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Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken: Creamy Bliss in Every Bite

This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a vibrant, one-pan meal bursting with tropical flavors, perfect for any dinner occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Brazilian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces chicken breasts use thighs for more flavor
For the Sauce
  • 1 can coconut milk lite coconut milk can reduce calories
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika substitute with regular paprika if unavailable
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes adjust quantity based on desired spice level
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice fresh lime is best
  • 1 medium onion fresh onions yield the best taste
  • 2 cloves garlic fresh is preferred over powdered versions
For Added Umami
  • 1 cup chicken broth check for gluten if needed
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste can be replaced with fresh tomatoes
To Season
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust according to dietary preferences
  • 1 teaspoon sugar reduce for sweetness preference or skip for stricter diets
Finishing Touches
  • 1/4 cup cilantro omit if you're allergic

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Heat a drizzle of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Pour in coconut milk, tomato paste, smoked paprika, chili flakes, and lime juice. Stir to combine.
  3. Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it in the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.
  4. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed with salt, more lime juice, or sugar. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and garnish with cilantro. Serve hot over rice or quinoa.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Shake the coconut milk can thoroughly before opening. If the sauce is too thick, add chicken broth; if too thin, simmer uncovered. Always taste as you go to maintain balance.

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