There’s something about the aroma of Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken wafting through the kitchen that makes you feel like you’ve been transported to a tropical paradise. The rich coconut milk mingles with the fiery spices, creating a dish that excites your palate and warms your heart. teriyaki chicken stuffed peppers Imagine the tender chicken simmering away, ready to be devoured while you sip a refreshing drink and dream of sandy beaches.

This delicious recipe is not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about making memories. I remember the first time I made this dish for friends during a casual get-together. The laughter, the smiles, and the chorus of “Wow, what is this?!” made it an unforgettable evening filled with joy and good food. Mediterranean chicken recipe Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, this Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy dinner recipe is bursting with flavor and takes minimal effort to prepare
- Its vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes as well
- The creamy texture of coconut milk complements the spices beautifully, creating a delightful harmony in every bite
- Whether served over rice or with crusty bread, it’s versatile enough to fit any occasion
One memorable night, my friends couldn’t stop raving about how they felt like they were dining at a five-star restaurant right in my cozy kitchen.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work perfectly; adjust based on your hungry crowd.
- Coconut Milk: Use full-fat coconut milk for creaminess that elevates the dish’s richness. For more inspiration, check out this caramel coconut cookies recipe.
- Fresh Ginger: A small piece adds zesty warmth; peel and chop finely for best results.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic brings pungent flavor; 3-4 cloves minced will do wonders!
- Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust according to your spice tolerance; these little flakes pack a punch.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro garnishes beautifully; its bright flavor balances the dish perfectly.
For the Sauce:
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
- Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice adds acidity that enhances all other flavors wonderfully.
- Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness balances out the heat from spices; use light brown sugar if possible.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
- Start by gathering all ingredients on your countertop for easy access. Chop garlic and ginger finely so they release their flavors quickly during cooking.
- In a large pan over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, add minced garlic and ginger until fragrant—about one minute—stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Add chicken breasts to the pan, browning them on each side until golden—approximately 5-7 minutes per side. You want them well-seared because that’s where flavor lives!
- Pour in coconut milk along with soy sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar. Stir gently while bringing everything to a simmer—watch those bubbles! It will smell incredible as it thickens slightly.
- Sprinkle in red pepper flakes according to your heat preference. Allow everything to simmer together for about 10-15 minutes so flavors can mingle delightfully.
- Once chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), remove from heat and let rest briefly. Garnish generously with freshly chopped cilantro before serving—it adds color and freshness!
Now that you’re armed with this amazing Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken recipe, gather your loved ones around! Enjoy delicious bites while sharing stories and laughs, making memories that last long after dinner is done. spicy chicken sloppy joes.
You Must Know
- This spicy Brazilian coconut chicken is a symphony of flavors that sings in your mouth
- The creamy coconut milk combined with the kick of spices transforms an ordinary dinner into a fiesta
- Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken to absorb all those bold flavors. Sear it on high heat before adding coconut milk and spices, letting them mingle into pure deliciousness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a delightful twist. Add fresh cilantro or lime juice at the end for an extra zing that brightens the entire dish. honey butter chicken dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to preserve the creamy texture and flavors.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, let your chicken marinate overnight; it makes a huge difference
- Use full-fat coconut milk for creaminess that elevates every bite
- Always taste your sauce before serving; adjust seasoning as needed for perfection
Cooking this spicy Brazilian coconut chicken reminds me of my cousin’s birthday party, where everyone devoured it like they hadn’t eaten in days; that’s when I knew I had a winner on my hands!
FAQ
What can I serve with spicy Brazilian coconut chicken?
Serve it with rice or quinoa to soak up that luscious sauce perfectly.
Can I use low-fat coconut milk instead?
Yes, but be prepared for a less creamy texture and slightly different flavor profile.
How do I make this dish spicier?
Add more chili powder or fresh chilies during cooking for an extra kick of heat!

Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that transports your taste buds to a tropical paradise. This easy-to-make recipe features tender chicken simmered in rich coconut milk and a blend of fiery spices, creating a delightful balance of heat and sweetness. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, this dish ensures everyone will be asking for seconds. Enjoy it over rice or with some crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce, making every bite a memorable experience.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 inch fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 2 tbsp light brown sugar
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and chop garlic and ginger finely.
- In a large pan over medium heat, add 2 tbsp olive oil. Sauté garlic and ginger for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add chicken breasts; sear each side for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Pour in coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar; stir gently and bring to a simmer.
- Add red pepper flakes according to your spice preference; simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Once chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), remove from heat, garnish with cilantro, and serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (about 6 oz)
- Calories: 405
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: For enhanced flavor, marinate chicken overnight in the sauce before cooking. Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for different protein options. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove.