Description
Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a vibrant dish that delights the senses with its succulent chicken simmered in a rich, creamy coconut milk sauce. Infused with zesty lime and aromatic spices, this recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and festive gatherings. Serve it over fluffy rice or alongside fresh vegetables to complete your tropical feast. Prepare to be transported straight to the beaches of Brazil with every flavorful bite!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Gather ingredients; mince garlic and grate ginger.
- In a bowl, mix cayenne pepper, paprika, salt, and pepper; rub over chicken.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat; sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add seasoned chicken breasts; sear for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Pour in coconut milk and lime juice; stir gently and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for an additional 10 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
- Serve hot, drizzled with sauce and garnished with fresh cilantro or lime wedges.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (approximately 6 oz)
- Calories: 338
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 89mg
Keywords: - For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken in coconut milk and spices for at least an hour before cooking. - Substitute chicken thighs for breasts for a juicier option. - Add colorful vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas during cooking for extra nutrition.