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A close-up view of a bowl of creamy Brazilian Coconut Chicken, showing tender pieces of chicken in a rich, orange-hued coconut sauce with bell peppers.

Brazilian Coconut Chicken: A Creamy and Comforting Stew

This Brazilian Coconut Chicken recipe features tender chicken simmered in a rich, creamy coconut milk and tomato sauce. An easy, one-pan meal packed with tropical flavor, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Brazilian
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 2 tbsp olive oil divided
  • 1 large yellow onion chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper chopped
  • 1 yellow bell pepper chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes undrained
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 lime juiced
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet or Dutch Oven
  • 1 Cutting Board
  • 1 Knife

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken pieces dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  2. Add the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil to the skillet. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers and cook for 5-7 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and coconut milk, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a simmer, then return the chicken to the pan. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until chicken is cooked through.
  4. Remove from heat. Stir in the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro. Serve hot, traditionally over rice.

Notes

For the richest flavor, use full-fat canned coconut milk, not the kind from a carton.
Searing the chicken before simmering is a crucial step for developing deep flavor.
Serve immediately with a side of fluffy white rice to soak up the creamy sauce.