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Brazilian Coconut Chicken
Dominique

Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a creamy, dairy-free stew bursting with tropical flavor. Inspired by Brazilian Moqueca, it blends coconut milk, turmeric, ginger, and citrus into a vibrant, comforting dinner ready in just 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Brazilian
Calories: 622
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Spice Blend
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
For the Chicken and Aromatics
  • 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 3 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil coconut oil adds depth
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce and Garnish
  • 3 medium tomatoes, chopped small
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 14 oz unsweetened coconut milk
  • 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley or cilantro

Method
 

  1. Combine cumin, cayenne, turmeric, coriander, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl to create the spice blend.
  2. Coat the chicken breasts in the spice blend. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a skillet and sear chicken for 6–8 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove and tent with foil.
  3. Add remaining oil to the skillet. Sauté onion, jalapeño, ginger, and garlic for 5 minutes until soft and fragrant.
  4. Add tomatoes and lemon juice. Season lightly and cook 5 minutes until tomatoes soften.
  5. Pour in coconut milk and simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Return chicken and juices to the skillet. Simmer 5 minutes, then garnish with parsley or cilantro and serve warm.

Notes

Adjust spice levels to your preference by reducing or increasing the cayenne and jalapeño. This dish stores well for 3–5 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. For extra thickness, stir in a cornstarch slurry during the final minutes of cooking.