Spicy coconut chicken

 

For the Chicken Marinade:
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne  pepper (adjust to taste for spice)
Salt and  black pepper to taste

For the Coconut Sauce:
2 tablespoons  vegetable oil
1 onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground coriander
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 can (14 ounces) of diced tomatoes
1 can (14 ounces) of coconut milk
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with minced garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet or pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, add chopped onion and diced red bell pepper. Sauté until they become soft and fragrant.

Spice It Up: Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, and smoked paprika. Cook for a minute or two to release their flavors.

Add Tomatoes and Coconut Milk: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and coconut milk. Stir to combine everything.

Simmer with Chicken: Return the seared chicken to the pan. Add chicken broth and bay leaf. Mix well.

Simmer and Cook: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the mixture simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

Season and Garnish: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf from the sauce.

Serve: Serve the Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken over cooked rice.

Garnish: Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of color and added flavor.

Enjoy this Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken with its rich and creamy coconut sauce that’s beautifully spiced. It’s a dish that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Brazil. Serve it over rice for a complete and satisfying meal. Bom apetite! (Enjoy your meal in Portuguese)