Brazilian Chicken in Coconut Milk – A Tropical Delight
Starving for a hearty meal that’s also oozing with tropical flavours? Look no further as I bring you my scrumptious recipe for Brazilian Chicken with Coconut Milk Sauce. This dish is the perfect introduction to the exotic cuisine of South America, combining the bold and spicy taste of Brazilian spices with the creaminess of coconut milk!
I developed this recipe to cater to those who are new to Brazilian cuisine and want to explore more. The bright combination of chicken and coconut milk floods your plate with enticing aromas and visually captivating colors. The recipe calls for a mixture of ground turmeric, coriander, cumin, and cayenne pepper – each spice working together in harmony to create an explosion of flavor in your mouth.
With its creamy texture and complex flavor palette, this Brazilian chicken will quickly become a staple dish at your dinner table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking to cook something special for yourself or your loved ones, this dish delivers rich flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
So without further ado, get ready to experience the vibrant world of Brazilian cuisine in the comfort of your own home by following this simple yet mouth-watering recipe for Brazilian Chicken with Coconut Milk Sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you looking for a flavorsome and exotic recipe to fill your kitchen with enticing aromas of South American cooking? Look no further than this Brazilian Chicken with Coconut Milk Sauce recipe.
With simple ingredients such as boneless skinless chicken breast halves, garlic cloves, onion, and light coconut milk, this recipe is easy to make and will leave your family and guests wanting more. The addition of spices such as ground cumin, ground turmeric, and ground coriander give the chicken a spicy Brazilian flare that will have everyone saying “wow”.
Not only is this recipe simple to prepare, but it is also healthy. By using light coconut milk instead of cream or butter, you can indulge in the creamy coconut flavor without the added calories. This dish pairs perfectly with cauliflower rice or grilled vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
This recipe is versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your personal tastes. Want it spicier? Add some jalapeno peppers or increase the ground cayenne pepper measurement. Prefer vegetables? Add in some fresh tomatoes for a burst of flavor. With endless variations, you’ll always find a new way to enjoy this classic Brazilian chicken with coconut sauce recipe.
This recipe is perfect for any occasion- whether it’s a family dinner or entertaining guests at a dinner party. With its vibrant coconut milk sauce and tantalizing flavors, it’s sure to become one of your new favorite dishes. Get ready to transport your taste buds to Brazil with this simple yet vibrant coconut chicken recipe.
Ingredient List
Here’s what you’ll need to create this spicy Brazilian chicken with coconut milk sauce recipe:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breast halves
- 1 tablespoon of ground coriander
- 1 tablespoon of ground turmeric
- 1 tablespoon of ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon of ground cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced (optional)
- 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cans light coconut milk
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Don’t let the length of the list fool you – this recipe is actually relatively simple to prepare!
The Recipe How-To
To make this Brazilian Chicken with Coconut Milk Sauce recipe, you will need 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves. Begin by seasoning both sides of the chicken with 1 tsp of ground coriander, 1 tsp of ground cumin, 1 tsp of ground turmeric, and 1 tsp of ground cayenne pepper.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tbsp of olive oil. Once heated, add the chicken to the skillet, and cook for about 5 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
Making the Coconut Milk Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, in a separate saucepan over medium heat, add 1 tbsp of butter and sauté 1 finely chopped onion for about 3 minutes or until it’s slightly caramelized. Then add in 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp of grated fresh ginger; continue to sauté for another minute.
Next up are the tomatoes: Add in 2 diced tomatoes and two jalapeño peppers seeded and diced. Continue to sauté for about a minute. Now it’s time to pour in the can of light coconut milk (14oz) into the pan along with 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley leaves. Let it cook for about five minutes, remember to stir it every few minutes so it won’t stick.
Combining the Chicken & Coconut Milk Sauce
After five minutes have passed you can now add your chicken breasts into the pan with coconut sauce mixture. Remember to spoon some sauce onto each breast so that the chicken will be well coated in sauce while cooking and absorbing flavors.
Reduce heat to low-medium and let the dish simmer for around seven minutes or until you’re satisfied that everything is cooked thoroughly. Be sure to stir occasionally as you allow it to simmer.
At this point check for spices and seasonings- add some salt and pepper if needed. Once everything is cooked through you can take it off the heat and serve it hot.
