Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Chicken Marinade
01 -
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
02 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
03 -
1 teaspoon paprika
04 -
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or less if you prefer milder heat)
05 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
→ Coconut Sauce
06 -
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
07 -
1 medium onion, finely chopped
08 -
1 red bell pepper, diced
09 -
2 teaspoons ground cumin
10 -
2 teaspoons ground coriander
11 -
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
12 -
1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
13 -
1 can (14 ounces) coconut milk
14 -
1/2 cup chicken broth
15 -
1 bay leaf
16 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
17 -
Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
→ For Serving
18 -
Cooked rice (white or brown)
# Instructions:
01 -
Mix your chicken chunks with the garlic, paprika, cayenne, salt and pepper in a bowl. Let those flavors mingle for at least 15 minutes while you get everything else ready.
02 -
Heat up your oil in a big pan and toss in the chicken. Cook until it's nicely browned on all sides - about 5-6 minutes. Take it out and set it aside for now.
03 -
Throw the onions and bell peppers into the same pan. Cook them until they're soft and your kitchen starts smelling amazing - about 3-4 minutes.
04 -
Add the cumin, coriander, and that smoky paprika to the veggies. Stir them around for a minute or two until they become super fragrant.
05 -
Pour in your canned tomatoes and the coconut milk. Stir everything together until it's well combined into a rich sauce.
06 -
Add the chicken back to the pan along with the chicken broth and bay leaf. Give everything a good stir to make sure the chicken is nestled into the sauce.
07 -
Turn the heat down low, cover the pan, and let everything bubble gently for about 20-25 minutes. The sauce will thicken up and the chicken will become super tender.
08 -
Fish out that bay leaf, taste your creation, and add more salt or pepper if needed. The sauce should be rich and flavorful with just the right kick of spice.
09 -
Scoop some fluffy rice onto plates and spoon this gorgeous chicken and sauce over the top.
10 -
Sprinkle fresh cilantro over everything for a pop of color and fresh flavor before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
This Brazilian-inspired coconut chicken dish brings together the perfect balance of spicy and creamy flavors.
02 -
For an authentic touch, serve with Brazilian style rice and a simple side salad with lime dressing.
03 -
Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.