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Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken: A Creamy, Tropical Escape in a Bowl


  • Author: Nora
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 Servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

A vibrant and creamy Brazilian-inspired chicken stew featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich coconut milk and tomato sauce with turmeric, cumin, and fresh lime.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into chunks)
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 large Yellow onion (diced)
  • 1 Red bell pepper (diced)
  • 1 Jalapeño pepper (minced)
  • 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 1 tbsp Fresh ginger (grated)
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) Full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 can (14 oz) Crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp Ground turmeric
  • 1 tsp Ground cumin
  • 1 tsp Ground coriander
  • 1 tsp Paprika
  • 1/2 tsp Cayenne pepper
  • 1 tbsp Fresh lime juice
  • Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season chicken chunks with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika. Let sit for 10 minutes.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until golden brown (about 3-4 mins per side). Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, sauté onion and bell pepper for 5 minutes until soft. Add garlic, ginger, and jalapeño; cook for 1 minute.
  4. Stir in turmeric, cumin, coriander, cayenne, and remaining paprika. Toast spices for 30 seconds.
  5. Pour in crushed tomatoes and coconut milk. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
  6. Return chicken to the pan. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
  7. Stir in fresh lime juice and adjust seasoning with salt.
  8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over rice.

Notes

  • Chicken: Thighs are recommended for tenderness, but breasts can be used if cooking time is reduced.
  • Spice Level: Adjust cayenne pepper and jalapeño seeds to control the heat.
  • Serving: Best served with white rice, farofa, or crusty bread.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Brazilian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (with sauce)
  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 34g
  • Saturated Fat: 22g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 115mg

Keywords: Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken, Brazilian Chicken Curry, Moqueca de Frango, Dairy Free Chicken Recipe, Coconut Milk Chicken, Easy Spicy Chicken Stew