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Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

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Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a bold and comforting one-pan dish featuring tender chicken, bell peppers, and a creamy, spiced coconut-lime sauce. Bursting with vibrant flavors and perfect served over rice, it’s a flavorful escape in every bite.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, peeled and grated
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
  2. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add tomato paste, cumin, and chili powder. Stir for 1 minute to toast the spices.
  4. Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth. Stir until smooth and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Add lime juice, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Stir to combine.
  6. Add bell peppers and chicken. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce thickens slightly.
  7. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped cilantro.
  8. Serve hot over cooked rice with plenty of sauce.

Notes

  • Substitute chicken breast for thighs if preferred—just avoid overcooking.
  • Add spinach, snap peas, or zucchini in the last few minutes of cooking for extra veggies.
  • For extra creaminess, stir in coconut cream or a splash of heavy cream at the end.
  • Replace chicken with shrimp (simmer just 5–7 minutes) or tofu for variation.
  • Serve over noodles instead of rice for a fun twist.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/spicy-brazilian-coconut-chicken/