If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors, creamy textures, and a tantalizing touch of heat, look no further than this Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe. It combines tender chunks of chicken thighs simmered in a luscious coconut milk sauce, spiced just right with paprika, cayenne, and fresh lime juice. The colorful bell peppers and fragrant cilantro bring brightness and depth, making it a comforting yet exciting meal that’s perfect for sharing with friends or family. Once you try this recipe, I promise it’ll become one of your go-to favorites for weeknight dinners or weekend feasts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe comes from simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a crucial role in building the dish’s incredible taste, texture, and vibrant colors. From juicy chicken thighs to aromatic garlic and creamy coconut milk, every item adds its own special touch.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These provide juicy, flavorful meat that stays tender even after simmering.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle, woody heat to balance the creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Delivers a smoky sweetness and beautiful color.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: This brings the bold spice kick, adjustable to your heat preference.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for sautéing ingredients and adding a fruity richness.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Gives a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings sharp, aromatic warmth that blends beautifully with the sauce.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant red hue.
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced: Offers a mild sweetness and bright yellow color for contrast.
- 1 can (13.5 ounces) coconut milk: Creates a rich, velvety base that ties all the flavors together.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Enhances the sauce’s depth without overpowering the coconut’s creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Provides subtle acidity and a hint of umami.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: Adds a fresh, zesty brightness to finish the dish.
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (plus more for garnish): Fresh herbs elevate the flavor with a lovely herbaceous note.
- Cooked rice for serving: A classic pairing that soaks up every bit of the delicious sauce.
How to Make Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Season and Brown the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken thighs generously with salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Heating the olive oil in a skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add the chicken pieces and sear them for about 4 to 5 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust on all sides. This step locks in the juices and adds a developing layer of flavor that’s essential for a rich dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Peppers
After removing the browned chicken, use the same pan to sauté the finely chopped onion for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook it just long enough for the garlic aroma to bloom, about 30 seconds. Toss in the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, cooking them for 3 more minutes so they soften slightly while retaining their vibrant color and subtle sweetness.
Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce Ingredients
Return the browned chicken to the pan with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the coconut milk, chicken broth, and stir in the tomato paste thoroughly. This mixture forms the heart of the dish, where creamy richness meets bold spices and fresh vegetables. Bring everything to a gentle simmer to marry the flavors.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender and Flavorful
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let everything cook for 20 to 25 minutes. This slow, gentle cooking process tenderizes the chicken beautifully and allows the sauce to thicken into a luscious coating that clings perfectly to every bite of chicken and pepper.
Step 5: Add Lime and Cilantro to Finish
As the final step, stir in fresh lime juice to brighten the dish with a zesty punch, followed by chopped cilantro for a fresh herbal note. This balance of creamy, spicy, and fresh layered flavors is what makes this Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe truly irresistible.
How to Serve Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
To make your presentation pop and add fresh layers of flavor, sprinkle extra chopped cilantro on top just before serving. A few lime wedges on the side are a great bonus, inviting everyone to add a little extra citrus zing if they wish.
Side Dishes
This dish is a classic match for fluffy, steamed white or brown rice that soaks up the rich sauce beautifully. For a little extra color and texture, consider serving with a simple green salad or lightly sautéed greens like kale or spinach.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, serve this chicken in rustic bowls alongside a side of warm, crusty bread to mop up the sauce. Alternatively, turn it into a vibrant taco filling with warm tortillas, avocado slices, and a squeeze of extra lime for a fun fusion twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the cooled chicken and sauce in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Be sure to leave some headspace because the sauce will expand as it freezes.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the coconut milk from separating. You can add a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce appears too thick after refrigeration.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast works fine, but keep in mind it cooks faster and may be less juicy than thighs, so watch cooking times carefully to avoid drying out the meat.
How spicy is this Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe?
The heat level is moderate, thanks to the cayenne pepper, but you can easily adjust it to your liking by reducing or increasing the cayenne amount. It’s perfect for those who love a little kick without overwhelming their palate.
Is this recipe dairy-free and gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe uses coconut milk and no gluten-containing ingredients, making it a great dairy-free and gluten-free meal option.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add veggies like zucchini, carrots, or green beans to customize the dish with more texture and nutrition.
What can I do to thicken the sauce more?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 5 to 10 minutes of cooking to let some liquid evaporate, or stir in a small slurry of cornstarch and water for extra thickness.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe is truly a celebration of bold flavors, creamy textures, and vibrant colors that will brighten any dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just fall in love with the unique blend of spices and coconut goodness that makes this recipe so unforgettable!
Print
Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Brazilian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken recipe features tender chicken thighs simmered in a creamy and flavorful coconut milk sauce with vibrant bell peppers and a hint of lime. Perfectly seasoned with paprika, cayenne, and fresh cilantro, this dish offers a delicious blend of heat and tropical richness, ideal served over steamed rice for a comforting main course.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Sauce and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 can (13.5 ounces) coconut milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (plus more for garnish)
To Serve
- Cooked rice
Instructions
- Season the chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken chunks with salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix to ensure even coating of the spices on the chicken.
- Brown the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 4–5 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: Using the same pan, add chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its fragrance.
- Add the bell peppers: Incorporate the sliced red and yellow bell peppers into the pan and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to slightly soften them while retaining some crunch.
- Simmer the chicken in sauce: Return the browned chicken to the pan. Pour in the coconut milk, chicken broth, and tomato paste. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients into a cohesive sauce.
- Cook until tender: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 20–25 minutes, allowing the chicken to become tender and the sauce to thicken and develop rich flavors.
- Finish with lime and cilantro: Remove the lid, stir in the lime juice and chopped cilantro, mixing well to blend the fresh, tangy notes with the creamy sauce.
- Serve: Spoon the spicy Brazilian coconut chicken over cooked rice, garnish with additional cilantro, and enjoy immediately while hot.
Notes
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to modify the spice level to your preference.
- Chicken breast can be substituted for thighs; however, the cooking time may be shorter as breast meat cooks faster.
- For extra richness and a subtle nutty flavor, add a tablespoon of peanut butter during the simmering step.
