If you’ve been searching for a dish that brings bold, comforting flavors to your dinner table, look no further than this Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken for a Cozy Family Dinner Recipe. Rich, creamy, and bursting with authentic spices like cumin, turmeric, and cayenne, it perfectly captures the vibrant spirit of Brazilian cooking while keeping things simple enough for any home cook. The luscious coconut milk sauce pairs beautifully with tender chicken breast, creating a meal that feels both indulgent and heartwarming for those special family moments.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, accessible, and each plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and freshness. The spices build a flavorful foundation, while fresh aromatics and coconut milk bring the dish to life with texture and vibrant color.
- 1 tsp Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that forms the backbone of the seasoning blend.
- 1 tsp Cayenne Pepper: Provides the fiery kick; adjust to your heat preference or leave out for a milder meal.
- 1 tsp Turmeric: Brings a gorgeous golden hue that’s as pleasing to the eyes as to the palate.
- 1 tsp Coriander: Offers a citrusy, nutty touch that brightens the spice mix.
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder: Delivers deep savory notes; fresh garlic works wonderfully too.
- 1 tsp Salt: Enhances all the flavors, making everything pop just right.
- 1 tsp Black Pepper: Adds mild heat; white pepper is a subtler alternative.
- 4 pieces Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless for tender, juicy results.
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil or Coconut Oil: Perfect for sautéing; coconut oil echoes the dish’s tropical vibe.
- 1 medium Onion: Contributes natural sweetness and depth; shallots can soften the sharpness.
- 1 medium Jalapeño Pepper: Introduces fresh heat; green bell pepper if you prefer no spice.
- 1 inch Fresh Ginger: Adds warmth and a subtle spice note; ground ginger is an easy swap.
- 3 cloves Garlic Cloves: Brings irresistible umami when freshly minced.
- 2 cups Tomatoes: Offers richness and body; canned diced tomatoes work well too.
- 2 tbsp Lemon Juice: Brightens and balances the creamy sauce; lime juice is equally zesty.
- 1 can Unsweetened Coconut Milk: Creates a luscious and silky sauce base that’s integral to the dish.
- 1/4 cup Parsley or Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish to each bite.
How to Make Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken for a Cozy Family Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mix and Chicken
Start by whisking together cumin, cayenne pepper, turmeric, coriander, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This vibrant spice blend is the heart of your dish, infusing every morsel of chicken with that signature Brazilian flair. Thoroughly coat the chicken breasts in this mixture, ensuring they’re evenly seasoned and ready to soak up all those warm, bold flavors.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat two tablespoons of either olive or coconut oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the spiced chicken breasts on both sides until they develop a beautiful golden crust, locking in juices and flavor. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm while you prepare the sauce base.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics for Depth
In the same skillet, add chopped onions, jalapeño, fresh ginger, and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and everything fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. These ingredients build a complex, cozy foundation for your coconut sauce, teasing your senses and bringing layers of flavor.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Next, stir in the chopped tomatoes and lemon juice, seasoning with an extra pinch of salt and pepper to taste. The tomatoes add a luscious body and acidity that complements the creamy coconut milk perfectly. Pour in the unsweetened coconut milk, stirring well to marry all the flavors into a silky, rich sauce.
Step 5: Simmer Chicken in the Coconut Sauce
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them gently into the sauce. Let everything simmer together over low heat so the chicken cooks through while soaking up the creamy, spicy coconut goodness. This step is where everything harmonizes, creating that comforting feeling of a true family dinner.
Step 6: Add Fresh Herbs and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro over the dish. The fresh herbs brighten the flavors and add a vibrant touch, making your Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken for a Cozy Family Dinner Recipe a feast both for the eyes and the palate.
How to Serve Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken for a Cozy Family Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro right before serving for a pop of color and herbal freshness. A wedge of lemon on the side adds an optional zing that guests can squeeze over their chicken to elevate the brightness and balance the creaminess.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple white rice or fluffy coconut rice to soak up every last bit of the sauce. For added texture, try a fresh green salad with lime vinaigrette or sautéed greens like kale or spinach, which provide a lovely contrast to the richness of the coconut sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken for a Cozy Family Dinner Recipe in a rustic cast-iron skillet straight at the table for a warm, inviting vibe. Alternatively, stack the chicken atop a bed of fragrant rice, drizzle with sauce, and scatter herbs artistically for an elegant touch. Adding roasted plantains on the side can bring a sweet and caramelized note that’s pure magic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken for a Cozy Family Dinner Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the sauce and chicken together helps retain moisture and flavor.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge to maintain the texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. Adding a splash of water or coconut milk can help restore creaminess. Avoid the microwave if possible, as slower reheating preserves the dish’s delicate flavors best.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will bring a richer, juicier flavor and work perfectly with this recipe. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.
