Name: Deliciously Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken for Quick Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 tsp Cumin (Adds warm, earthy flavors.); 1 tsp Cayenne Pepper (Provides heat; adjust based on spice tolerance.); 1 tsp Turmeric (Offers distinct color and earthy taste.); 1 tsp Coriander (Enhances the sauce's flavor.); 1 tsp Garlic Powder (Provides depth in flavor.); to taste Salt (Essential for flavor enhancement.); to taste Pepper (Essential for flavor enhancement.); 4 pieces Chicken Breasts (boneless, skinless) (Main protein; thighs can be substituted.); 2 tbsp Olive Oil or Coconut Oil (For cooking; coconut oil adds coconut flavor.); 1 medium Onion (Adds sweetness and depth.); 1 medium Jalapeno Pepper (Contributes heat and freshness.); 1 inch Fresh Ginger (Adds fragrance and warmth.); 2 cloves Garlic (minced) (Offers strong aromatic flavor.); 2 cups Tomatoes (chopped) (Adds acidity and body to the sauce.); 2 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice (Brightens dish flavor.); 1 can Unsweetened Coconut Milk (Creaminess without added sweetness.); to taste Fresh Parsley or Cilantro (For garnish and added freshness.)

As I walked through the bustling streets of Rio, the air was alive with the enticing aromas of spices and savory dishes. It was here that I first savored a delicious plate of Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken, a dish that perfectly balances heat and creaminess, making it an instant favorite in my kitchen. This recipe not only whisks you away to vibrant Brazilian flavors, but it’s also incredibly easy to whip up for a weeknight dinner, taking just 50 minutes from start to finish. With options to adjust the spice level and choose between chicken breasts or thighs, it’s a versatile crowd-pleaser that transforms everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. Ready to bring a taste of Brazil into your home? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why is This Chicken Recipe Irresistible?

Flavorful and Creamy: Dive into a sauce bursting with ginger and spices that envelops juicy chicken, creating a dish that’s both warming and surprisingly light.

Versatile options: Choose between chicken breasts or thighs based on your preference for juiciness, and freely adjust the spice levels to suit your palate.

Quick Preparation: This easy weeknight dinner takes just 50 minutes, making it perfect for those bustling evenings when you want a homemade meal without the fuss.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is sure to impress and satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Pairing Options: Serve it over fluffy jasmine rice to soak up the aromatic sauce or with crusty bread, just like I did on my trip to Brazil—each bite will transport you!

Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Ingredients

For the Spice Mixture
• Cumin – Adds warm, earthy flavors. Can substitute with ground coriander for a different aromatic.
• Cayenne Pepper – Provides heat; adjust based on spice tolerance. Optional to reduce or increase for desired spiciness.
• Turmeric – Offers a distinct color and earthy taste. Substitutable with curry powder for a similar flavor profile.
• Coriander – Enhances the sauce’s flavor; can be omitted if unavailable.
• Garlic Powder – Provides depth in flavor. Fresh garlic can be used if preferred.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for flavor enhancement. Adjust to personal taste.

For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts (boneless, skinless) – Main protein; thighs can be substituted for a juicier option.
• Olive Oil or Coconut Oil – For cooking; coconut oil adds coconut flavor, while olive oil provides a lighter note.

For the Aromatics and Sauce
• Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; use yellow or white onion.
• Jalapeno Pepper – Contributes heat and freshness; can be omitted for a milder dish.
• Fresh Ginger – Adds fragrance and warmth; dried ginger can be a substitute, but fresher is preferable.
• Garlic (minced) – Offers strong aromatic flavor; feel free to adjust according to preference.
• Tomatoes (chopped) – Adds acidity and body to the sauce; canned tomatoes can be used if fresh are unavailable.
• Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens dish flavor; vinegar can be used as a tangy alternative.
• Unsweetened Coconut Milk – Creaminess without added sweetness; ensure unsweetened version for best flavor.
• Fresh Parsley or Cilantro – For garnish and added freshness; optional, but recommended for color contrast.

This deliciously Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken recipe is jam-packed with flavor and can easily be tailored to your liking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mixture
In a large bowl, combine cumin, cayenne pepper, turmeric, coriander, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until fully blended, creating a fragrant spice mixture that will elevate your Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken. This step only takes a few minutes, but it sets the foundation for the rich flavors to come.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Take the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and rub the prepared spice mixture all over them, ensuring an even coverage on both sides. Feel free to use your hands to massage the spices into the meat for maximum flavor penetration. After coating, set the chicken aside for about 10 minutes to allow the spices to infuse.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of either olive oil or coconut oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the spiced chicken breasts and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, until they turn golden brown and cook through. You’ll know they’re ready when the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary, then sauté chopped onion, jalapeno, minced ginger, and garlic over medium heat. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is softened and translucent. This step helps build layers of flavor for your Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken.

Step 5: Create the Sauce
Add the chopped tomatoes and fresh lemon juice to the skillet with the sautéed aromatics. Stir everything together, season with salt and pepper, and let it cook for around 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices. This will create a vibrant, aromatic base for your creamy sauce.

Step 6: Incorporate Coconut Milk
Pour in the unsweetened coconut milk, combining it well with the sautéed vegetables and tomatoes. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes over low heat, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly and develops a creamy texture, perfect for enveloping the chicken.

