Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe

Name: Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Brazilian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 2 tsp cumin; 2 tsp paprika; 1 tsp turmeric; Juice of 1 lime; Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Published: July 30, 2025

by Clara Harper

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The ease of preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
The combination of spices creates a mouthwatering explosion that’s visually appealing and perfect for impressing guests.
The versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences or what you have at hand.
Ideal for serving over rice or alongside fresh salad for a complete meal!

I still remember the first time I served my family this divine dish; their reactions were priceless—there were no leftovers!

Essential Ingredients

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

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are juicy and absorb flavors beautifully; feel free to use breasts if preferred.
Coconut Milk: Go for full-fat coconut milk for that creamy texture; it really enhances the sauce.
Fresh Ginger: Grate some fresh ginger for an aromatic zest that brightens up the dish.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth; two to four cloves should do nicely depending on your love for garlic.
Red Bell Pepper: This adds sweetness and color; slice it thinly for even cooking.
Spices (Cumin, Paprika, Turmeric): These spices bring warmth and complexity; adjust according to your heat preference.
Lime Juice: A splash of lime juice at the end elevates flavors and adds brightness.
Cilantro Leaves: Fresh cilantro as a garnish gives that final touch of freshness and flair.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Mince garlic and grate ginger while slicing your red bell pepper into thin strips. Set everything aside so you’re ready to cook.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Toss in minced garlic and grated ginger until fragrant—about one minute will suffice—this is when your kitchen starts smelling incredible.

Cook the Chicken: Add chicken pieces to the pan. Sauté until they turn golden brown on all sides—this should take about six minutes. Make sure they are cooked through but not dried out.

Add Vegetables & Spices: Stir in sliced bell pepper along with cumin, paprika, and turmeric. Cook everything together for another three minutes until veggies soften slightly and spices release their aroma.

Pour in Coconut Milk: Add the luscious coconut milk to the skillet. Let it simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes until thickened slightly, stirring occasionally so nothing sticks.

Add Finishing Touches: Just before serving, squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish and sprinkle chopped cilantro on top. Serve hot over fluffy rice or alongside crusty bread!

Now you’ve crafted a delightful dish bursting with flavor! Each step brings its own charm as you create something truly special that warms the heart—and stomach—while making memories along the way!

You Must Know

Flavorful spices balance the sweetness of coconut milk, creating an irresistible dish.
Watch the chicken’s internal temperature reach 165°F for perfect doneness.
Letting it rest enhances moisture and tenderness, making every bite heavenly.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken in a hot pan first to lock in flavor, then simmer it gently with coconut milk and spices for rich results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for tofu or shrimp. Experiment with different spices like paprika or turmeric for a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to maintain tenderness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Marinating the chicken overnight deepens flavor; don’t skip this step!
Use fresh herbs for a brighter taste.
Adjust spice levels according to your heat preference!

I remember the first time I made Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken; my friends couldn’t get enough! Their compliments felt like confetti at a party, and I promised them I’d share my secrets.

FAQ

Can I use another protein in Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken?

Absolutely! Tofu or shrimp are great alternatives that absorb flavors beautifully.

What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

Serve it with rice or quinoa to soak up that delicious coconut sauce.

How can I adjust the spice level?

Add more chili flakes for extra heat or reduce them for a milder taste.

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