Brazilian cuisine is known for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and exotic spices. And when it comes to chicken, Brazilians know how to elevate this classic protein to new heights. From grilled and stewed dishes to crispy fried bites and creamy sauces, Brazilian chicken recipes are a true reflection of the country’s cultural heritage.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Brazil, exploring 20 mouth-watering chicken recipes that will make your taste buds dance. From traditional favorites like Moqueca de Frango (Brazilian Chicken Stew) and Galinhada (Brazilian Chicken and Rice), to creative twists like Brazilian Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri Sauce and Frango à Parmegiana (Brazilian Chicken Parmesan), we’ll show you how to bring the flavors of Brazil into your own kitchen.
So, let’s get started! Which one of these delicious Brazilian chicken recipes will you try first?
Brazilian Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Brazil with this classic grilled chicken dish smothered in a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a backyard barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped oregano
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, parsley, oregano, garlic, and salt.
3. Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with the chimichurri mixture.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
6. Serve grilled chicken with a drizzle of chimichurri sauce and a sprinkle of the red wine vinegar mixture.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Moqueca de Frango (Brazilian Chicken Stew)
Moqueca de Frango is a popular Brazilian dish that originated from the Afro-Brazilian community. This flavorful stew is made with chicken, coconut milk, and spices, cooked in a clay pot over low heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large clay pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Pour in the coconut milk, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Brazilian Chicken Coxinha (Croquettes)
This classic Brazilian street food recipe transforms shredded chicken into crispy, flavorful croquettes that are sure to delight. With a simple blend of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy these addictive bites in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until the chicken is fully coated.
3. Gradually add the breadcrumbs and mix until a dough forms.
4. Shape into small cylinders (about 1 inch long).
5. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the coxinha for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Frango à Passarinho (Brazilian Fried Chicken Bites)
This classic Brazilian recipe is a crowd-pleaser, with tender chicken coated in a light and airy batter, then fried to a golden crisp. Serve with your favorite sides for a flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry coated chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes per batch).
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total, depending on the size of your chicken pieces.
Brazilian Chicken Feijoada
Feijoada is a hearty and flavorful Brazilian stew that’s perfect for any occasion. This chicken version of the classic dish combines tender chicken, rich black beans, and aromatic spices to create a truly delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, and cooked chicken back into the pot.
6. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Galinhada (Brazilian Chicken and Rice)
Galinhada is a beloved Brazilian recipe that combines the flavors of chicken, rice, and spices for a hearty and comforting meal. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in the rice, chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the butter. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brazilian Chicken Stroganoff
Experience the bold flavors of Brazil with this unique take on the classic chicken stroganoff recipe, featuring juicy chicken, creamy mozzarella cheese, and a hint of tropical spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz cooked linguine pasta
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package directions.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add peas and carrots, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in mozzarella cheese until melted.
6. Combine cooked pasta with chicken mixture and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frango com Quiabo (Chicken with Okra)
This classic Brazilian dish combines tender chicken breast with the subtle flavor of okra, a popular ingredient in many Afro-Brazilian recipes. With its creamy tomato sauce and aromatic spices, Frango com Quiabo is a hearty and comforting meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups okra, sliced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add onions and garlic; sauté until onions are translucent.
4. Add sliced okra, diced tomatoes, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Return chicken to skillet and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with rice, beans, or crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Brazilian Chicken Escondidinho
This beloved Brazilian dish is a flavorful and hearty chicken stew wrapped in crispy pastry. A comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups pie crust dough (homemade or store-bought)
– Optional: shredded cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onions, garlic, and bell pepper until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Roll out pie crust dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (0.3 cm).
5. Spoon the chicken mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the filling.
6. Fold the other half over the filling and press edges together.
7. Brush with butter and bake for 25-30 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Frango à Parmegiana (Brazilian Chicken Parmesan)
This beloved Brazilian dish brings together the flavors of Italy and Brazil, with crispy breaded chicken topped with melted cheese, tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella. Serve it with a side of garlic rice or farofa for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet and fry the breaded chicken until golden brown.
