Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and warms you from the inside out, this Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs marinated in a lively blend of spices with a creamy, coconut-infused sauce that offers just the right kick of heat. The fusion of smoky paprika, zesty cayenne, fragrant cumin, and bright coriander creates a dish that is as comforting as it is exciting. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of spice, richness, and tropical flair that will quickly make this recipe a beloved staple in your meal rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may seem simple at first glance, but each one brings something special to the table. From the juicy chicken thighs that soak up all the flavors, to the creamy coconut milk that smooths out the spices, this recipe is all about harmony and bold taste.

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (1.5 pounds): Chosen for their juicy texture and rich flavor, perfect for soaking up marinade and sauce.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds depth and a pungent warmth that starts the flavor journey.
• Paprika (1 teaspoon): Brings smoky undertones that give the dish a subtle earthiness.
• Cayenne pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adjust spicy heat to taste, infusing the dish with a lively kick.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors.
• Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Ideal for searing the chicken and sautéing aromatics without overpowering flavors.
• Onion (1, finely chopped): Provides sweetness and body to the sauce.
• Red bell pepper (1, diced): Adds vibrant color and a gentle sweetness.
• Ground cumin (2 teaspoons): Offers warm, earthy notes that balance the heat.
• Ground coriander (2 teaspoons): Brings a subtle citrusy floral tone to brighten the dish.
• Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Enhances the smoky flavors with a slightly sweet finish.
• Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14 ounces): Give tang and acidity to balance the creamy coconut.
• Coconut milk (1 can, 14 ounces): The heart of the dish, providing richness and tropical creaminess.
• Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Adds savory depth and helps develop the sauce consistency.
• Bay leaf (1): Infuses subtle herbal flavor through slow simmering.
• Fresh cilantro leaves: Perfect for a bright, fresh garnish that livens up the final plate.
• Cooked rice: The ideal vehicle to soak up every luscious drop of sauce.

How to Make Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining your bite-sized chicken thighs with minced garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a thorough mix so each piece gets coated evenly. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse deeply and the garlic to mellow and sweeten. This simple marinade sets the tone for all the bold flavors to come.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat your vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook them until they develop a beautiful golden brown crust on all sides. This step locks in juices and builds a flavorful base for the dish. Once seared, transfer the chicken to a separate plate and set it aside while you move on to the sauce.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, toss in the finely chopped onion and diced red bell pepper. Sauté these until they become soft, fragrant, and slightly caramelized, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Their natural sweetness will balance the spices perfectly and create a luscious flavor foundation for the sauce.

Step 4: Spice It Up

Next, stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, and smoked paprika. Cook this fragrant spice blend for a minute or two to toast the spices and coax out their deep aromas, enhancing the complexity of the final dish.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Coconut Milk

Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the creamy coconut milk. Stir everything together to marry the vibrant tanginess of the tomatoes with the silky coconut, creating a luscious sauce base that will hug every piece of chicken.

Step 6: Simmer with Chicken

Return the seared chicken to the pan. Add chicken broth to enrich the sauce and the bay leaf for a subtle earthy note. Mix well so the chicken is fully coated, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let everything simmer gently for 20-25 minutes. This slow cooking lets the chicken absorb all the sauce’s flavors while thickening the sauce to a perfect consistency.

Step 7: Season and Garnish

Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust salt and black pepper as needed. Remember to remove the bay leaf for a smooth bite. Sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves over the top for a vibrant splash of green and a fresh herbaceous lift that perfectly complements the richness of the dish.

How to Serve Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing with fresh cilantro is the classic choice, but you can also add finely sliced green onions or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for an extra pop of brightness. A few thin slices of fresh chili can amplify the heat if you’re feeling daring.

Side Dishes

This dish is effortlessly paired with fluffy steamed rice, which soaks up every bit of that creamy, spicy sauce. For a little more texture, consider a side of sautéed greens like kale or collard greens, which add a hearty, slightly bitter contrast that balances the richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chicken inside warm, buttered tortillas for a spicy Brazilian-inspired wrap. Alternatively, plate the chicken over creamy mashed sweet potatoes to complement the coconut’s sweetness while adding a comforting element. Using bright plates or colorful bowls lets the dish’s vibrant hues really shine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftover Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken into an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for easy weekday lunches or dinners.

Freezing

This recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor retention.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low-medium heat to avoid curdling the coconut milk. Stir occasionally until warmed through. If needed, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving at high heat to preserve the sauce’s creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

While chicken breasts are leaner, they can dry out more easily in this recipe. If you prefer breasts, cut them into slightly larger pieces and reduce simmering time to keep the meat juicy.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The heat level is moderate and can be adjusted by tweaking the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you want to tone down the spice, simply reduce or omit the cayenne while keeping the other flavors intact.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! The recipe is naturally dairy-free thanks to the use of coconut milk instead of cream, making it a great choice for those avoiding dairy but still wanting rich, creamy textures.

What can I use instead of canned coconut milk?

For best results, use full-fat canned coconut milk to achieve the creamy consistency and distinct flavor. If unavailable, coconut cream or a blend of coconut water and a little cream can be a substitute, but expect a thinner sauce.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken several hours in advance or even overnight to deepen the flavors. The cooked dish also reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prepping or entertaining.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe is truly a gem—simple enough for a weeknight yet exciting enough for guests. Its layers of spice, creaminess, and fresh herbs bring the lively spirit of Brazilian cuisine right into your kitchen. I can’t recommend it enough. Once you try it, I bet it will become one of your go-to comfort meals that you’ll return to again and again. Go ahead, give it a whirl and enjoy every delicious bite!

Print