Savory Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken – Bold, Creamy & Fast

Savory Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is your passport to flavor town—and no, we’re not talking about some hyped-up food truck dish that disappears the second you fall in love with it. This easy weeknight dinner punches up plain old chicken with bold spices, creamy coconut milk, and a zing of lime that will have your taste buds dancing samba right there in your kitchen.

If you’re juggling work, picky eaters, and a mountain of laundry (been there, folded that), this recipe is a one-pan wonder that brings a little joy and a lot of flavor without destroying your schedule—or your kitchen. Bonus: it’s a fantastic alternative to your usual chicken-and-rice combo, and the leftovers taste even better the next day (hello, lunch upgrade!). Whether you’re new to Brazilian flavors or already addicted to bold, warming spice, Savory Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a recipe that delivers a delicious escape—no passport required.

Table of Contents

What is Savory Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken?

Savory Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a creamy, spiced chicken dish inspired by flavors of northeastern Brazil, where coconut milk, lime, and chilis are staples in many dishes. It combines the silky richness of full-fat coconut milk with the brightness of fresh lime juice and the gentle heat of smoked paprika and crushed red pepper. The result? A deeply flavorful dish that’s just the right kind of spicy—warm, not overwhelming.

The sauce thickens into a luscious, almost curry-like consistency that clings to every bite of chicken. Traditionally, dishes like this reflect a mix of indigenous, African, and Portuguese influences, which explains why it’s so bold, so balanced, and so comforting. You don’t need any fancy techniques or obscure ingredients—just a skillet, some pantry staples, and about 35 minutes. Whether served over rice, cauliflower rice, or even scooped up with crusty bread, this dish satisfies every craving you didn’t even know you had.

Reasons to Try Savory Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

If your dinner routine is stuck in the “grilled chicken again?” zone, Savory Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is your delicious way out. First off, it’s packed with flavor thanks to layers of spice and creamy richness that feel indulgent, but won’t wreck your health goals. It’s also super versatile—you can make it with chicken breasts or thighs, and adjust the spice level depending on your mood (or your kids’ tolerance for heat).

It’s naturally dairy-free and gluten-free, so it’s friendly to many diets. Plus, it’s one of those meals that tastes fancy but is secretly very low effort. The bold, tropical flavors feel like a little mini-vacation, and when you serve it over jasmine rice or quinoa, it somehow feels like you did something really special. Whether you’re feeding a family or just want leftovers that don’t taste like leftovers, this chicken checks all the boxes: easy, tasty, cozy, and a little exotic. It’s also a terrific meal prep option—make it once, enjoy it twice.

Ingredients Needed to Make Savory Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or crushed red pepper (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil, divided
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar or coconut sugar
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish)
• Optional: fresh chili or jalapeño, sliced (for garnish)
• Optional: toasted coconut flakes (for garnish)
• Optional: cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice (for serving)

Instructions to Make Savory Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Step 1: Season and Prep the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken dry with a paper towel—this helps it get that gorgeous golden-brown sear. Slice into large, bite-sized chunks. Then season with kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and chili flakes. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes while you get everything else going. This mini-marination gives your chicken a head start in the flavor department.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of oil (olive or coconut—your choice!). Add the chicken in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Sear each piece for 2–3 minutes per side until they’re beautifully golden. Don’t worry if they’re not cooked through yet—they’ll finish in the sauce. Transfer to a plate and try not to snack on them. I dare you.

Step 3: Cook the Aromatics

Lower the heat to medium and add that second tablespoon of oil, especially if your skillet looks a little dry. Toss in the chopped onions and sauté them for 3–4 minutes until they’re soft and starting to get some color. Then add your minced garlic and grated ginger—this is when your kitchen starts to smell like a tropical dream. Let it all cook for another minute until the aromatics are fragrant and softened.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Stir in your tomato paste and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly so it doesn’t burn. This step deepens the flavor and gives the sauce that rich base. Then pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth. Give everything a good stir, making sure to scrape up the flavorful browned bits at the bottom of the pan. That’s where the magic lives.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Return your golden chicken (and any of its tasty juices) to the pan. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook, uncovered, for 8–10 minutes. Stir occasionally and watch as the sauce thickens into creamy perfection. The chicken will soak up all those Brazilian flavors while the sauce reduces into something worth licking off the spoon.