Is this dish very spicy?
The heat level depends on how much cayenne and jalapeño you use. You can easily adjust the spice to your liking or omit them altogether for a milder version without sacrificing flavor.
Can I substitute coconut milk with something else?
Coconut milk is key for that creamy tropical flavor, but if needed, full-fat cream or evaporated milk can work as substitutes, though the dish will lose a bit of its authentic Brazillian character.
What if I don’t have fresh ginger?
Ground ginger can be used in place of fresh ginger, but use about half the amount since ground ginger is more concentrated. It will still add a lovely warm note to the dish.
How can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
Swap chicken for firm tofu, tempeh, or hearty vegetables like cauliflower or mushrooms. Follow the same steps to build the sauce and simply reduce cooking time to suit your protein or veggies.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken for a Cozy Family Dinner Recipe is such a joy to make and share. It’s a beautiful combination of bold spices, creamy coconut, and fresh herbs that makes any meal feel like a warm embrace. Give it a try—you’ll find it’s the kind of dish that brings smiles around the table and invites everyone back for seconds.
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Description
Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a vibrant, creamy dish that brings together warm spices, fresh aromatics, and rich coconut milk to create a comforting family dinner. This recipe features boneless chicken breasts simmered in a fragrant sauce infused with cumin, cayenne, turmeric, coriander, garlic, and fresh ingredients like ginger, jalapeño, and tomatoes. The result is a mildly spicy, deeply flavorful meal perfect for sharing and served with a bright herbal garnish of parsley or cilantro.
Ingredients
Spice Mix
- 1 tsp Cumin (Adds a warm, earthy flavor; substitute with ground coriander for a milder taste.)
- 1 tsp Cayenne Pepper (Provides heat; adjust based on spice preference or omit for a milder dish.)
- 1 tsp Turmeric (Contributes a vibrant yellow color; optional if you prefer a different aesthetic.)
- 1 tsp Coriander (Offers a citrusy, nutty flavor; use ground cumin if unavailable.)
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder (Adds depth; fresh garlic can be used instead.)
- 1 tsp Salt (Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste.)
- 1 tsp Black Pepper (Provides mild heat; use white pepper for a subtler flavor.)
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces Chicken Breasts (Boneless and skinless for tenderness.)
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil or Coconut Oil (Used for cooking; coconut oil pairs nicely with the dish’s flavor profile.)
- 1 medium Onion (Offers sweetness; substitute shallots for a milder taste.)
- 1 medium Jalapeño Pepper (Introduces heat; substitute with green bell pepper for a non-spicy option.)
- 1 inch Fresh Ginger (Adds spice and warmth; ground ginger can be used as a substitute.)
- 3 cloves Garlic Cloves (Boosts umami flavor; freshly minced garlic is preferable.)
- 2 cups Tomatoes (Adds richness; canned diced tomatoes are a suitable substitute.)
- 2 tbsp Lemon Juice (Brightens the dish; lime juice works equally well.)
- 1 can Unsweetened Coconut Milk (Creates a creamy base for the sauce.)
- 1/4 cup Parsley or Cilantro (Adds freshness; feel free to use both.)
Instructions
- Prepare the spice mix: In a large bowl, combine cumin, cayenne pepper, turmeric, coriander, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all spices are evenly distributed.
- Coat the chicken: Take the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thoroughly coat them with the prepared spice mixture, ensuring an even layer over each piece for maximum flavor penetration.
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil or coconut oil until hot but not smoking, ready for sautéing and browning the chicken.
- Sear the chicken: Add the spiced chicken breasts to the skillet and cook each side until browned, usually about 3-4 minutes per side, then transfer the chicken to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add chopped onions, diced jalapeño, freshly minced garlic, and grated fresh ginger. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions become translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add tomatoes and lemon juice: Stir in the chopped tomatoes along with the lemon juice, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper, and cook together for another 3 minutes to combine flavors.
- Incorporate coconut milk: Pour the unsweetened coconut milk into the skillet, stirring thoroughly to blend the creamy base with the other ingredients, allowing the sauce to heat through without boiling.
- Simmer chicken in sauce: Return the browned chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Reduce heat to low and let everything simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring the chicken cooks through and absorbs the sauce’s flavors.
- Finish and garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro over the dish to add a burst of freshness. Serve hot, ideally accompanied by rice or crusty bread.
Notes
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to control the spiciness; omit for a milder taste.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat if preferred, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Fresh garlic and ginger enhance flavor more than powder substitutes.
- Serve with steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- For a dairy-free and halal-friendly dish, ensure coconut milk and oils are appropriately sourced.
