Description
This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a one-pan wonder bursting with flavor! Tender chicken is simmered in a creamy coconut milk sauce infused with bold Brazilian spices, sweet bell peppers, and juicy tomatoes. It’s cozy, exotic, and perfect for both easy weeknights and dinner parties. Naturally gluten- and dairy-free, this dish brings a tropical flair to your table with minimal fuss!
Ingredients
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1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
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1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
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1 medium yellow onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 red bell pepper, sliced
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1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
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2 medium tomatoes, diced
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1 (14 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
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Juice of 1 lime
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
Brazilian Spice Mix:
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2 tsp ground paprika
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1 tsp ground cumin
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½ tsp ground coriander
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½ tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
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¼ tsp turmeric (optional)
Instructions
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Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear until golden on both sides, about 3–4 minutes per side. Set aside.
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In the same pan, sauté onions and garlic over medium heat until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
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Add bell peppers and tomatoes. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
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Stir in the paprika, cumin, coriander, chili flakes, and turmeric. Let spices toast for 1 minute.
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Pour in the coconut milk and stir well. Bring to a gentle simmer.
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Return chicken to the skillet, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 10–15 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked and sauce has thickened slightly.
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Stir in lime juice, adjust salt and spice to taste, and serve hot.
Notes
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For less heat, reduce chili flakes or skip them altogether.
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This dish works beautifully with shrimp or tofu as a protein swap.
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Add spinach, zucchini, or kale in the final 5 minutes for extra veggies.
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Full-fat coconut milk is key for a rich, creamy sauce—avoid light versions for best results.
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Serve over rice, cauliflower rice, or even roasted plantains!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Brazilian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 21g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: Spicy Brazilian coconut chicken, creamy chicken curry, one-pan chicken, Brazilian chicken recipe