredients on hand to make it whenever a comforting, quick meal is needed.

Conclusion

For a spicier spin and additional ideas, check out this version at Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken – Craving Home Cooked which offers flavorful tweaks and serving suggestions.