Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Tropical flavors collide in this vibrant Brazilian Coconut Chicken, a dish that combines succulent bites of chicken with the soothing creaminess of coconut milk and a zing of lime. Each forkful bursts with warmth from paprika and cumin, while fresh cilantro adds a lively herbal note that dances on your palate. The interplay of sweet coconut and tangy tomatoes turns every bite into a small celebration, transporting you straight to a sun-kissed beach despite being right in your own kitchen. As a beginner-friendly dinner idea, it’s designed to be approachable without sacrificing any of the joy or sophistication that makes Brazilian food so irresistible.

What makes this dish truly special is its simplicity: a handful of aromatic spices, pantry staples like garlic and onions, and a trusty can of coconut milk come together to deliver maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a crowd, the recipe scales effortlessly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or lazy weekend gatherings. With just 10 minutes of prep, 30 minutes of cooking time, and a brief 5 minutes to rest, you’ll plate up a comforting, 450-calorie meal that feels both indulgent and balanced. It’s like a culinary hug in a bowl—a warm, flavorful reminder that sometimes the simplest combinations yield the greatest delights.

A few summers ago, while visiting a dear friend on the coast of Bahia, I was invited to dinner and had my first taste of this creamy coconut chicken masterpiece. The flavors were so vivid—spicy notes from cayenne pepper, sweet undertones from coconut milk, and a bright squeeze of lime—that I knew I had to bring this recipe home to recreate for family and friends. Over time, I’ve adapted it to fit my own style, swapping in more fresh cilantro or tinkering with the heat level to match my mood. It’s a simple, forgiving dish that welcomes experimentation, yet always delivers that signature, tropical punch.

Since then, this has become my go-to dinner idea for busy weeknights and casual gatherings alike. With minimal prep and fuss, it makes the perfect showcase for pantry staples you likely already have on hand. Serve it hot with a side of steamed rice that soaks up every drop of the sauce, or pair it with crisp, grilled vegetables for a well-rounded plate. Trust me: once you master these basic steps, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe again and again whenever you crave a taste of Brazil’s warm, joyful spirit.

KEY INGREDIENTS IN BRAZILIAN COCONUT CHICKEN

Every delicious recipe starts with quality ingredients that work together in harmony. In this section, we break down the essential components that build the foundation of Brazilian Coconut Chicken. From proteins to aromatics and pantry staples, each ingredient plays a crucial role in layering flavor and texture.

• Chicken breast

Serves as the lean protein base, absorbing spices and coconut milk beautifully while remaining tender and juicy.

• Olive oil

Provides a smooth cooking medium, allowing onions and aromatics to soften without sticking or burning.

• Onion

Adds natural sweetness and depth as it caramelizes, creating a flavorful foundation for the sauce.

• Garlic

Infuses a pungent, savory aroma that complements the sweetness of the coconut and brightness of lime.

• Ground cumin

Brings a warm, earthy note that enhances the overall spice profile without overpowering.

• Paprika

Offers a mild smokiness and vibrant color, tying together the seasoning blend.

• Cayenne pepper (optional)

Delivers a customizable kick of heat for those who love a little extra fire.

• Salt and pepper

Essential seasonings that elevate every other flavor and ensure balance throughout.

• Coconut milk

Creates a rich, creamy sauce that coats the chicken and provides a tropical, velvety texture.

• Diced tomatoes

Introduce a bright, slightly acidic contrast that cuts through the creaminess and keeps the dish lively.

• Lime juice

Adds zesty freshness, brightening the sauce and harmonizing all the flavors.

• Fresh cilantro

Sprinkles in herbal brightness and a pop of green color, finishing the dish with a fragrant flourish.

• Steamed rice

Serves as the perfect neutral canvas to soak up every drop of the luscious coconut-infused sauce.

HOW TO MAKE BRAZILIAN COCONUT CHICKEN

Ready to turn these ingredients into a mouthwatering meal? Follow these steps closely, and you’ll have a rich, flavorful dish that’s as satisfying to cook as it is to eat.

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat, swirling the pan so the oil coats the bottom evenly. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.

