Hello, welcome to my beautiful world! My name is Prisca Bush. I am a food lover; I enjoy writing about my favorite recipes.

Introduction

There are moments in cooking that completely transport you to another place, and for me, the first time I made this Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe was one of those moments. I had just returned from a trip to Brazil and was craving the vibrant, tropical flavors I had experienced there—the sweet aroma of coconut milk mingling with fiery spices, the rich, golden sauce clinging to tender chicken, and the hint of lime that made every bite fresh and bright.

I wanted to recreate that memory in my own kitchen, and after a little experimentation, I developed this Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe. It’s creamy, zesty, and spicy all at once, offering a balance of flavors that dance on your palate. Perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or even when you simply want to impress guests with something exotic yet approachable.

Each bite feels like a little escape—a delicious journey to Brazil without leaving your home. Whether you’re a fan of spicy foods, coconut-based sauces, or just crave something new, this dish delivers bold, layered flavors you won’t forget.

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Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe (2026)

Ingredients for Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe

Here’s everything you need to make this tropical-inspired, Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe. Serves 4–6 people.

For the Chicken

2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Coconut Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1-2 fresh red chilies, finely chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon cayenne for milder heat)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 can (14 oz / 400 ml) coconut milk
1/2 cup chicken broth
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes

Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
Sliced red chilies
Lime wedges
Toasted coconut flakes

How to Prepare Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe

Follow these steps to bring the vibrant flavors of Brazil into your kitchen.

Step 1: Season the Chicken

In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
Let it marinate for at least 15–20 minutes for the best flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Sear for 3–4 minutes per side until lightly browned.
Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed.
Sauté the onions until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
Add garlic and chopped chilies, and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Spices

Stir in ground cumin, coriander, and turmeric.
Cook for 30 seconds to release the flavors and aromas.

Step 5: Build the Coconut Sauce

Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth.
Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
Return the seared chicken to the pan.

Step 6: Simmer Until Tender

Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
The sauce should thicken slightly and coat the chicken.

Step 7: Add Fresh Lime and Adjust Seasoning

Squeeze the juice of one lime into the sauce for brightness.
Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or chili heat as needed.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped cilantro or parsley.
Add sliced red chilies, lime wedges, or toasted coconut flakes for extra flavor and presentation.
Serve hot with your choice of sides.

How to Serve Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe

This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides:

Rice: White rice, jasmine rice, or coconut rice soak up the sauce perfectly.
Grains: Quinoa or farro for a slightly nutty texture.
Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or roasted bell peppers.
Bread: Crusty bread or baguette for mopping up the sauce.
Salads: A simple green salad with lime vinaigrette adds freshness.

Serving it with coconut rice or a bright, crisp salad balances the richness of the sauce beautifully.

Tips for the Best Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe

1. Use Chicken Thighs for Juiciness

They remain tender and absorb the flavors of the sauce better than chicken breasts.

2. Adjust the Heat

Start with one chili if you prefer milder heat. Add more or use cayenne for a spicier kick.

3. Toast the Spices

Briefly cooking spices before adding liquid intensifies their flavor.

4. Coconut Milk Options

Full-fat coconut milk gives the creamiest, richest sauce, but light coconut milk works if you prefer fewer calories.

5. Let It Simmer Gently

Avoid boiling too aggressively to prevent the coconut milk from separating.

6. Fresh Lime Juice is Key

It balances the richness and adds a bright, tangy flavor.

7. Meal Prep Friendly

This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days and even tastes better as the flavors meld.

Variations

Here are a few ways to mix it up:

1. Tropical Fruit Twist

Add diced mango or pineapple chunks during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a sweet-spicy contrast.

2. Creamy Peanut Coconut Chicken

Stir in 2 tablespoons of peanut butter for a Thai-Brazilian fusion twist.

3. Vegetable-Packed Version

Add bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans for extra color and nutrition.

4. Spicy Shrimp Version

Swap chicken for shrimp for a lighter, seafood version. Cook shrimp for 3–4 minutes until just pink.

5. Slow Cooker Option

Brown chicken and sauté aromatics, then combine everything in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–5 hours.

6. Coconut Cream Upgrade

Use coconut cream instead of milk for an ultra-rich, decadent sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts cook faster and can dry out. Reduce simmering time to 10–12 minutes.

2. How spicy is this Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe?

It’s moderately spicy. Adjust chili or cayenne to your preference.

3. Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

4. Can I freeze it?

Yes, this dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

5. What sides go best with this chicken?

Coconut rice, quinoa, steamed vegetables, or fresh salads pair perfectly.

6. Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally dairy-free if you use coconut milk and avoid any optional cheese garnishes.

7. Can I use canned chicken?

Fresh chicken is best for texture and flavor, but you could use pre-cooked chicken; add it toward the end to heat through.

8. Can I make it less oily?

Use minimal oil for searing and a non-stick pan. Light coconut milk reduces overall fat as well.

9. How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes. You can also add 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water if needed.

10. Can I add other herbs?

Yes! Brazilian cuisine often incorporates cilantro, parsley, and green onions. Fresh herbs added at the end enhance flavor.

Final Thoughts

Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe is a celebration of bold, tropical flavors that feels both exotic and comforting. The creamy coconut sauce, fragrant spices, and tender chicken create a dish that’s perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or special occasions when you want something unique yet approachable.

With just a few fresh ingredients, you can transport yourself to the vibrant streets of Brazil with every bite. It’s spicy, tangy, creamy, and utterly delicious—a dish that will impress anyone at your table.

Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the suggested variations, this Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe is versatile, flavorful, and guaranteed to become a favorite. Pair it with coconut rice, a fresh salad, or some crusty bread, and you’ve got a complete, satisfying meal that’s sure to earn rave reviews.

This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe is more than a dinner—it’s a culinary adventure that brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of tropical paradise to your home kitchen.

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