Created on December 11th, 2025 at 10:48 am
A comforting dish infused with tropical flavors
Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a delightful combination of tender chicken simmered in a rich coconut milk sauce, flavored with spices and fresh herbs. This dish is special not only for its taste but also for the warmth it brings on a cool evening. The coconut milk lends a creamy texture and a sweet note that complements the savory spices perfectly. As it cooks, the kitchen fills with a comforting aroma that invites everyone to gather around the table. The contrast between the juicy chicken and the luscious sauce creates a satisfying experience, making this dish an excellent choice for family dinners or casual gatherings.
The beauty of Brazilian Coconut Chicken lies in its simplicity and the way it brings people together. With every bite, the decision between melting sweetness and savory spices creates a comforting harmony. This dish celebrates Brazilian flavors, showcasing how just a few ingredients can transform a simple meal into something memorable. Serve it with rice to soak up the beautiful sauce, and you have a nourishing meal that feels both exotic and familiar.
Why This Recipe Works
The appeal of Brazilian Coconut Chicken goes well beyond its delicious flavor. The combination of spices—such as cumin and coriander-creates depth, while the coconut milk elevates the dish’s creaminess without overpowering it. Cooking the chicken slowly allows it to absorb all the flavors, leading to tender meat that practically falls apart with a gentle touch. This dish is versatile, fitting into both casual weekday meals and special occasions.
Leftovers can be just as delightful, as the flavors continue to meld, enhancing the taste for the next day. Reheat it gently for a quick lunch or dinner, and pair it with fresh vegetables or a light salad. This is a recipe that seamlessly blends ease and flavor, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire.
Time Breakdown
This recipe requires minimal hands-on time, making it a great choice for busy days. The majority of the cooking is done while you can attend to other tasks or simply relax.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients List
- 1.5 lb (≈680 g) boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 can (14 oz or 400 ml) coconut milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup baby spinach
- Juice of 1 lime
- Optional: fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Kitchen Tools
This recipe is straightforward, requiring only basic kitchen tools to help keep cooking simple and stress-free.
- Large skillet or pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
Begin by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. This simple seasoning enhances the meat’s natural flavors. Set aside for a moment while you prepare the other ingredients.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and sear them for about 5–7 minutes, until browned on all sides. The sizzle will be satisfying as the chicken cooks to a golden hue.
Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes, until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Stir in the ground cumin and ground coriander, allowing the spices to bloom for 1–2 minutes. Their aromas will fill the kitchen, creating a warm ambiance.
Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Then, reduce the heat to a simmer, and return the chicken to the skillet. Cook for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Add the sliced bell pepper and baby spinach to the sauce, stirring gently. The spinach will wilt quickly, adding a splash of color and nutrients.
Just before serving, squeeze in the lime juice for a touch of brightness. Mix well and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if using, alongside fluffy rice to soak up the creamy sauce.
Pro Tips
- For a touch of heat, consider adding a diced jalapeño or red pepper flakes when cooking the onions.
- If you prefer white meat, boneless skinless chicken breasts work well—just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they remain juicy.
- Pair with a side of cornbread to complement the dish’s rich flavors.
- This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator; the flavors deepen as it sits.
A Satisfying Weeknight Option
Brazilian Coconut Chicken is not only rich in flavor but also wonderfully easy to prepare. The layered depths of spices combine seamlessly with the creamy coconut milk, resulting in a dish that feels both special and approachable. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining friends, it proves that comforting meals do not have to be complicated. Keep this recipe handy for those times when you crave something satisfying and delicious with minimal effort.
What to Serve With Brazilian Coconut Chicken
What complements Brazilian Coconut Chicken beautifully are sides that balance its richness and bring a fresh contrast. Steamed jasmine rice is a classic choice, soaking up the luscious sauce and enhancing the tropical notes of the dish. Consider a refreshing cucumber salad with a tangy vinaigrette to add a crisp texture that brightens every bite.
For something heartier, roasted sweet potatoes with a hint of cinnamon can create a delightful sweet and savory balance on the plate. Their natural sweetness completes the meal while providing a pleasing textural contrast. Lastly, a chilled glass of white wine or coconut agua makes for a perfect pairing, bringing a delightful tropical essence to each sip.
Nutrition Table
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Fat | 30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Brazilian Coconut Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces Approximately 680 g
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 can coconut milk (14 oz or 400 ml)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup baby spinach
- Juice of 1 lime
- Optional fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear them for about 5–7 minutes until browned.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the ground cumin and ground coriander, allowing them to bloom for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and return the chicken to the skillet. Cook for an additional 15 minutes.
- Add the sliced bell pepper and baby spinach to the sauce, stirring gently.
- Just before serving, squeeze in the lime juice and mix well. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, alongside rice to soak up the sauce.
Notes
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