Serving
This Brazilian Chicken with Coconut Milk Sauce recipe can be enjoyed in a variety of ways including simply over rice, cauliflower rice, or with grilled vegetables. The leftover sauce can be used for other dishes such as a chicken stroganoff recipe, slow cooker Brazilian chicken curry, chicken stew or even lime chicken.
Enjoy this healthy yet mouthwatering dish combining the enticing aromas of South American cooking with creamy coconut milk.
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re a fan of Brazilian food, you’ll want to try this recipe for Brazilian Chicken with Coconut Milk Sauce. But let’s say you don’t have all the ingredients on hand, or maybe you have some dietary restrictions to consider. Fear not! There are plenty of substitutions and variations you can make to accommodate your needs and preferences.
Firstly, the recipe calls for boneless skinless chicken breast halves, but if you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can be used as well. Additionally, if you’re considering a vegetarian option, try substituting the chicken with cauliflower florets or chickpeas.
Ground coriander, turmeric, cumin and cayenne pepper are important spices in this recipe that lend it that authentic Brazilian taste. However, if you don’t have one or more of these spices on hand, there are several substitutes that can work just as well. For coriander, cardamom makes a great replacement. Use paprika instead of cayenne pepper for a milder spice level. And for cumin and turmeric, try using their common substitute – curry powder.
The recipe also calls for light coconut milk but regular canned coconut milk can be used instead. Alternatively, dairy-free options such as almond milk or rice milk can be substituted.
Lastly, consider adding some extra ingredients to really make this dish your own. Some sliced jalapeno peppers or chili flakes will add some heat and spice to the sauce. You could also add some additional veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to boost the nutritional value of the meal.
With these easy substitutions and variations in mind, feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own!
Serving and Pairing
This Brazilian chicken with coconut milk sauce dish will fill your kitchen with enticing aromas of South American cooking. Once you serve it, it will fill your body with satisfying flavors and textures. This simple chicken recipe is vibrant and creamy, making it an excellent companion for many dishes.
One pairing suggestion is to serve this spicy Brazilian coconut chicken with rice. You can try white rice or cauliflower rice, which is a healthier option. Another choice would be grilled vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, or portobello mushrooms.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try making a Brazilian tomato and coconut salad as a starter to complement the entrée. The combination of fresh tomatoes and creamy coconut milk complements the flavors of the chicken perfectly.
To add some zing to your meal, you can also incorporate lime juice or zest into any element of the dish. Lime infusion is common in Brazilian cuisine and adds acidity to balance out the richness of the sauce.
Overall, this dish pairs well with light and refreshing sides that won’t overpower its flavors. Keep in mind that when it comes to serving this dish, simplicity is key; let the star of the show take center stage. With all these pairing options on hand, you’ll surely have an excellent dining experience with your spicy Brazilian coconut chicken paired with light and zesty accompaniments.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
This Brazilian Chicken with Coconut Milk Sauce recipe is a perfect choice for meal prepping, as it can easily be made ahead of time and reheated for later use. To make ahead, simply follow the recipe instructions up to the point of adding the coconut milk sauce. Once the sauce is prepared, allow it to cool completely before pouring it over the chicken. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
When ready to serve, reheat the chicken in a preheated oven set to 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a microwave-safe dish by microwaving on high for 1-2 minutes (depending on your microwave’s wattage) until heated through.
Leftovers can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat individual portions or leftovers, use a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through.
For best results when reheating, add a little extra coconut milk or chicken broth to keep the chicken moist and prevent it from drying out. You may also want to sprinkle some fresh parsley over the top just before serving to enhance its vibrant colors and enticing aromas.
Tips for Perfect Results
When making Brazilian Chicken with Coconut Milk Sauce, following the recipe directions is essential. But, sometimes just a few tips can take your dish to the next level. Here are some tips for perfect results:
1) Use boneless skinless chicken breasts for quick and easy cooking. If you prefer darker meat, you can use chicken thighs instead.
2) Marinating the chicken in garlic, ginger, and lime juice beforehand will add more depth of flavor to the dish. It also helps to tenderize the chicken.
3) Don’t overcook the chicken. Overcooked chicken breasts turn rubbery and dry. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4) If you want a spicier flavor, add extra cayenne pepper or jalapeno peppers – this will also give it a savory taste.
