If you are looking for a dish that is both comforting and exotic, the Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. This vibrant and creamy chicken dish combines the richness of coconut milk with the zing of fresh ginger and lime, creating a delightful symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is incredibly simple yet so rewarding, capturing the essence of Brazilian cuisine in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe, you only need a handful of fresh, simple ingredients that come together to create a beautiful balance of warmth, creaminess, and zest. Each component plays a crucial role in building the dish’s bold flavor and irresistible texture.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, they absorb the coconut milk beautifully while staying moist during cooking.
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk: Adds rich creaminess and a slightly sweet tropical flavor that defines the dish.
- 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated: Gives a warm, spicy kick that brightens the creamy sauce.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with deep, savory aroma enhancing the overall taste.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the sauce light yet flavorful and helps create a luscious texture.
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice: Adds a refreshing citrus tang that perfectly balances the richness.
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish: Brings a pop of color and fresh herbal notes just before serving.
How to Make Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by patting the boneless, skinless chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely without steaming. Season each piece generously with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning is essential, allowing the chicken’s natural flavor to shine and complement the creamy sauce.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until fragrant for about one minute. This step builds the aromatic base of the sauce, releasing the bold spices that will infuse the chicken.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the skillet and brown each side for about five minutes. This not only locks in the juices but creates a beautiful, flavorful crust that intensifies the dish’s depth.
Step 4: Simmer in Coconut Milk and Broth
Pour in the full-fat coconut milk and low-sodium chicken broth, stirring gently to combine. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through while soaking up the creamy, spiced sauce. This simmering stage is where the magic happens as all the flavors meld together.
Step 5: Add Lime Juice and Finish Cooking
Just before serving, stir in the fresh lime juice and simmer for an additional two minutes. The lime juice brightens the entire dish with its citrus zing, cutting through the richness and adding that final burst of flavor.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Serve the chicken thighs smothered in the silky coconut sauce and sprinkled generously with fresh chopped cilantro. This beautiful garnish not only adds a touch of color but also elevates the taste with its vibrant herbal notes.
How to Serve Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
For a perfect presentation, a handful of freshly chopped cilantro is a must. It adds a refreshing, bright contrast to the creamy coconut sauce. You can also sprinkle some finely sliced green onions or a few thin red chili slices if you like a subtle spicy kick.
Side Dishes
This Brazilian Coconut Chicken pairs wonderfully with fluffy white rice, which absorbs every drop of the luscious sauce. For a healthier option, try it with quinoa or cauliflower rice. A side of steamed green beans or sautéed spinach brightens up the plate with color and fresh flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the chicken in individual bowls garnished with cilantro and lime wedges on the side. You can also place the chicken atop a bed of yellow rice or coconut-infused jasmine rice for an elegant dinner party presentation. Adding toasted coconut flakes on top adds a crunchy texture that’s simply delightful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish will keep well for up to three days, and the flavors actually deepen, making for even tastier bites when reheated.
Freezing
This coconut chicken freezes beautifully. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to two months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Adding a splash of broth or water can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Microwaving works too but be careful to avoid drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but keep in mind that breasts are leaner and may dry out faster. Cook carefully and consider reducing the simmering time slightly to keep them tender and juicy.
Is this dish spicy?
By itself, the Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe is not spicy. It’s creamy with bright, fresh flavors. However, you can add chili flakes or fresh chili slices if you want to turn up the heat.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! The recipe is naturally dairy-free since it uses coconut milk instead of cream. Just ensure any broth or seasoning you use is also free from dairy additives.
What can I use instead of fresh ginger?
If you don’t have fresh ginger, ground ginger can work in a pinch. Use about ½ teaspoon and add it with the garlic to infuse the flavor, though fresh ginger will give a brighter, more aromatic taste.
How long does the recipe take from start to finish?
This recipe is wonderfully quick, taking about 35 minutes in total—15 minutes prep and 20 minutes cooking. It’s perfect for times when you want something flavorful without a long wait.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe that makes it feel like a warm hug after a long day. It’s simple, flavorful, and carries a touch of tropical flair that transforms everyday chicken into something extraordinary. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as I do—it’s a recipe that invites smiles and happy plates all around.
Print
Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Brazilian
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Brazilian Coconut Chicken recipe features tender chicken thighs simmered in a fragrant coconut milk sauce infused with fresh ginger, garlic, and lime juice. Garnished with fresh cilantro, this dish offers rich, tropical flavors perfect for a comforting yet vibrant meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce and Garnish
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat dry the chicken thighs with paper towels and season them generously with salt and pepper on all sides to enhance the flavor.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn.
- Brown the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet. Brown each side for about 5 minutes, developing a golden crust that adds depth to the dish.
- Simmer in Sauce: Pour in the full can of coconut milk and 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth. Stir well to combine, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Let the chicken cook in the sauce for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through.
- Add Lime Juice: Just before serving, add 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice to the skillet. Stir gently and simmer for another 2 minutes to brighten the sauce with fresh acidity.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the chicken thighs, spoon the creamy coconut sauce over them, and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
Notes
- For best results, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for tenderness and flavor absorption.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper to taste after simmering.
- Serve with rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- To make this dish gluten-free, ensure chicken broth is gluten-free certified.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
