The aroma of Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken wafts through the air like a tropical breeze on a sweltering day. Picture tender chicken simmering in a luscious coconut sauce infused with spices that dance on your palate. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience that transports you straight to the vibrant beaches of Brazil with every savory bite.

Growing up, my family often gathered around the table for meals that brought us together—especially this one. I remember the laughter and chatter as we devoured it, each forkful bursting with flavor. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a lively gathering with friends, this recipe always shines bright in our culinary repertoire.

My friend once tried this recipe and said it was “like a vacation in my mouth.” That’s high praise coming from someone who can hardly boil water!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts; they cook evenly and soak up all the wonderful flavors.
• Coconut Milk: Go for full-fat coconut milk for richness; it makes the sauce creamy and indulgent.
• Fresh Ginger: Grate some fresh ginger; it adds a zesty kick that complements the sweetness of coconut.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves work best; their pungency brings depth to the dish.
• Red Bell Pepper: Slice up a red bell pepper for sweetness and color; it brightens up the whole meal visually.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds an aromatic touch; sprinkle on top for garnish before serving.
• Spices (Cumin & Paprika): Cumin provides earthiness while paprika adds warmth; together they create a delightful spice blend.
• Lime Juice: A splash of lime juice at the end brightens everything up; you’ll want that zing!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients together. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces while you let your excitement build—because trust me, this is gonna be good!

Sauté Aromatics: Heat up some oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger until fragrant—about 1 minute—releasing an intoxicating scent that makes everyone wonder what’s cooking.

Add Chicken & Spices: Toss in those glorious chicken pieces along with cumin and paprika. Cook until lightly browned—around 5-7 minutes—as they absorb those delightful spice flavors.

Pour in Coconut Milk: Carefully add coconut milk to the skillet. Stir gently as it melds with everything else into creamy goodness—let it simmer for about 15 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

Incorporate Veggies & Lime Juice: Add sliced red bell pepper during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Squeeze in fresh lime juice right before serving to enhance all those vibrant flavors.

Garnish & Serve!: Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Serve warm over rice or quinoa—your choice! Watch as faces light up when they dig into this tropical delight.

Enjoy every bite of your Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken—it’s not just a meal; it’s a passport to paradise!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken in spices while preparing your ingredients, then sear the chicken to lock in flavors before simmering in coconut milk for a delightful finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or tofu, add veggies like bell peppers, or sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for extra freshness and color.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat to preserve the creamy texture.

I remember making this dish for my family one Sunday, and they couldn’t stop raving about it. My brother even suggested I open a restaurant!

FAQ

Can I use light coconut milk instead?

Yes, but it may alter the creaminess of your Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe slightly.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level varies based on your choice of chili; adjust it according to your preference.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve with fluffy rice or crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce!

Print

Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

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• Author: Mery Mack
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a tropical delight featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich coconut sauce, infused with zesty spices that create an unforgettable flavor experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Cumin and paprika
• Juice of 1 lime

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Instructions

1. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Add chicken and spices; cook for 5-7 minutes until lightly browned.
4. Pour in coconut milk and simmer for 15 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
5. Stir in red bell pepper during the last 5 minutes of cooking; add lime juice before serving.
6. Garnish with cilantro and serve warm over rice or quinoa.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Brazilian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 430
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: Marinate the chicken for at least one hour to enhance flavors. Substitute shrimp or tofu for chicken if desired. Serve with rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.