5) Use light coconut milk instead of regular coconut milk for a healthier alternative that still delivers great taste.
6) Serve over cauliflower rice if you’re looking for a low-carb option or brown rice if you want something heartier to help soak up that delicious sauce.
7) Add fresh parsley on top for garnish; it adds color and freshness to the dish.
By incorporating these tips into your cooking regimen, you’ll unleash enticing aromas that mimic those found in South American cuisine. The end result will be a creamy coconut milk recipe that’s sure to fill your kitchen with enticing flavors and tempt all taste buds, regardless of their preference for American cooking or Brazilian cuisine.
FAQ
As a chef, I have received many questions about Brazilian Chicken with Coconut Milk Sauce recipe. In this section, I’ll address some of the frequently asked questions to help you perfect your dish and enjoy it to the fullest. Let’s get started!
What spices go with coconut milk?
This recipe calls for a blend of flavorful spices, including allspice, black pepper, cardamom, chili powder, cinnamon, cloves, coriander, cumin, nutmeg, and kosher salt.
Can you put coconut cream in chicken?
Indulge in the flavor-packed creamy coconut chicken dish that will have your taste buds dancing with every bite! This recipe is perfect for those who are looking for an effortless yet delicious meal as it takes only 30 minutes from start to finish. Succulent chicken breasts are cooked with a delectable garlic lime sauce in a skillet on the stove top, resulting in a dish that is tender and juicy.
Does butter chicken contain coconut milk?
This recipe features a slight twist on traditional Indian butter chicken – incorporating plenty of spice and creamy coconut milk. The dish showcases warming Indian flavors and has a cozy and creamy texture with a little bit of kick. The dish is best served with steamed rice and fresh naan on the side.
What is coconut chicken made of?
Imagine tender chicken breasts, delicately coated in a blend of flavorful seasoned flour, and seared to perfection until crispy and golden brown. This succulent chicken is then bathed in a luxuriously creamy, aromatic, and tropical coconut sauce, enriched with notes of sweet honey, a tangy squeeze of fresh lime, and a tantalizing kick of spicy yet sweet Asian chili sauce, all united by the subtle heat of minced garlic and the warm, earthy notes of grated ginger.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Brazilian chicken with coconut milk sauce recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to add some enticing aromas of South American cooking to their kitchen. With its combination of spicy Brazilian flavors and creamy coconut milk, this simple yet vibrant chicken dish will fill your taste buds with delight.
What makes this recipe even more appealing is the ease of its preparation using common ingredients such as boneless chicken breasts, garlic, ginger, onions, and spices like ground coriander, cumin, cayenne pepper, and turmeric. Additionally, if you’re looking for healthy recipes, this dish is perfect as it uses light coconut milk rather than heavy cream.
Whether you’re a fan of grilled chicken or love a good chicken curry or stew – this recipe offers endless variations for you to explore. And with tips for substitutions and variations provided in the article, you can adjust the recipe to suit your taste buds.
So go ahead and get this recipe now -you won’t regret it! Prepare it for your friends and family on special occasions or anytime you want something fulfilling yet simple that reminds you of Brazil’s unique cuisine. Trust me; the enticing flavor and aroma will leave everyone wanting more!
Brazilian Chicken With Coconut Milk Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tomatoes, seeded and chopped
- 1 (14 ounce) can light coconut milk
- 1 bunch chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix the cumin, cayenne pepper, turmeric, and coriander.
- Place the chicken in the bowl, season with salt and pepper, and rub on all sides with the spice mixture.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Place the chicken in the skillet.
- Cook 10 to 15 minutes on each side, until no longer pink and juices run clear.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
- Heat the remaining olive oil in the skillet.
- Cook and stir the onion, ginger, jalapeno peppers, and garlic 5 minutes, or until tender.
- Mix in the tomatoes and continue cooking 5 to 8 minutes.
- Stir in the coconut milk.
- You may add additional salt and/or pepper to the sauce, if desired.
- Serve over the chicken.
- Garnish with the parsley.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Dora
Dora is a chef well-versed in Brazilian and American cuisine. After a hard day's work in the kitchen of her restaurant, she finds the time to jot down recipes for her food blog. Her recipes are sure to delight foodies everywhere, as she strives to make each one unique and enjoyable to read.