Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Name: Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Brazilian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 1-2 red chili peppers, chopped (adjust for spice level); 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish); Lime wedges (for serving)

Author: Lora

Published: May 26, 2025

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Introduction to Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Welcome to my kitchen, where I’m so excited to share a recipe that will whisk you away to a tropical paradise—Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken! This flavorful dish isn’t just another dinner option; it’s a delicious escape, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Imagine tender chicken thighs swirled in a rich coconut sauce, tangy lime, and a hint of heat. Trust me; this dish will become a cherished favorite in your recipe box!

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is here to save your busy evenings! With easy prep and a quick cooking time, you’ll have a beautiful meal on the table in just one hour. The combination of creamy coconut milk and zesty lime creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s a gluten-free dish that your family will ask for again and again. It’s comfort food at its finest!

Ingredients for Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Ready to get started on this culinary adventure with Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken? Here’s what you’ll need to conjure up this tropical delight. Feel free to explore substitutes based on what you have in your kitchen!

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: The stars of the dish! They’re juicy, tender, and soak up flavors beautifully.
Olive oil: A healthy fat for cooking that adds depth to the flavor. Feel free to swap this out for coconut oil for an extra burst of coconut goodness.
Onion: This aromatic veggie builds the flavor base and adds sweetness when sautéed.
Garlic: A must-have for any savory dish. It enhances every bite with its savory punch.
Red and green bell peppers: They bring both color and crunch to the dish. You can also use yellow or orange peppers for sweetness!
Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a warm, peppery kick. If you don’t have fresh, ground ginger can work in a pinch.
Red chili peppers: A spice lover’s delight! Adjust the number based on your heat tolerance; you can always add more later. Jalapeños are great substitutes for a milder flavor.
Coconut milk: This creamy ingredient is what makes the sauce luxurious. Go for full-fat for richness or light coconut milk for a lighter version.
Tomato paste: This packs a flavor punch and gives the sauce body and richness.
Lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a zingy brightness that really lifts the dish. Bottled can work, but fresh is always better!
Brown sugar: Just a touch of sweetness balances the spice and acidity. You can swap in honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
Cumin and paprika: These spices bring a warm, earthy flavor that complements the coconut beautifully.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
Fresh cilantro: For garnishing, this herb adds freshness and a pop of color. If cilantro isn’t your favorite, you can use parsley.
Lime wedges: Serve on the side for an extra squeeze of zing at the table!

For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article—they’re all printed out for your convenience!

How to Make Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Ready to dive into the cooking process? Let’s turn those beautiful ingredients into a stunning dish! Follow these steps, and you’ll achieve a plate of Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken that will make you feel like a culinary rock star.

Prepare the Marinade

Start by whisking together coconut milk, lime juice, brown sugar, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a cozy bowl. The combination of coconut and lime is pure magic, creating a savory embrace.

Remember, marinating is your secret weapon! Pop those chicken thighs into the bowl and ensure they’re fully submerged in the marinade.

Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes—though overnight is best. The longer the soak, the deeper the flavors.

Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil sparkles like sunshine, it’s time to shine.

Take those marinated chicken thighs out (don’t toss that marinade!) and place them in the skillet.

Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until they’re golden brown and mouthwatering. This step locks in the moisture and flavor.

Once they’re beautifully browned, set the chicken aside. You won’t need to cook it fully just yet!

Sauté the Vegetables

Now, in the same skillet, the magic continues! Add your finely chopped onion and let it sizzle for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent.

Then, toss in the garlic, ginger, and chopped chili peppers.

The aroma will be heavenly! Cook everything for about a minute, then add the diced red and green bell peppers.

Sauté for about 5 minutes until the peppers start to soften, hitting that sweet spot of texture!

Build the Sauce

Next, pour the reserved marinade and tomato paste into the skillet, mixing well with the sautéed veggies.

Stir until everything melds beautifully. This is where your sauce begins to blossom—imagine how delicious it will taste!

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it bubble softly as the flavors dance together.

Combine and Simmer

Time to bring the chicken back to the party! Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated in that luscious sauce.

Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for about 20-25 minutes.

Keep an eye on it; you’re looking for the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it is cooked through and tender. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Serve

Once cooked, remove your skillet from the heat. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes, soaking in all that flavor.

Garnish generously with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Pair this vibrant dish with steaming rice or fluffy quinoa, perfect for soaking up that scrumptious sauce. Enjoy every bite of your Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken!

Tips for Success

Marinating is key! Give your chicken at least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better.
Don’t skip the searing step—this locks in flavors and gives a lovely color.
Taste the sauce before serving to adjust seasoning; add more salt or spices if needed.
For meal prep, make extra sauce to pair with other proteins later.
Use fresh, quality ingredients for the best flavor impact!

Equipment Needed

Large Skillet: A non-stick or cast iron skillet works great. Both will help in searing the chicken beautifully.
Mixing Bowl: Any medium-sized bowl will do for marinating. Just make sure it can hold the chicken comfortably!
Whisk or Fork: For mixing the marinade ingredients effectively.
Meat Thermometer: Useful for checking the chicken’s doneness; a simple one will suffice!

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh for a delightful plant-based version. Make sure to marinate them just like the chicken!
Spicy Twist: For those who crave heat, add a teaspoon of chili flakes to the marinade or serve with sriracha on the side.
Healthy Version: Use skinless chicken breast for a leaner meat choice. You can also replace coconut milk with a lighter broth—though you’ll miss that creamy richness!
Fruit Addition: Add diced pineapple or mango to the sauce for a sweet, tropical twist. It complements the coconut beautifully!
Nutty Flavor: Stir in some crushed peanuts or cashews just before serving for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor enhancement.
Low-Carb Version: Instead of rice, serve your dish over cauliflower rice to keep it low-carb while still enjoying all those vibrant flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken over fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa for a delightful soak-up of all that creamy sauce.
Pair with a light, refreshing cucumber salad to balance the spice.
A chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the tropical flavors beautifully.
Garnish with extra lime wedges for a zesty finish!

FAQs about Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but they might dry out a bit more. Be mindful of cooking time, as they typically cook faster than thighs.

How spicy is this dish? The spice level can be adjusted to your taste! If you prefer milder flavors, use fewer chili peppers or opt for jalapeños instead.

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the marinade and let the chicken soak overnight for deeper flavors. This dish also reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep!

What should I serve with Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken? This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or quinoa. You can also enjoy it with a refreshing salad or sautéed veggies to balance the flavors.

Is it suitable for gluten-free diets? Yes, this Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is gluten-free, making it a delightful option for those with gluten sensitivities. Just double-check all your spices and ingredients!

Final Thoughts

Creating Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken in your kitchen is more than just cooking; it’s an adventure filled with vibrant flavors and tropical vibes. Each bite transports you to sun-kissed shores, making every meal feel special. The harmony of creamy coconut and zesty lime, combined with the warmth of spices, truly delights the senses. I hope this dish brings joy to your dinner table, making busy nights a little brighter and family gatherings even more memorable. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the cooking journey, and let this recipe ignite your passion for home cooking!