4. Place the fried chicken on a baking sheet, top with tomato sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brazilian Chicken Acarajé
Acarajé is a popular Brazilian street food that originated from the Afro-Brazilian culture. This recipe gives you a delicious twist by incorporating chicken into the traditional black-eyed pea fritters.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black-eyed peas
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Optional: chopped onions, garlic, and cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mash the black-eyed peas using a fork until coarsely textured.
2. Add the flour, salt, and cayenne pepper to the mashed peas. Mix well.
3. Beat in the egg until well combined with the pea mixture.
4. Fold in the chicken pieces into the pea mixture.
5. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the mixture into the hot oil, forming fritters.
7. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until crispy and golden brown.
8. Drain excess oil on paper towels. Serve warm with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Frango com Pequi (Chicken with Pequi Fruit)
In this traditional Brazilian recipe, juicy chicken is paired with the sweet and tangy flavor of pequi fruit, creating a deliciously balanced dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups pequi fruit (fresh or canned)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the pequi fruit and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the flavors are fully incorporated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Brazilian Chicken Bobó de Frango
Bobó de frango is a popular Brazilian dish that combines the rich flavors of chicken, coconut milk, and spices. This recipe is a simplified version of the classic dish, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Frango à Cafreal (Brazilian Spicy Chicken)
This classic Brazilian dish is a flavorful blend of spices, chilies, and chicken, perfect for those who love a little heat. Frango à Cafreal is a staple in many Brazilian households and is often served with rice, beans, and farofa (toasted manioc flour).
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 Scotch bonnet peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the Scotch bonnet peppers and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Pour in the broth and lime juice; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brazilian Chicken Canja (Chicken Soup)
This traditional Brazilian chicken soup, also known as canja, is a comforting and nourishing meal that warms the heart and soul. With its rich flavors and tender chicken, it’s perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks of celery, chopped
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 cup of water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little bit of oil until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and water, and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Frango com Molho de Limão (Chicken with Lemon Sauce)
This classic Brazilian dish combines the tender flavor of chicken with a bright and tangy lemon sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, lemon juice, white wine (if using), garlic, and parsley. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
6. Serve chicken with the warm lemon sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brazilian Chicken Empadão (Chicken Pot Pie)
Brazilian Chicken Empadão Recipe
A classic Brazilian dish with a twist on traditional chicken pot pie, this Empadão is a flavorful and comforting meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onions, garlic, bell peppers, and paprika until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the chicken mixture and top with grated cheese.
4. Dot the top of the filling with butter.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frango com Bacon e Catupiry (Chicken with Bacon and Cream Cheese)
This rich and flavorful Brazilian-inspired dish combines tender chicken breast with crispy bacon, creamy cream cheese, and a hint of smokiness. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 slices of bacon
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy, then set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add butter and cook the chicken breasts until browned on both sides.
4. Top each chicken breast with cream cheese, heavy cream, and crumbled bacon.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cream cheese is melted.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brazilian Chicken Pão de Queijo Stuffed
A twist on traditional chicken sandwiches, this recipe combines the flavors of Brazil with a crispy pão de queijo crust and savory chicken filling. Get ready to taste the fusion!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pão de queijo crumbs (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix chicken, olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. On a baking sheet, shape the mixture into small patties.
4. Dip each patty in beaten egg and then coat with pão de queijo crumbs.
5. Place coated patties on a separate baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with grated cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your Brazilian-inspired chicken bites!
Frango com Mandioca (Chicken with Cassava)
This classic Brazilian recipe combines the richness of chicken with the earthy sweetness of cassava, making for a satisfying and comforting meal. With its simple preparation and bold flavors, Frango com Mandioca is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 large cassava tubers (mandioca), peeled and sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the sliced cassava, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the cassava is tender.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the cassava mixture.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover the flavors of Brazil with these 20 delicious chicken recipes! From grilled to stewed, fried to baked, and even croquetted, there’s something for every taste bud. Try your hand at making Moqueca de Frango, a rich and creamy chicken stew, or Brazilian Chicken Stroganoff, a hearty and comforting dish. Or go bold with Brazilian Fried Chicken Bites or Spicy Chicken Cafreal. With a mix of traditional and modern recipes, this article has something for every level of cook. Get ready to spice up your kitchen with the flavors of Brazil!
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