Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken
Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is rich, comforting, and deeply flavorful with just the right kick of heat.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into large chunks
- 1½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp cayenne (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1–2 tbsp chili paste or fresh chili, minced
- 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
- ½ cup chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lime
- Finish
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and cayenne.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high. Brown chicken in batches; remove and set aside.
- Lower heat to medium. Add oil, onion, and bell pepper; cook until softened.
- Stir in garlic, tomato paste, and chili paste; cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add coconut milk and broth, stirring to combine.
- Return chicken to pot, cover, and simmer 20–25 minutes until tender and sauce thickens.
- Finish with lime juice and herbs.
Notes
- Traditional Brazilian heat often comes from malagueta or dedo-de-moça peppers—swap in what you can find.
- Serve with white rice, farofa, or crusty bread.
Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is rich, comforting, and deeply flavorful with just the right kick of heat. Tender chicken thighs are simmered in a silky coconut sauce infused with garlic, chili, and warm spices, creating a dish that’s both bold and soothing.
The coconut milk mellows the spice while adding a luxurious texture, and the tomato paste brings subtle depth and color. As the chicken cooks, it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, soaking up the vibrant sauce. A squeeze of lime at the end brightens everything and keeps the flavors balanced and lively. This dish feels hearty and satisfying without being heavy, making it perfect for cozy dinners or feeding a crowd. Spoon it generously over fluffy rice to catch every drop of sauce, or serve with farofa for a true Brazilian-inspired experience. It’s soulful, warming, and impossible not to love.
