Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The coconut milk-based sauce provides a luscious texture that complements the tender chicken perfectly.​
• Spice Level Customizable: Adjust the cayenne pepper to tailor the heat to your preference, making it suitable for all palates.​
• Flavorful Aromatics: Ingredients like garlic, onions, and bell peppers add depth and complexity to the dish.​
• Versatile Serving Options: Pairs excellently with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.​

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces​
• 1 tablespoon 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 tablespoon tomato paste​
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin​
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander​
• 1 teaspoon paprika​
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)​
• Salt and black pepper to taste​
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)​
• Lime wedges (for serving)​

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper.​
   • In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.​
   • Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.​

2. Cook the Vegetables:

   • In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.​
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.​
   • Add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.​

3. Make the Sauce:

   • Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spices are fragrant.​
   • Add the tomato paste and cook for another 1 minute.​
   • Pour in the coconut milk and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.​

4. Combine and Cook:

   • Return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the sauce.​
   • Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the chicken in the sauce until fully cooked and tender, about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.​

5. Serve:

   • Once the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove the skillet from the heat.​
   • Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.​
   • Enjoy over rice, quinoa, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.​

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4​
• Prep Time: 15 minutes​
• Cook Time: 30 minutes​
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving​

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based version.​
• Additional Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition.​
• Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with shrimp or fish for a seafood twist.​
• Milder Flavor: Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper for a less spicy dish.​

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.​
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes.​

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, both chicken breasts and thighs work well in this recipe. Thighs tend to be juicier, while breasts are leaner.​

How can I adjust the spice level?

To reduce heat, decrease the amount of cayenne pepper. For more spice, consider adding fresh chilies or extra cayenne.​

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked dish in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.​

What sides pair well with this dish?

Steamed rice, quinoa, or crusty bread are excellent choices to accompany this flavorful chicken.​

Can I add other vegetables to the recipe?

Absolutely! Vegetables like

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