This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is an irresistible fusion of fiery South American flavor and silky coconut indulgence. Inspired by the culinary traditions of Brazil’s northeastern coast, this dish delivers a warming balance of spice, citrus, and creaminess. With its bold blend of ginger, garlic, chili, and cumin swimming in a luscious coconut milk sauce, it’s a feast for the senses. A hint of tomato paste enriches the base, while fresh lime and cilantro elevate the final flavor.
Perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe offers global flair without needing to leave your kitchen. It pairs beautifully with white rice, quinoa, or even flatbreads, soaking up every drop of the rich sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or new to Brazilian food, this coconut chicken is easy to follow and bursting with vibrant character. It’s a flavorful way to experience one of Brazil’s most beloved flavor profiles right at home.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
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1 red chili, finely chopped (adjust to spice level)
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon turmeric
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
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1 tablespoon tomato paste
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1 lime, juiced
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Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
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Cooked rice, for serving
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and brown for 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
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In the same pan, sauté onions until soft. Add garlic, ginger, and chili; cook 1 minute.
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Stir in cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Add tomato paste and cook for another minute.
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Pour in coconut milk and lime juice, stir well, and bring to a simmer.
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Return chicken to the pan, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until chicken is tender and cooked through.
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Uncover, simmer an additional 5 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with steamed rice.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 430 kcal | Servings: 4
Brazil is a country known for its rich culinary diversity, vibrant culture, and colorful food traditions. From hearty stews like feijoada to street food staples such as pão de queijo, Brazilian cuisine is a blend of indigenous ingredients, African influences, and European techniques. One standout dish that beautifully exemplifies the bold yet balanced flavor profile of Brazilian cooking is Spicy Coconut Chicken, also known in parts of Brazil as Frango com Leite de Coco Picante. It’s a comforting, creamy, and slightly fiery dish that brings together the sweetness of coconut, the brightness of lime, and the deep savoriness of spices.
This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is not only a treat for the taste buds but also an accessible recipe you can easily recreate at home. It uses familiar pantry ingredients while delivering global flavor that feels restaurant-worthy. Whether you’re exploring new cuisines or looking for a fresh twist on chicken dinners, this dish is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.
Cultural Roots and Culinary Influence
Brazilian cuisine, particularly from the northeastern region, often features tropical ingredients such as coconut milk, lime, chilies, and fresh herbs. The use of coconut milk in savory dishes is deeply rooted in the cuisine of Bahia—a coastal state with strong African heritage. In this region, coconut milk is a key ingredient in beloved dishes like moqueca (a seafood stew) and xinxim de galinha (chicken with shrimp and ground nuts).
This Spicy Coconut Chicken recipe is a simplified, modern take that retains the soul of these traditional flavors while making the process quick and approachable for home cooks. It borrows the creamy coconut richness and layers it with spice, brightness, and tenderness, all tied together with juicy chicken and vibrant aromatics.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
There are many reasons why this Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken stands out, but the most compelling ones are flavor, simplicity, versatility, and health benefits.
1. Flavor Explosion:
This dish is the perfect marriage of spicy, creamy, zesty, and savory. The chicken is gently simmered in a luscious coconut sauce infused with warming spices like cumin, turmeric, and paprika. Fresh ginger and garlic bring aromatic depth, while the chili adds a hint of heat. A splash of lime juice right before serving adds the acidity needed to cut through the richness and elevate every bite.
2. One-Pan Simplicity:
Despite its bold and complex flavors, this dish is surprisingly easy to make. Everything is cooked in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. The recipe uses everyday ingredients and doesn’t require any special techniques, which makes it a great choice for both beginner cooks and seasoned home chefs.
3. Versatile Pairings:
This coconut chicken pairs wonderfully with plain steamed rice, but it can also be served with farofa (toasted cassava flour), quinoa, couscous, or even roasted vegetables. You can also make it part of a Brazilian-themed dinner night with sides like black beans, fried plantains, or collard greens.
4. Meal Prep Friendly:
This dish keeps well in the fridge for several days and even improves in flavor as it sits. It can be portioned for meal prep or reheated for quick lunches and dinners throughout the week.
5. Customizable Heat Level:
Whether you’re spice-shy or love to sweat, this recipe can be easily adjusted to suit your palate. Use a milder chili or reduce the quantity if you’re sensitive to heat, or go all-in with habaneros if you’re feeling bold.
Health Benefits of Coconut Chicken
This dish is not just about indulgence—it also brings some nutritional perks to the table. Here’s why it’s more than just comfort food:
High in Protein:
Chicken thighs are rich in protein, which supports muscle repair, immune health, and satiety. Protein also plays a role in maintaining steady energy levels throughout the day.
Rich in Healthy Fats:
Coconut milk provides medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are easily digestible fats known to promote heart health and support brain function. While coconut milk is high in saturated fat, research suggests that MCTs may not have the same negative impact on cholesterol as other saturated fats.
Anti-inflammatory Spices:
Turmeric, cumin, and ginger all have well-documented anti-inflammatory properties. Including them regularly in meals may help reduce inflammation, support digestion, and boost immunity.
Digestive Support:
Garlic and ginger are also excellent for the gut. They stimulate digestion, aid in nutrient absorption, and can help ease bloating and indigestion.
Fresh Herbs and Citrus Boost:
Lime juice is a great source of vitamin C and enhances iron absorption from the chicken. Cilantro adds not only flavor but also antioxidants that support detoxification.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or hosting guests, this dish adapts to the occasion. It’s elegant enough to impress but easy enough for weeknights. Serve it in a shallow bowl over fluffy rice for a warm, comforting meal, or plate it with grilled vegetables for a lighter, low-carb option.
It’s also a great conversation starter. With its roots in Brazilian cuisine and its unique flavor profile, this dish can spark curiosity and appreciation for global cooking traditions.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
- Serve it over jasmine rice or coconut rice for extra tropical flair.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or baby spinach during the simmering stage for a one-pan complete meal.
- Make it pescatarian by swapping the chicken with firm white fish or shrimp.
- Turn it into a soup by adding chicken stock and thinning out the sauce. Serve with crusty bread or cornbread.
- For a richer texture, finish with a swirl of cream or a spoon of plain Greek yogurt just before serving.
Tips for Best Results
- Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest texture. Light versions tend to curdle or water down the sauce.
- Brown the chicken first to lock in flavor before simmering it in the sauce.
- Don’t skip the lime juice. It adds brightness and balances the richness of the coconut milk.
- Garnish generously. Fresh cilantro or parsley adds color, freshness, and a pop of herbaceous flavor.
Conclusion
Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a dish that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be boring—or time-consuming. It’s packed with bold, dynamic flavors and nourishing ingredients that warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re new to international cooking or just want to spice up your weeknight routine, this recipe is a gateway to something both exciting and satisfying.
With its cultural richness, easy preparation, and crowd-pleasing taste, this dish is more than a recipe—it’s an experience. Bring a taste of Brazil into your kitchen and let this creamy, spicy, tropical chicken dish be the star of your next meal.