Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and warm tropical vibes, this Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe is an absolute must-try. Creamy coconut milk meets a vibrant blend of spices, tangy lime, and the natural sweetness of bell peppers to create a rich, velvety sauce that perfectly coats tender chicken thighs. Every bite feels like a celebration of bright colors and punchy seasoning, offering a comforting yet exciting taste experience that’s sure to become one of your favorite go-to meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a key role in building layers of flavor. From aromatic garlic and ginger to the creamy coconut milk and lively bell peppers, every component brings something special to the party.

• Vegetable oil: Perfect for sautéing and providing a neutral base that lets spices shine.
• Onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when softened.
• Garlic, minced: Introduces a savory punch that wakes up the palate.
• Ginger, grated: Offers a fresh, slightly spicy zing that complements the coconut.
• Tomato paste: Concentrates the sauce with rich, umami-filled tomato flavor.
• Ground cumin: Brings a warm earthiness that anchors the spices.
• Ground chili powder: Adds that signature spicy kick to brighten the dish.
• Coconut milk (14 ounces): The creamy core that makes this recipe truly luscious.
• Chicken broth: Enhances the sauce’s depth without overpowering.
• Lime juice: Injects vibrant acidity, balancing the creaminess.
• Fish sauce: A subtle salty umami booster that heightens all the flavors.
• Brown sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness to round out the spice and acidity.
• Red and yellow bell peppers, sliced: Provide freshness, crunch, and a pop of color.
• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Tender and juicy, they soak up the sauce beautifully.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing everything together.
• Fresh cilantro, chopped: A bright, herbal finish that refreshes every bite.
• Cooked rice: The cozy, comforting base that makes the dish complete.

How to Make Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the vegetable oil over medium heat, then toss in your chopped onions. Cook them gently until they soften and turn translucent, which usually takes around five minutes. This mellow sweetness forms the flavorful foundation for the whole dish.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Ginger

Next, stir in the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger. Cook them just long enough to release their fragrant aromas—usually about two minutes. This step really wakes up your pan with vibrant, spicy notes.

Step 3: Build the Spice Base

Now it’s time to stir in tomato paste, ground cumin, and ground chili powder. Mixing these in helps the spices toast slightly, intensifying their flavors and blending them beautifully with the garlic and ginger.

Step 4: Pour in Coconut Milk and Broth

Slowly add the creamy coconut milk and chicken broth to the pan, stirring everything together. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer—it’s the moment when the sauce begins to thicken and deepen in flavor.

Step 5: Layer in Zesty and Savory Notes

Stir in the lime juice, fish sauce, and brown sugar. These ingredients add the perfect balance of citrus brightness, umami richness, and subtle sweetness, transforming the sauce into something truly irresistible.

Step 6: Add Vegetables and Chicken

Introduce the colorful sliced red and yellow bell peppers along with the bite-sized chicken thighs. Season everything with salt and pepper. The chicken starts to soak in all those delicious flavors as it cooks in the sauce.

Step 7: Simmer Until Tender

Let the chicken gently simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until it’s cooked thoroughly and tender. This slow cooking in the spiced coconut sauce makes the meat melt-in-your-mouth soft and flavorful.

Step 8: Finish with Fresh Cilantro

Once the chicken is ready, remove the pan from heat and sprinkle a generous handful of chopped fresh cilantro over the top. This herb adds a refreshing burst of color and taste that brightens the dish.

Step 9: Serve Over Rice

The final step is serving your Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe piping hot over a fluffy bed of cooked rice. The rice soaks up every bit of that luscious sauce, making each bite an absolute delight.

How to Serve Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

For a bit of extra flair, garnish with a few lime wedges for an optional squeeze of fresh acidity, or sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes on top for texture and a toasted coconut aroma. A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper also adds a subtle warming touch.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple, steamed jasmine or basmati rice, which soaks up the sauce perfectly. For a refreshing side, consider a crisp green salad with citrus vinaigrette or lightly sautéed greens like kale or spinach to balance the richness of the chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the chicken in vibrant bowls that show off the colorful bell peppers and creamy sauce, making the meal as visually inviting as it is delicious. You could also present it alongside warm flatbreads or even stuffed inside pita pockets for a fun fusion twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it an even better meal the next day.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers. Frozen chicken curry can last up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it slowly in the fridge overnight for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of coconut milk or chicken broth while reheating helps maintain its creamy consistency and prevents drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

You absolutely can, but keep in mind that chicken breasts tend to dry out a bit faster. Cooking them more gently or reducing simmer time will help keep the meat tender and juicy.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The chili powder adds a noticeable but approachable heat. If you prefer it milder, simply reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it entirely while still keeping plenty of flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Swap the chicken for tofu or chickpeas and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth. The coconut milk and spices provide delicious flavor regardless of protein choice.

What can I use instead of fish sauce?

If you want to avoid fish sauce, a splash of soy sauce or tamari offers a good umami alternative that keeps the savory depth intact.

How thick should the sauce be?

The sauce should be creamy and slightly thickened but still saucy enough to coat the rice well. If it feels too thin after simmering, cook a little longer to reduce; if too thick, add a touch more broth or coconut milk.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe is one of those magic meals that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Its balance of bold spices, creamy coconut, and fresh ingredients makes it a satisfying but exciting dish you’ll want to make again and again. Trust me, once you try it, this vibrant, comforting recipe will have a permanent spot in your cooking rotation.

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