2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the onion soft but not browned, creating a sweet base.

3. Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. The spices should bloom in the hot oil, releasing their aromas.

4. Add the cubed chicken into the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until each piece is browned on all sides. Browning seals in juices and adds depth of flavor.

5. Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference and making sure the seasoning is well distributed.

6. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring to combine the creamy liquid with the spices.

7. Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and lime juice, ensuring the tomatoes are evenly dispersed and the acidity is balanced.

8. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened to your liking.

9. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice.

10. Serve hot over steamed rice, garnished with extra cilantro for a fresh finish.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR BRAZILIAN COCONUT CHICKEN

Bringing Brazilian Coconut Chicken to the table is where your culinary creation truly shines. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a gathering of friends, thoughtful serving touches will elevate the experience and highlight the vibrant flavors you’ve crafted. In this section, you’ll find creative ideas to present your dish in style, ensuring every guest feels like they’re part of a tropical celebration.

• Serve over fluffy steamed jasmine or basmati rice, spooning the sauce generously so each grain is coated in creamy coconut goodness.
• Add a sprinkle of toasted shredded coconut on top for an extra layer of texture and visual appeal that echoes the tropical theme.
• Pair with a side of grilled or roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus, to introduce charred sweetness and vibrant colors.
• Present lime wedges alongside the dish so diners can add an extra burst of citrus, brightening the creamy sauce according to taste.

HOW TO STORE BRAZILIAN COCONUT CHICKEN

Proper storage is key to enjoying the leftovers of this comforting dish while maintaining the flavors and textures you worked hard to achieve. Whether you plan to refrigerate for a few days or freeze portions for later, these guidelines will help you preserve the rich coconut sauce and tender chicken without any compromise in quality.

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation.
• For longer storage, transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a small gap at the top to allow for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• When reheating, thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator. Gently rewarm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of coconut milk or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
• If you’re short on time, use the microwave on medium power, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating and prevent the chicken from drying out.

CONCLUSION

We’ve taken you on a flavorful journey through every step of creating Brazilian Coconut Chicken, from gathering vibrant ingredients to savoring each creamy, zesty bite. This article covered all you need—ingredient insights, detailed cooking techniques, serving suggestions, and smart storage tips—so you can confidently bring a taste of Brazil to your dinner table. As a beginner-friendly dinner idea, it balances ease with excitement, offering a warm and satisfying meal in just 10 minutes of prep, 30 minutes of active cooking, and 5 minutes of rest time, all while keeping each serving around 450 calories.

Feel free to print this article and save it for later reference, then come back whenever you need a tropical escape in your kitchen. You’ll also find a FAQ section below to answer any common questions that pop up as you cook. I’d love to hear how your Brazilian Coconut Chicken turns out—drop a comment if you try the recipe, share your tweaks, or ask any questions you might have. Your feedback helps me make recipes even better and creates a friendly space where we can all learn and enjoy delicious meals together. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to read about your kitchen adventures!

Print Recipe

Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Author: Daniel Carter Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 30 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 45 mins

Calories: 450

Description

Experience a symphony of flavors with tender chicken cooked in rich coconut milk, zesty lime, and fresh cilantro. This dish is a tropical delight that will transport your taste buds to Brazil!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1.5 lbs (680 g) chicken breast, cut into cubes

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 14-ounce (400 ml) can coconut milk

• 1 14-ounce (400 g) can diced tomatoes, drained

• 1 tablespoon lime juice

• ¹⁄₄ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

• Steamed rice, for serving

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the chicken cubes into the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides.
5. Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and lime juice.
8. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
9. Stir in the chopped cilantro and adjust seasoning if necessary.
10. Serve hot over steamed rice, garnished with extra cilantro.

Note

• For a spicy kick, feel free to increase the cayenne pepper or add fresh chopped chili.
• This dish pairs well with a side of roasted or grilled vegetables.
• For additional flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lime juice and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.
• This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.

Keywords: Brazilian, coconut chicken, easy recipe, dinner idea, flavorful, chicken dish