Step 6: Finish with Lime and Cilantro

Once your sauce is thick and dreamy, stir in the lime juice and brown sugar. Taste it. Want it spicier? Add more chili flakes. Want more zing? Squeeze in extra lime. Then sprinkle in the fresh chopped cilantro and give everything a gentle toss so it’s evenly coated. Remove from heat and get ready to plate!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Serve this glorious dish over a bed of cooked rice, fluffy quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Garnish with more cilantro, some sliced chilies or jalapeños for kick, and a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes if you’re feeling fancy. It’s colorful, comforting, and absolutely delicious.

If you’re into spicy, saucy meals, you’ll also love this Juicy Spicy Grilled Cuban Chicken or keep that coconut craving going with this Cozy Creamy Shrimp Soup.

What to Serve with Savory Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

This dish is definitely a meal in itself, but the right side can make it shine even more. Steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice are go-to classics that soak up all that creamy, spicy sauce. Looking for something lighter? Cauliflower rice or even sautéed spinach will keep things low-carb and nutritious. If you want to stretch the meal for a crowd, serve it with warm flatbreads or crusty French bread to mop up every last bit of sauce. A fresh salad with lime vinaigrette pairs beautifully, adding brightness to balance the richness. For drinks, a chilled caipirinha or a citrusy mocktail complements the tropical vibe. And if you’ve got a sweet tooth waiting at the table, finish things off with something like White Chocolate Raspberry Bundt Cake for dessert. Trust me—your dinner guests will think you planned the whole night like a pro.

Key Tips for Making Savory Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

Want to make this dish a regular on your weeknight rotation? Here are a few pro tips. First, go with chicken thighs if you want even more flavor—they stay juicy and tender. If you’re in a rush, prep the chicken and chop your aromatics ahead of time; that’ll cut your cooking time down to under 20 minutes. Be sure to use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest sauce—lite coconut milk just won’t give the same body. For a more kid-friendly version, reduce or skip the chili flakes. And don’t forget to taste the sauce at the end—balance is everything. Add more lime for brightness or a pinch of sugar if it’s too tangy. Leftovers get even better as the flavors meld overnight, so double the batch and thank yourself later. Oh, and toasted coconut on top? It’s not just garnish—it’s the crunchy contrast you didn’t know you needed.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Savory Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken

This dish stores like a champ. Let any leftovers cool completely before sealing in an airtight container. In the fridge, it’ll stay fresh for up to three days. When reheating, do it gently over the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it, but heat in 30-second intervals and stir in between to avoid drying out the chicken. Want to freeze it? Go for it! Just skip the cilantro and garnishes, and freeze the base dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove. It’s a terrific meal-prep option that still feels like a special dinner even when it’s coming out of Tupperware.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are flavorful, juicy, and hold up beautifully in this recipe.

How spicy is this dish?
It’s mildly spicy with a warm kick from chili flakes. You can easily tone it down or crank it up depending on your taste.

Can I make this dish dairy-free and gluten-free?
Good news—it already is! Just double-check your chicken broth for any hidden gluten if needed.

What can I use instead of coconut milk?
You can sub in heavy cream or non-dairy options like almond or cashew milk, though it’ll change the texture slightly.

Is it good for meal prep?
It’s fantastic! The flavors deepen over time, making it perfect for next-day lunches or batch cooking.

Final Thoughts

Savory Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken isn’t just another chicken dinner—it’s a flavor-packed experience that’s simple enough for busy weeknights but tasty enough to impress. With rich coconut milk, zesty lime, and a gentle heat that you can adjust to your liking, it brings bold Brazilian vibes straight to your table without complicated steps or expensive ingredients. Whether you’re craving something new or just want to shake up your usual routine, this recipe checks all the boxes: quick, easy, hearty, and comforting. So grab your skillet, cue the bossa nova playlist, and get cooking—this dish might just become your new weeknight favorite. And if you’re still hungry for more, check out other easy dinner winners like Easy Thai Shrimp Soup or Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta to keep the delicious train rolling.

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