Name: Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Brazilian
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste); ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat); 1 can (14 oz/400ml) coconut milk; ½ cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); ½ teaspoon black pepper; Juice of 1 lime; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped; Cooked white rice or crusty bread for serving

Description

Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is a bold and creamy dish featuring tender chicken, coconut milk, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a flavorful and easy-to-make meal!

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ pounds (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
1 can (14 oz/400ml) coconut milk
½ cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
Juice of 1 lime
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
Cooked white rice or crusty bread for serving

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and red bell pepper, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Cook the Chicken
Add chicken pieces to the pan and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned on all sides.
Add Spices and Tomato Paste
Sprinkle smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and red pepper flakes (if using) over the chicken. Stir well. Add tomato paste and mix until combined.
Pour in Liquids and Simmer
Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the chicken is fully cooked.
Final Touches
Season with salt and black pepper. Squeeze in lime juice and stir. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot over fluffy white rice or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Notes

Mild Version – Reduce or omit red pepper flakes and chili powder.
Extra Creamy – Add a splash of heavy cream or extra coconut milk.
Vegetarian Option – Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas.
Seafood Twist – Swap chicken for shrimp or white fish.
Add More Veggies – Include zucchini, carrots, or spinach.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Brazilian

Keywords: Spicy chicken, Brazilian recipe, coconut milk chicken, easy dinner, stovetop chicken