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Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken: A Warm Flavor Explosion

Enjoy a quick and flavorful Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken that's perfect for dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Brazilian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Spice Mix
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Substitution: Ground coriander can be used for a similar taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Adjust amount based on personal spice preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric No direct substitute, but can omit if unavailable.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander Substitution: Extra cumin can be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can replace it; use 3 cloves instead.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper Black or white pepper works; adjust to taste.
For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Substitution: Firm tofu or shrimp can be used for alternative proteins.
For Cooking
  • 2 tablespoons Olive or Coconut Oil Absorbs flavors from the spices and chicken.
  • 1 medium Onion Shallots can be used if preferred.
  • 1 piece Jalapeño Pepper Mild poblano can be a substitute for less spice.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger Ground ginger can substitute, though flavor will differ somewhat.
For the Sauce
  • 3 cloves Garlic (Minced) Use more or less according to taste.
  • 1 cup Tomatoes (Finely Chopped) Canned tomatoes can work in a pinch.
  • 2 tablespoons Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice Lime juice can be substituted for a different citrus note.
  • 1 cup Unsweetened Coconut Milk Almond or cashew milk works but alters flavor and consistency.
For Garnishing
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley or Cilantro Basil or mint can replace cilantro if disliked.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground cumin, cayenne pepper, turmeric, ground coriander, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk to blend the spices evenly until they're well combined.
  2. Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and add them to the spice mixture. Gently toss the chicken until it's fully coated in the vibrant spices.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive or coconut oil. Once hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear for 6-8 minutes on each side until they're golden brown and cooked through.
  4. In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, then toss in the chopped onion and diced jalapeño pepper. Sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent.
  5. Stir in the grated fresh ginger and minced garlic, allowing them to cook for about 1 minute until they're fragrant. Keep stirring to prevent burning.
  6. Add the finely chopped tomatoes and freshly squeezed lemon juice to the skillet. Stir well, cooking for 5 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
  7. Pour in the unsweetened coconut milk and stir to combine thoroughly. Bring to a gentle simmer over low heat for about 5 minutes.
  8. Carefully place the seared chicken back into the skillet, cover with a lid, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  9. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro over the top of your dish before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 30gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Marinate the chicken in the spice mix for a few hours for enhanced flavor. Serve with rice or salad for a complete meal.

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