Step 7: Combine and Serve
Return the browned chicken and its juices to the skillet, reducing the heat to low. Let everything simmer together for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors. Before serving your Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and brightness against the creamy sauce.

Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Variations

Feel free to play around with this recipe, creating your perfect version of this Brazilian delight!

Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs to enhance juiciness and flavor. Thighs tend to offer a richer taste that’s hard to resist!
Heat Level Adjustment: Omit the jalapeño and cayenne for a milder dish or add extra cayenne for more kick. Tailoring the spice to your preference ensures a joyous meal.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in bell peppers or zucchini during the sautéing step for added nutrition and texture. The colors and flavors will brighten the dish even more!
Coconut Milk Variations: Swap unsweetened coconut milk for light coconut milk if you prefer a lighter sauce without sacrificing creaminess. It’s a simple way to reduce richness while still enjoying this dish’s delightful flavors.
Fresh Herb Garnish: Substitute parsley with fresh cilantro for a more traditional Brazilian touch. The powerful flavor of cilantro beautifully complements the spices in the chicken.
Curry Twist: Replace turmeric with curry powder for a completely different twist. This substitution offers a delightful combination of spices reminiscent of many Brazilian dishes.
Citrus Melody: Use lime juice instead of lemon juice to add a unique zesty flavor. It’ll brighten the dish and offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce.
Noodle Variation: Serve the chicken and sauce over cooked rice noodles instead of jasmine rice. It creates a comforting, slurpy satisfaction that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the sauce.

For more inspiration, you might enjoy trying out my Hawaiian Chicken Sheet or check out the vibrant spices in Bang Bang Chicken. Let your creativity shine while savoring this Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken!

How to Store and Freeze Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days. Reheat on medium-low heat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken in a well-sealed container for up to 1 month. Label with the date to keep track.

Thawing: To thaw, transfer to the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat on the stove or microwave until hot, stirring to ensure even warming.

Make Ahead Options

These Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken delights are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the spice mixture and coat the chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance; simply rub the spices onto the chicken and refrigerate in a covered container to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. The sautéed aromatics can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, sauté the prepared aromatics, create the sauce, and incorporate the marinated chicken for a quick cook time—resulting in a dish that’s just as delicious as if it were freshly made! Enjoy the ease and comfort of a homemade meal, all while saving precious time on busy weeknights.

Expert Tips for Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Spice Adjustment: Tailor the heat by modifying cayenne and jalapeño amounts to suit your taste, remembering that cooking enhances spice levels.

Meat Choice: Opt for chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier texture; they tend to be more flavorful compared to breasts.

Reheat & Store: This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken keeps well in the fridge for 3-5 days, and it reheats beautifully. Freeze leftovers for up to a month.

Sauce Consistency: If you find the sauce too thin, let it simmer longer to thicken, ensuring it clings perfectly to rice or bread.

Garnish Brightness: Adding fresh parsley or cilantro not only enhances flavor but also adds a vibrant touch—a delightful finish to your dish!

What to Serve with Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

A culinary journey awaits as we create a vibrant, satisfying meal alongside your irresistible chicken dish.

Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The perfect vessel to soak up the rich coconut sauce, balancing the spice while adding a comforting texture.
Crispy Roasted Vegetables: Roasting brings out natural sweetness, adding a flavorful contrast that complements the creamy chicken delightfully.
Garlicky Green Beans: Their fresh crunch and garlicky charm provide a bright, vibrant accompaniment to the bold flavors of this dish.
Sweet Plantains: Their caramelized sweetness beautifully offsets the heat, offering a delightful flavor contrast to the spicy elements.
Cilantro-Lime Quinoa: A protein-packed side with a zesty kick that pairs fabulously, enhancing the overall meal experience.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: A refreshing, cooling side to balance the warmth, mingling well with the bold spices in the chicken.

Finish things off with a chilled glass of Caipirinha for a taste of Brazil or a light mango sorbet to serve as a sweet dessert!

Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
For the Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are commonly used, but I often recommend chicken thighs for added juiciness and flavor. Thighs tend to hold moisture better, making them an excellent choice if you’re looking for richer taste.

Can I adjust the heat level?
Absolutely! The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can reduce or increase the amount of cayenne pepper and jalapeño based on your personal spice tolerance. For a milder version, simply omit the jalapeño entirely, and use less cayenne pepper. On the flip side, if you want more heat, add extra of both!

How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers of the Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. When reheating, set your stovetop to medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming, or use the microwave until heated through.

How do I freeze this dish?
To freeze your Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it into a well-sealed, freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to 1 month. Make sure to label the container with the date! When it’s time to enjoy, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight, then reheat on low until hot.

What if the sauce is too thin?
If you find that your sauce is thinner than you’d like, no worries! Simply allow it to simmer uncovered for a bit longer on low heat. This will help concentrate the flavors and thicken the sauce. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Aim for a creamy consistency that coats the chicken nicely!

Are there any dietary restrictions to consider?
Yes, since this dish is naturally gluten-free, it’s a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities. However, if you’re cooking for pets, take care to avoid feeding them any onion or garlic, as these can be harmful to them. Always check for allergies with guests, especially when using spices and fresh herbs.