Brazilian Coconut Chicken : A Flavor-Packed Comfort Dish You’ll Love

If you’re looking for a meal that’s creamy, fragrant, and deeply satisfying, look no further than Brazilian Coconut Chicken. This beloved dish, sometimes referred to as Brazilian curry, combines tender chicken with rich coconut milk, tomatoes, garlic, and aromatic spices. It’s the perfect example of how Brazilian main dishes deliver bold flavor while still being accessible to the everyday cook.

Whether you’re exploring Brazilian recipes easy for weeknight dinners, searching for South America recipes to diversify your table, or simply craving a wholesome and warming dish, this recipe will hit the spot. It’s also gluten-free friendly, making it an excellent option if you’re looking for lighter alternatives to recipes like Gluten Free Chicken Francaise.

Let’s dive in and see how you can recreate this comforting Brazilian food right in your kitchen.

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What Is Brazilian Coconut Chicken?

Brazilian Coconut Chicken, also known as frango com leite de coco, is a staple of Brazil recipes authentic to the country’s coastal regions. The recipe features marinated chicken pieces simmered in coconut milk with tomatoes, onion, and garlic. The result is a creamy stew-like dish that balances savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors.

Unlike heavy curries, this dish is lighter, fresher, and often served with rice, making it one of the easiest and most comforting Brazilian food recipes easy to love.

If you enjoy trying international comfort food, you might also like hearty classics such as this creamy mushroom soup or cozy pumpkin chicken chili.

Why This Brazilian Curry Is Perfect for Any Home Cook

This recipe is a winner for home cooks because it’s:

• Simple: Most ingredients are pantry staples.
• Versatile: Can be made into a Brazilian casserole or served over rice.
• Wholesome: Coconut milk adds richness without dairy.
• Authentic: Brings the flavors of South America recipes to your table.
• Family-friendly: Mild enough for kids, but you can add chili for spice.

For another family-friendly dish, check out this loaded breakfast hash that also works beautifully for meal prep.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Authentic Flavor

Here’s what you’ll need for this classic dish:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ground turmeric (or curry powder as substitute)
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 1 handful fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Tip: For a cozy side pairing, consider serving this chicken with scalloped potatoes or a fresh cucumber dill salad.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Citrus juicer (for lime)
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Toss chicken strips in lime juice, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for 15 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Spices
Stir in turmeric, coriander, paprika, and cayenne until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Add marinated chicken and cook until browned.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Coconut Milk
Stir in diced tomatoes and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.

Step 6: Simmer and Finish
Cook gently for 20 minutes until chicken is tender and sauce is creamy. Top with cilantro.

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Tips for Perfectly Creamy Brazilian Coconut Sauce

• Use full-fat coconut milk for the richest sauce.
• Simmer gently to avoid curdling.
• Add a spoon of coconut cream for extra thickness.
• Taste and adjust lime or seasoning before serving.

For another creamy dish with global inspiration, try creamy mushroom pasta, which also has a rich, comforting sauce.

Brazilian Recipes Easy: Swaps and Simplifications

• Use rotisserie chicken instead of raw.
• Replace coriander with cumin.
• Skip cayenne for kids.
• Swap chicken for chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

These quick adaptations make it one of the most flexible Brazilian recipes easy to adapt.

Brazilian Casserole Variation: Bake It for Family Meals

To turn this dish into a hearty Brazilian casserole:

• Transfer chicken and sauce into a baking dish.
• Add cooked rice, sprinkle with cheese, and bake 15 minutes at 350°F.

Looking for more casserole-style dinners? Try this vegetarian baked ziti for another cozy family option.

Brazilian Main Dishes: What to Serve with Coconut Chicken

Perfect sides include:

• Steamed rice or quinoa
• Garlic parmesan chicken skewers as a starter
• Plantains or roasted veggies
• Fresh green salad

For holiday meals, it even pairs beautifully with grandma’s macaroni salad.

Brazil Recipes Authentic: Staying True to Tradition

Authenticity tips:

• Always marinate chicken in lime.
• Use high-quality coconut milk.
• Add dendê oil (red palm oil) if available.

Healthy Twist: Is This Brazilian Coconut Chicken Gluten-Free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free. If you’re interested in other gluten-free ideas, try these crispy cottage cheese chips as a snack or compare it with Gluten Free Chicken Francaise for inspiration.

Brazilian Food Recipes Easy: Quick Meal Prep Tips

• Marinate chicken ahead of time.
• Make sauce a day in advance.
• Store leftovers up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Freeze up to a month.

For more make-ahead ideas, see freezer breakfast sandwiches that save time in the morning.

South America Recipes: Coconut Chicken in the Bigger Picture

Coconut-based dishes are loved across South America, from Colombian stews to Venezuelan curries. Brazil’s version is distinct for its lime and spice balance.

Want to expand your South America recipes collection? Try sweet potato and chickpea curry for another plant-based comfort food.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking chicken
• Using low-fat coconut milk
• Forgetting fresh lime juice
• Skipping fresh herbs

Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Garnish with cilantro and lime wedges
• Serve in rustic bowls with rice
• For dessert, serve alongside apple crisp with oatmeal or pumpkin cheesecake cookies for balance.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake instead of simmer?
Yes, transfer to oven after adding sauce.

Can I use thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, thighs stay juicier.

Can I make it spicy?
Add chili peppers or hot sauce.

Is this freezer-friendly?
Yes, best frozen before adding fresh herbs.

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love Brazilian Coconut Chicken

This dish is the perfect blend of Brazilian main dishes: authentic, flavorful, and comforting. Whether simmered on the stovetop or baked as a Brazilian casserole, it’s bound to become a weeknight favorite.

Pair it with sides like garlic parmesan focaccia bread or cool drinks like lavender lemonade for a complete meal experience.

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