Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I was whisking up a storm in my kitchen, the scent of spices mingling with the rich aroma of coconut milk took me straight to the sun-drenched beaches of Brazil. Today’s recipe for Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is not only a delightful escape from the mundane but also an easy chicken recipe that you’ll want to revisit again and again. With a vibrant blend of creamy coconut and zesty lime, this dish is quick to prepare—perfect for those weeknights when time is short yet satisfaction is essential. It’s inherently gluten-free and can be tailored for various tastes, making it a versatile crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or intimate dinners. Ready to bring a taste of summer to your table? Let’s dive into this flavorful adventure! Why Is This Recipe So Irresistible? Vibrant Flavors: The combination of coconut milk and zesty lime offers a refreshing taste that elevates your chicken game. Quick Preparation: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a burst of flavor. Versatile Options: Feel free to mix it up—swap chicken for shrimp or tofu, or add your favorite veggies for extra nutrition. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: With its rich, creamy sauce, this dish is sure to impress at any gathering, just like our Honey Chicken Cutlets or Garlic Parmesan Chicken. Nourishing Goodness: It’s naturally gluten-free and can be adjusted for various dietary needs, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy a satisfying meal. Comforting and Exotic: Enjoy the warm, cozy comfort of home-cooked food infused with tropical flavors that transport you to brighter days. Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Ingredients • Discover the key ingredients to create this enchanting dish. For the Chicken Chicken Breasts – A lean protein that forms the basis of this dish; ensure they are of even size for uniform cooking. For the Sauce Coconut Milk – Provides a rich creaminess; shake the can well before opening to mix in the cream. For a lighter option, you can use lite coconut milk. Smoked Paprika – Introduces a deep, smoky flavor; if you don’t have this on hand, regular paprika can be substituted. Chili Flakes – Give this recipe its signature heat; adjust the amount to your spice tolerance or skip for a milder version. Fresh Lime Juice – Adds brightness and acidity; freshly squeezed juice is much more flavorful than bottled. Onion – Sautéed for depth; yellow onion is sweeter and works best in this recipe. Garlic – Enhances flavor; fresh garlic adds a pungent kick that elevates the dish. Chicken Broth – Helps flavor the sauce; ensure it’s gluten-free to maintain dietary compatibility. Tomato Paste – Thickens the sauce while adding a hint of sweetness; a little goes a long way in this recipe. For Garnish Fresh Cilantro – Brightens the dish and adds color; if cilantro isn’t available, substitute with parsley, although the flavor will change. Now that you have the essentials, you’re just moments away from whipping up this Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken that will surely ignite your tastebuds! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Step 1: Sear the Chicken Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot skillet. Sear for about 6-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, with juices running clear. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Step 2: Prepare the Sauce In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if necessary, then sauté 1 chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika and 1 teaspoon of chili flakes, stirring well to combine and cook for 1 additional minute to let the spices bloom in flavor. Step 3: Combine Ingredients Pour in a generous 1 can of coconut milk and stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste until fully blended. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, then return the cooked chicken to the skillet, ensuring it’s well coated with the sauce. Allow everything to simmer together for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld beautifully. Step 4: Finish with Lime and Cilantro Just before serving your Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken, stir in the juice of 1 fresh lime and a handful of chopped cilantro for a burst of brightness. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt or lime juice as needed. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas will surely ignite your tastebuds, ready to be served over rice or quinoa. What to Serve with Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Savor the tropical journey this dish takes you on by pairing it with delightful sides that elevate your meal. Fluffy Rice: A classic! Steamed white or brown rice soaks up the rich, creamy sauce, creating a harmonious balance with the spices. Quinoa Salad: Light and nutrient-dense, a quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette complements the dish’s bold flavors. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add a smoky note and satisfyingly crisp texture, inviting more color to your plate. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that absorbs the sauce beautifully, making it a great option for those watching their carbs without skimping on flavor. Crispy Plantains: Add a sweet twist to your meal with fried or baked plantains, offering a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy chicken. Light Salad: A simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette brightens the palate and balances the spiciness, providing a refreshing contrast. Mango Salsa: Sweet and tangy, this salsa elevates the dish with its burst of flavor and pairs exceptionally well with coconut milk. Chilled Coconut Water: Serve with a glass of chilled coconut water, its natural sweetness and hydration perfectly echoing the dish’s tropical essence. Key Lime Pie: For a sweet finish, serve slices of tangy key lime pie, complementing the zesty lime in the chicken for a delightful end to your meal. Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Variations Feel free to customize this delightful recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs, making it your own as you embark on this culinary adventure. Seafood Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a stunning seafood twist that cooks just as quickly. Simply adjust cooking times; shrimp will only take 3-4 minutes per side. Veggie Delight: Add bell peppers, spinach, or snap peas for a burst of nutrition and color. These fresh veggies not only enhance the dish visually but also introduce delightful crunch and flavor. Creamy Alternative: Instead of coconut milk, you can use Greek yogurt for a tangy, creamy sauce. Just stir it in at the end to prevent curdling, creating a lighter version that’s equally satisfying. Plant-Based Power: Swap chicken for chickpeas or tofu to accommodate vegetarian diets. These plant proteins soak up the sauce beautifully, making every bite a flavorful experience. Heat it Up: Crank up the spice by adding fresh chopped chilies or more chili flakes. A little kick will intensify the dish, mirroring the vibrant flavors you’d find in our Fiery Chicken Ramen. Citrus Boost: Enhance the dish with a splash of orange juice along with the lime. This sweet twist pairs nicely with the coconut, adding depth to the overall flavor profile. Southwestern Flair: Incorporate cumin and black beans for a Tex-Mex-inspired take. This not only transforms the flavor but adds heartiness, creating a new layer of comfort to enjoy. Sweet and Savory: Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the sauce for a sweet finish. The sweetness beautifully balances the heat, making it a delightful contrast in every bite. These variations allow you to explore your creativity in the kitchen, ensuring each round of Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken you prepare feels fresh and exciting! Expert Tips for Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Taste as You Go: Always sample your sauce while cooking to ensure the flavors are balanced and to your liking before serving. Use Uniform Chicken: For even cooking, choose chicken breasts that are similar in size; this prevents some pieces from being overcooked while others remain underdone. Adjust Spiciness: Customize the heat level of your Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken by adding or reducing chili flakes; start with a small amount and increase to suit your taste. Storage Secrets: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Flavors might actually improve, making it even more delicious the next day! Cilantro Freshness: To keep your cilantro vibrant and fresh, add it just before serving; this way, it retains its flavor and color. Experiment with Proteins: Don’t hesitate to swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas for a different experience; just adjust cooking times accordingly! How to Store and Freeze Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for a delightful next-day meal. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Be sure to label with the date for easy reference. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken again, reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of coconut milk or broth to maintain creaminess. Thawing: To thaw, transfer the frozen chicken to the fridge overnight before reheating. For a quicker method, you can use the microwave on defrost setting if time is short. Make Ahead Options These Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken meal prep options are fantastic for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of coconut milk, lime juice, smoked paprika, and chili flakes up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor. Additionally, sauté the onions and garlic, and store them separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients in a skillet, simmer until the chicken is heated through, and finish with fresh cilantro. This method not only saves time but also ensures your dish is just as delicious, allowing you to enjoy vibrant tropical flavors with minimal effort! Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe FAQs What type of chicken is best for this recipe? Absolutely! For this Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their lean protein and quick cooking time. Make sure they are uniform in size to ensure even cooking. Thighs can also work, providing a richer flavor, but will require a slightly longer cooking time. How should I store leftovers? Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I often find that the flavors deepen overnight, making for an even tastier next-day meal. Just make sure to let it cool down before sealing it up to maintain freshness! Can I freeze this dish? If so, how? Yes, you can freeze Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken! Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, allowing for some space at the top for expansion, and label each with the date. It will stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of coconut milk or chicken broth to bring back its creamy texture. What if the sauce is too thick? No worries! If you find the sauce is thicker than you’d like, simply add a splash of chicken broth or coconut milk while it simmers. Stir it well and let it cook for a few more minutes until you’ve reached your desired consistency. Taste as you go to ensure the flavors are still balanced. Is this recipe safe for those with gluten allergies? Absolutely! This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is naturally gluten-free, thanks to the ingredients used. Just ensure that any chicken broth you choose is marked gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. Always double-check the labels to keep your meal safe for those who are gluten-sensitive. Can I add vegetables to this dish? The more, the merrier! Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or snap peas to boost the nutrition and flavor. You can toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking so they retain their crunch while absorbing the wonderful sauce flavors. Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken That Will Ignite Your Tastebuds Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a delightful and easy recipe that offers a creamy coconut and zesty lime flavor profile, perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: BrazilianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken2 large Chicken Breasts Ensure they are of even size for uniform cooking.For the Sauce1 can Coconut Milk Shake the can well before opening.1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Can substitute with regular paprika.1 teaspoon Chili Flakes Adjust to your spice tolerance.1 tablespoon Fresh Lime Juice Freshly squeezed is more flavorful.1 medium Onion Yellow onion is preferred.3 cloves Garlic Minced.1 cup Chicken Broth Ensure it’s gluten-free.2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Thickens the sauce.For Garnish1 handful Fresh Cilantro Substitute with parsley if unavailable. Equipment Skillet Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsHeat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Sear for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if necessary, then sauté 1 chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika and 1 teaspoon of chili flakes, stirring well. Cook for 1 additional minute.Pour in 1 can of coconut milk and stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste until fully blended. Bring to a gentle simmer, then return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating well with the sauce. Allow to simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens.Stir in juice of 1 fresh lime and a handful of chopped cilantro. Adjust seasoning with more salt or lime as needed. Serve over rice or quinoa. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!