Description
Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Brazil right to your dinner table. Featuring tender chicken thighs marinated in aromatic spices and simmered in a creamy coconut sauce, this recipe is perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. The harmonious blend of garlic, paprika, and cayenne pepper creates a tantalizing marinade, while the rich coconut milk adds depth and creaminess. Serve it over fluffy rice for a satisfying meal that will impress your family or guests.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine chicken thighs with minced garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Sauté vegetables: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and red bell pepper; sauté until soft (about 5 minutes).
- Add spices: Stir in ground cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika; cook for another minute.
- Create the sauce: Add diced tomatoes, coconut milk, chicken broth, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper to the pan. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook the chicken: Introduce marinated chicken pieces into the skillet; simmer gently for about 20 minutes until cooked through.
- Serve: Remove bay leaf and serve over cooked rice garnished with fresh cilantro.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 374
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 547mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 115mg