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Easy Coconut Chicken: Healthy Weeknight Dinner Recipe

Brazilian Coconut Chicken

A rich, creamy, and fragrant Brazilian-style coconut chicken simmered with tomatoes, lime, garlic, and warm spices. Perfect served over steamed rice for a comforting, vibrant meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Dish
Cuisine: Brazilian, South American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 can (14 oz / 400 ml) coconut milk
  • 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • steamed rice, for serving

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
  3. Stir in garlic, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the cubed chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
  7. Add the drained diced tomatoes and lime juice. Stir to combine.
  8. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens.
  9. Stir in chopped cilantro and adjust seasoning as needed.
  10. Serve hot over steamed rice, garnishing with extra cilantro.

Notes

For extra richness, add a splash of chicken broth or an additional tablespoon of lime juice for brightness. Can also be made with chicken thighs.