The tropical heat of Brazil comes alive in this bold and flavorful Spicy Coconut Chicken dish. Rich with coconut milk, spices, and fresh vegetables, it’s a comforting skillet meal that satisfies every craving. Tender chicken thighs simmered in a creamy, spicy sauce pair beautifully with a bed of fluffy rice or warm flatbread.
This dish is ideal for cozy dinners or when you want to impress with minimal effort. With the zesty tang of lime and a fragrant burst of cilantro, this meal transports you to a breezy beachside kitchen in Bahia. It’s warming, indulgent, and full of personality, just like Brazil itself.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
-
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
-
1 tablespoon olive oil
-
1 large onion, chopped
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
-
1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
-
1 teaspoon ground cumin
-
1 teaspoon paprika
-
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
-
1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
-
1/2 cup chicken broth
-
Juice of 1 lime
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
-
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
-
Cooked white rice or cilantro-lime rice, for serving
Directions:
-
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
-
Add the chicken to the skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
-
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add chopped onions. Cook for 2-3 minutes until soft.
-
Stir in garlic, red and green bell peppers, cumin, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
-
Return the seared chicken to the skillet.
-
Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth. Stir in lime juice.
-
Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
-
Uncover and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
-
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
-
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over rice.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Discover the Bold Flavors of Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken
There’s something undeniably special about food that brings the warmth and rhythm of a place to your plate. The Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken recipe is more than just a delicious meal, it’s a sensory experience, deeply rooted in Brazil’s rich culinary traditions and tropical flair. This dish fuses vibrant spices, creamy coconut milk, and juicy chicken into a hearty, mouthwatering meal that feels like a celebration.
Whether you’re craving something bold and flavorful for dinner or you’re in the mood to experiment with global flavors, this dish delivers every time. With a perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and zest, Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is not just comfort food, it’s culture on a plate.
Brazilian Cuisine: A Culinary Melting Pot
Brazilian food is a beautiful mix of cultures, shaped by Indigenous roots, African influences, and Portuguese heritage. Over the centuries, these influences have blended together to form a dynamic and exciting culinary landscape. One of the standout elements of Brazilian cuisine is its use of coconut milk, especially in regions like Bahia, located along the northeastern coast.
Bahian cuisine is famous for dishes like moqueca (a coconut-based fish stew), acarajé (deep-fried black-eyed pea fritters), and chicken or seafood dishes simmered in coconut milk with a kick of chili. Coconut milk adds a creamy, tropical richness that plays perfectly with the heat of peppers and the aroma of herbs. Our recipe draws inspiration from these coastal flavors and presents them in a form that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying to eat.
Star Ingredients That Bring It All Together
One of the things that makes Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken so special is its carefully balanced ingredient list. Every element works in harmony to build layers of flavor, aroma, and texture.
Chicken Thighs
The base of the dish starts with tender, juicy boneless chicken thighs. Thigh meat is perfect for this recipe because it holds up well to simmering without drying out and absorbs the sauce beautifully.
Coconut Milk
Full-fat coconut milk is the star of the sauce. It gives the dish its signature creamy consistency and infuses it with a subtle sweetness that balances the spices. If you want the richest flavor, avoid low-fat versions, which can lack depth.
Aromatics: Onion, Garlic, Bell Peppers
Sautéed onion and garlic lay down the foundation of the dish’s savory profile, while sliced bell peppers add sweetness and crunch. The combination of red and green bell peppers not only enhances flavor but also adds beautiful color to the final presentation.
Spices: Cumin, Paprika, Red Pepper Flakes
The spice blend is warm and vibrant yet not overpowering. Cumin adds earthiness, paprika lends a smoky undertone, and red pepper flakes bring the heat. You can adjust the level of spiciness depending on your preference, but don’t be shy—Brazilian food embraces bold flavors.
Lime Juice and Cilantro
The acidity of lime juice cuts through the richness of the coconut milk and brings a refreshing brightness. Fresh cilantro is sprinkled on top just before serving, adding a pop of green and a burst of herby freshness.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Here’s why Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is likely to become one of your go-to recipes:
-
It’s quick and easy. With just 15 minutes of prep and under 30 minutes of cooking, it’s weeknight dinner-friendly.
-
It’s one-pot magic. The entire dish comes together in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
-
It’s gluten-free and dairy-free. Ideal for those with dietary restrictions, without sacrificing taste.
-
It’s versatile. You can swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas to make a vegetarian version.
-
It stores and reheats well. Perfect for meal prep or leftovers, and the flavor only gets better the next day.
Pairing Ideas: What to Serve with Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken
This dish is deeply satisfying on its own, but you can elevate the meal even further with a few simple additions.
Cilantro-Lime Rice
The citrusy, herbaceous notes of cilantro and lime pair beautifully with the spicy coconut sauce. The rice absorbs the sauce, making every bite even more flavorful.
Grilled Plantains or Sweet Potatoes
Sweet and slightly caramelized sides like grilled plantains or roasted sweet potatoes provide a delicious contrast to the spice and richness of the chicken.
Tropical Slaw
Try a crisp slaw made with cabbage, mango, and a light vinaigrette for a crunchy, refreshing side that cuts through the heaviness of the main dish.
Warm Flatbread or Naan
Although not traditionally Brazilian, warm flatbread or naan is fantastic for scooping up the luscious coconut sauce. It’s a fusion twist that works beautifully.
Brazilian Cheese Bread (Pão de Queijo)
If you want to go authentic, pair it with Brazil’s famous cheesy tapioca rolls. Their chewy, airy texture makes a fun companion to this creamy, spicy dish.
Tips for Success
-
Use a good-quality coconut milk. Look for full-fat versions without added sugar. A rich coconut milk makes all the difference in achieving that luxurious, creamy sauce.
-
Don’t skip the lime juice. The acidity is important for balancing the flavors. A splash of lime right at the end can brighten the entire dish.
-
Adjust the spice. Red pepper flakes can vary in heat. Start small and build up, especially if you’re cooking for others who might be spice-sensitive.
-
Brown the chicken first. This step helps lock in flavor and gives the dish depth. Don’t rush it—give the thighs time to develop a golden crust.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezing
This recipe is perfect for making ahead or meal prepping:
To Store:
Let the chicken cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To Freeze:
Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken freezes beautifully. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat.
To Reheat:
Add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating to keep the sauce from becoming too thick. Use the stove for best texture and flavor, though a microwave will work in a pinch.
Customize to Your Taste
This dish is incredibly adaptable. Here are a few fun variations you can try:
-
Add spinach or kale to boost the greens and sneak in extra nutrients.
-
Substitute with shrimp for a seafood twist just reduce the cooking time accordingly.
-
Add diced tomatoes for a tomato-coconut base that’s slightly tangy.
-
Include chili paste or hot sauce if you want to turn up the heat.
-
Toss in cashews or peanuts at the end for a crunchy texture and nutty finish.
Conclusion
Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is the kind of recipe that ticks all the boxes, it’s fast, flavorful, exotic, and comforting. With its roots in the vibrant culinary traditions of Brazil, it brings a tropical escape to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or simply want to try something new, this dish won’t disappoint.
The rich coconut milk, tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and bold spices make for a perfect one-pot meal that delivers flavor in every bite. It’s warming enough for cold evenings yet bright and tropical enough to enjoy year-round. Add it to your regular rotation and don’t be surprised when your friends ask for the recipe. 🌶️🥥🇧🇷