Jump to Recipe Print RecipePicture this: the intoxicating aroma of Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken wafts through your kitchen, transforming a typical evening into a tropical escape. This dish features succulent chicken thighs bathed in a luscious coconut milk sauce that balances bold spices with a touch of heat, making it a delightful centerpiece for any meal. Not only is this recipe quick to prepare—perfect for those busy weeknights—but it’s also family-friendly and gluten-free. Whether you serve it over fluffy rice or alongside fresh-baked bread to soak up the creamy sauce, it promises to become a favorite in your household. Are you ready to bring a taste of Brazil to your dinner table? Let’s dive into this easy culinary adventure! Why is Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken a Must-Try? Uniqueness, this dish brings the vibrant flavors of Brazil right into your home, offering a delicious twist on traditional meals. Quick and Easy preparation means you can whip it up even on the busiest of weeknights. Versatile by nature, personalize it by adjusting the spice level to your liking. Creamy richness from the coconut milk creates a sauce that’s simply irresistible—perfect when paired with fluffy rice or warm bread. Finally, family-friendly and gluten-free, it’s an appealing option for everyone at the dinner table. Why not pair it with our Garlic Butter Chicken for a varied menu your loved ones will adore? Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Ingredients Explore the essential ingredients for a delicious dish! For the Chicken Chicken Thighs – Juicy and flavorful protein is perfect for absorbing the creamy sauce; can be swapped with chicken breasts for a lighter option. Olive Oil – Adds moisture and richness; substitute with avocado oil for a unique taste. For the Sauce Coconut Milk – Creates the dish’s signature creamy texture; alternatives like almond milk may lack richness. Onion (chopped) – Provides sweetness and depth; yellow or white onions work best for flavor. Garlic (minced) – Enhances the aromatic profile of the sauce; fresh garlic is optimal, though garlic powder can suffice. Fresh Ginger (grated) – Adds zesty warmth; ground ginger can be a backup, but fresh is preferred. Chili Paste – Introduces heat and flavor depth; adjust according to your spice tolerance for the Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken. Ground Cumin – Imparts earthy depth; omit if unavailable, but there’s no direct substitute. Paprika – Offers a slight sweetness and vibrant color; smoked paprika can add a delicious smokiness. Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings that elevate the entire dish; taste and adjust as needed. Lime Juice – Brightens the flavors with acidity; fresh lime juice is best, but bottled can do in a pinch. For Garnishing Cilantro (for garnish) – Adds a pop of freshness; substitute with parsley if cilantro isn’t your favorite. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Step 1: Marinate the Chicken In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken thighs, coconut milk, olive oil, chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, chili paste, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Ensure that all ingredients coat the chicken thoroughly for optimal flavor absorption. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for even richer taste. Step 2: Preheat and Prepare Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to create a beautiful golden brown on your Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken. While it heats up, take the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and transfer it, along with all the marinade, into a large baking dish. Arrange the chicken in a single layer for even cooking. Step 3: Bake the Chicken Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the top is lightly golden. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking, as this can dry out your delicious chicken. Step 4: Rest and Garnish Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This is key to keeping it juicy! Drizzle fresh lime juice over the chicken for a burst of flavor, then sprinkle with chopped cilantro to brighten the dish before serving. Step 5: Serve and Enjoy Serve your Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken hot, ideally over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside crusty bread. The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with these sides, allowing everyone to soak up all the delightful flavors. This dish is sure to be a hit and a comforting escape to Brazil at your dinner table! Storage Tips for Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Fridge: Store leftover Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to preserve freshness. Freezer: Freeze the chicken in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results. Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring occasionally. Short-Term Storage: Marinate chicken ahead of time (up to a day) for extra flavor, making it a perfect make-ahead option for busy evenings. What to Serve with Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken The vibrant flavors of this delicious chicken dish create the perfect backdrop for a full, tropical-inspired meal. Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The light, fragrant rice soaks up the rich, creamy sauce, making every bite a burst of flavor and comfort. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots with a hint of garlic complement the spice beautifully while making it easy to mop up the sauce. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing mix of crisp cucumbers and tangy lime counters the rich coconut flavors, providing a cool contrast. Grilled Vegetables: Smoky charred veggies like bell peppers and zucchini boost the meal’s color and offer a delightful texture, enhancing the dish’s flavors. Pineapple Salsa: Sweet and tangy pineapple adds a burst of brightness that balances the heat from the chicken. It’s a match made in culinary heaven! Caipirinha Cocktails: Refreshing Brazilian cocktails made with cachaça, lime, and sugar create a festive atmosphere, elevating your dining experience. Tropical Fruit Salad: A medley of fresh, juicy fruits like mango, kiwi, and pineapple adds a sweet contrast that complements the savory chicken beautifully. Coconut Rice Pudding: A delightful dessert that echoes the coconut flavor while offering a creamy finish to a vibrant meal. Spicy Black Bean Soup: A hearty soup that pairs wonderfully with the chicken, delivering a bold flavorscape enriched with spices. Variations & Substitutions for Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Feel free to personalize your dish for an even more delightful experience! Chicken Breasts: Substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts to create a lighter meal, just monitor cooking times as they may cook faster. Dairy-Free: If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, swap coconut milk with almond milk or cashew cream. Just note that the richness will differ slightly. Heat It Up: Adjust the amount of chili paste to suit your spice preference. If you love a kick, don’t hesitate to add more, but you can also mix in some honey to mellow the heat. Herb Alternatives: Garnish with parsley instead of cilantro if you’re not a fan; both add a fresh touch that brightens the dish. Add Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers or spinach into the mix for added flavor and nutrition. They’ll infuse the dish with extra texture and vibrancy, making it even more colorful. Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of regular for an intriguing, smoky depth that will transform the dish into something special. Citrus Twist: Alongside lime juice, add a splash of orange juice for a delightful citrusy note that enhances the tropical vibe of your meal. Grain Pairings: While rice is a classic companion, consider serving it over quinoa or alongside roasted sweet potatoes for a wholesome twist. Both options will soak up that delicious sauce just as well! Don’t forget to check out our Broccoli Chicken Penne or Peanut Butter Chicken to explore more family-loved recipes! Make Ahead Options These Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken preparations are perfect for busy home cooks! You can marinate the chicken thighs in the coconut milk sauce for up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to infuse deeply. Simply combine the chicken with all the marinade ingredients and refrigerate in a tightly covered bowl. When you’re ready to cook, just preheat your oven and transfer the marinated chicken into a baking dish, ensuring even spacing for optimal cooking. For leftover chicken, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go, just as flavorful as fresh-made! Expert Tips for Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Marination Magic: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight, for the best infusion of flavors in your Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken. Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving, preventing overcooking and dryness. Thicker Sauce: For a creamier sauce, simmer the coconut milk with spices on the stove for a few minutes before adding the chicken. Balancing Heat: Adjust the chili paste according to your family’s heat preferences; you can always add more at the table! Richer Substitutes: While coconut milk is essential for flavor, if you’re in a pinch, cashew cream can be a lighter alternative. Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe chicken thighs for the Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken? When selecting chicken thighs, look for pieces that are plump and moist with no discoloration. The meat should have a light sheen and no dark spots. Avoid packages that look dry or have a foul odor, as this can indicate spoilage. How should I store leftover Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken? Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to maintain freshness. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Can I freeze Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken? Absolutely! You can freeze the Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This will help retain the dish’s creamy texture when warmed up again. What should I do if my sauce is too thin after baking? If you find the sauce is thinner than desired, you can thicken it by simmering it on the stove. Just transfer the sauce to a saucepan, bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat, and stir frequently until it reduces to your preferred consistency. This usually takes around 5-10 minutes. Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions? Yes, the Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is gluten-free and can be adjusted for various dietary needs. If you’re concerned about allergens, confirm that your ingredients don’t include any gluten-containing additives. For a lighter option, swap chicken thighs for breasts, and ensure that any garnishes used are also gluten-free. Can pets eat coconut milk in this dish? Coconut milk is usually safe for pets in moderation, but it’s best to avoid giving them anything seasoned with spices or salt, as these could be harmful. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet, as individual dietary needs may vary. Savory Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken for a Cozy Night In This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken offers a tropical escape with chicken thighs in a rich coconut milk sauce, perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsMarination Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 50 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: BrazilianCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound Chicken Thighs or chicken breasts for a lighter option.2 tablespoons Olive Oil or avocado oil for a unique taste.For the Sauce1 can Coconut Milk for creamy texture, alternatives may lack richness.1 cup Onion (chopped) yellow or white for best flavor.3 cloves Garlic (minced) fresh is optimal.1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (grated) ground ginger can be a backup.2 tablespoons Chili Paste adjust for spice tolerance.1 teaspoon Ground Cumin omit if unavailable.1 teaspoon Paprika smoked paprika adds smokiness.to taste Salt and Black Pepper adjust as needed.2 tablespoons Lime Juice fresh is best.For Garnishing1/4 cup Cilantro (for garnish) substitute with parsley if preferred. Equipment Mixing bowlBaking DishOvenMeat Thermometer Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large mixing bowl, combine chicken thighs, coconut milk, olive oil, chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, chili paste, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, transfer the marinated chicken into a large baking dish, arranging the chicken in a single layer.Bake for about 35-40 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and is lightly golden.Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. Drizzle fresh lime juice over it and sprinkle with cilantro before serving.Serve hot, ideally over fluffy rice or alongside crusty bread. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
