Name: Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Brazilian
Ingredients: 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1-2 fresh red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste); 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat); 1 can (14 oz/400 ml) coconut milk; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon lime juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a vibrant and creamy dish that brings the warmth of tropical flavors to your dinner table. With tender chicken simmered in a rich coconut milk sauce, this dish is infused with bold Brazilian spices and a spicy kick that will make every bite a memorable experience. It’s perfect for anyone craving a flavorful, aromatic meal with a touch of heat!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 large onion, finely chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon smoked paprika

1-2 fresh red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

1 can (14 oz/400 ml) coconut milk

1/2 cup chicken broth

1 tablespoon lime juice

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken chunks and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside.

In the same pan, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 4 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and chopped chilies, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Cook the spices for about 1 minute to release their aroma.

Return the browned chicken to the pan and pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth. Stir well to combine everything.

Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Stir in the lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Variations

Add more vegetables: You can add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or even sweet potatoes to this dish for extra nutrition and flavor.

Change the protein: While chicken thighs are tender and perfect for this recipe, you could also try using chicken breasts or even shrimp for a different variation.

Make it spicier: If you love heat, add more chilies or a dash of hot sauce to increase the spice level.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making the dish even tastier the next day.

Reheating: To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little extra chicken broth or coconut milk to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time! The flavors will actually deepen if allowed to sit for a few hours or overnight in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.

Can I use coconut cream instead of coconut milk?

Coconut cream will make the sauce even richer and creamier, so it’s a great option if you prefer a thicker sauce. However, you may need to adjust the amount of liquid (chicken broth) to get the consistency you like.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes! To make it in a slow cooker, simply brown the chicken, sauté the onions and spices, and then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is tender.

What should I serve with this dish?

This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or even a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Is this recipe gluten-free and dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe is both gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Conclusion

Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, bold spices, and coconut milk makes for a hearty meal that’s full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner, this dish is sure to impress.

Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Ingredients

Directions

Servings and Timing

Variations

Storage/Reheating