Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving something that bursts with bold flavors and exotic warmth, this Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe is exactly the dish to bring some sunshine and spice straight to your kitchen. Full of tender chicken drenched in a creamy, fragrant coconut sauce and laced with lively notes of ginger, garlic, and a perfect hint of chili heat, it’s a beautiful celebration of Brazilian flavors that will captivate your senses and your appetite. Whether serving for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this dish delivers irresistible comfort and excitement all in one pan.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe lies in its simple yet vibrant ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role—from the earthy spices that create the signature warmth, to the fresh aromatics that build depth, and the creamy coconut milk that ties everything together in luscious harmony.

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds a smoky, earthy undertone that brings warmth to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Provides a lively kick of heat—adjust to your liking!
• 1 teaspoon turmeric: Offers a beautiful golden color and subtle earthiness.
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Adds a fragrant citrusy note that complements the spices.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlicky profile even further.
• 1 teaspoon salt: To balance and elevate all flavors.
• ½ teaspoon pepper: Freshly ground for a gentle heat boost.
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The tender protein star of this recipe.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil: For searing the chicken and building the sauce base.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: For sweetness and depth once softened.
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped: Adds fresh heat without overwhelming the dish.
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, chopped: Brings vibrant zest and warmth to the sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with irresistible aroma and flavor.
• 3 medium tomatoes, chopped small: Adds subtle acidity and fresh color.
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brightens and balances the richness.
• 14 ounces unsweetened coconut milk: Creates the creamy, luscious sauce without excess sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped: For a fresh, herbal finish on top.

How to Make Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mix and Coat the Chicken

Begin by combining the cumin, cayenne pepper, turmeric, coriander, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This spice blend is the heart and soul of the dish, offering layers of complex flavor that will infuse the chicken beautifully. Toss the chicken breasts into the bowl and massage the spices gently all over the meat until each piece is fully coated. This ensures every bite is packed with that signature Brazilian spice blend you’re after.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken Until Golden

Heat 2 tablespoons of your chosen oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 6 to 8 minutes on each side until they develop a gorgeous golden crust and are cooked through. This step locks in the juices and gives you that irresistible tender texture. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it loosely with foil while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Aromatics for a Flavorful Base

Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet and stir in the chopped onion, jalapeno, fresh ginger, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent, releasing a fragrant bouquet of spicy, fresh aromas that form the foundation of your sauce.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Lemon Juice

Stir in the chopped tomatoes and freshly squeezed lemon juice, seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook this mixture for an additional 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften and break down slightly, bringing sweetness and acidity that balance the bold spices and richness of the sauce.

Step 5: Simmer with Coconut Milk

Pour in the unsweetened coconut milk and stir to combine. Let this simmer gently for about 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld into a creamy, fragrant concoction that perfectly complements the chicken.

Step 6: Return Chicken and Finish Cooking

Place the browned chicken breasts back into the skillet along with any juices that have accumulated on the plate. Reduce the heat to low and let everything cook together for another 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the luscious sauce and finish tender and juicy.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro over the top for a vibrant burst of green and an herbal lift. Now your Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe is ready to delight your taste buds!

How to Serve Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

A fresh handful of chopped parsley or cilantro is all you need to brighten up the dish visually and add a pleasant herbaceous note. If you want to step it up, a light squeeze of lime juice over each plate just before serving adds a zingy contrast that highlights the creamy coconut sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with fluffy jasmine rice or coconut rice to soak up the rich sauce. For a low-carb option, try serving it alongside cauliflower rice or a simple green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. Roasted or steamed vegetables such as green beans or asparagus also complement the dish’s flavors and textures nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve the chicken over a bed of coconut-infused quinoa or with some warm, toasted flatbread for leisurely scooping. You can also turn this into a vibrant bowl meal by layering the chicken with rice, fresh avocado slices, mango salsa, and a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for an eye-catching and exotic feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe makes wonderful leftovers. Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making the chicken even more delicious when reheated.

Freezing

If you want to save this treat for later, freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When thawed, the texture and flavor hold up remarkably well, making it an excellent make-ahead meal option.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Adding a splash of water or coconut milk can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain tender chicken texture and sauce creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and depth of flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a little longer to cook through.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe has a moderate level of heat thanks to the cayenne and jalapeno, but you can easily make it milder or spicier by adjusting those amounts according to your preference.

Is canned coconut milk okay to use?

Yes, unsweetened canned coconut milk is perfect. It provides the creamy texture and coconut flavor needed without adding unwanted sweetness.

Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead of time?

You can mix the spice rub in advance and marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight to boost flavor. The sauce can also be made ahead and reheated with the chicken.

What if I don’t have fresh ginger?

Fresh ginger really shines in this recipe, but if you’re in a pinch, ground ginger can be substituted—use about 1/4 teaspoon to keep that zingy warmth in the sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe is a joyous celebration of flavor, perfect for anyone who loves a touch of heat balanced by creamy coconut goodness. Give it a try for your next meal and watch how quickly it becomes a family favorite—you’ll love how easy it is to whip up something so vibrant and satisfying!

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