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Brazilian cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, influenced by its diverse cultures and rich history. From the lush Amazon rainforest to the bustling streets of Rio de Janeiro, the country's culinary landscape is a celebration of fresh ingredients, bold spices, and unique cooking techniques. Among the many delicious dishes that represent this dynamic cuisine, one stands out for its delightful fusion of heat and creaminess: Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken.

Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Get ready to spice up your dinner with this delicious Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken! This vibrant dish features tender chicken thighs marinated in creamy coconut milk, fresh lime juice, and a kick of Brazilian red pepper flakes. Cooked with sautéed onions and bell peppers, it’s bursting with flavor. Serve it over fluffy rice and garnish with fresh cilantro for a meal that’s both satisfying and exotic. Perfect for a cozy dinner night!
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Ingredients
  

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 can (14 oz) coconut milk

1 medium onion, finely chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, chopped

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

1 tablespoon Brazilian red pepper flakes (or substitute with cayenne pepper)

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken thighs, coconut milk, lime juice, red pepper flakes, ginger, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for better flavor).

    Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the pepper is tender.

      Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and add it to the skillet. Sear on each side for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown.

        Simmer in Coconut Sauce: Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet with the chicken. Bring to a gentle simmer and cover. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender, stirring occasionally.

          Serve: Once cooked, remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve the spicy Brazilian coconut chicken over a bed of rice, drizzling some of the sauce over the top.

            Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4