Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken with Rice
A Creamy, Flavor-Packed Chicken Dish Inspired by Brazilian Cuisine
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, spicy coconut sauce with deep tropical flavors.
- Tender chicken thighs simmered until melt-in-your-mouth soft.
- Perfect served over fluffy white rice for a satisfying dinner idea.
- One-pan meal that’s easy, exotic, and elegant enough to impress.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green chili (optional, for spice), minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
For Serving:
- Steamed white or jasmine rice
- Extra lime wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add chopped onion and cook for 3 minutes until soft. Add garlic, ginger, and green chili. Sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Spices & Peppers
Stir in paprika, cumin, turmeric, and sliced bell pepper. Cook for 2 more minutes to toast the spices.
Step 4: Simmer in Coconut Milk
Return the chicken to the pan. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes on low heat, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is rich and slightly thickened.
Step 5: Add Lime & Garnish
Squeeze in lime juice, taste, and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili for heat. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot over steamed white rice with extra lime wedges on the side.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Conclusion
This Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken with Rice is a creamy, comforting, and flavor-forward dish that’s perfect when you need fresh dinner ideas with flair. It’s a warm and satisfying way to spice up your weekly menu with international inspiration!
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but be careful not to overcook it—thighs are juicier and more forgiving.
Is this dish very spicy?
You can control the spice by adding or omitting the green chili and adjusting the chili sauce or paprika level.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! This dish gets even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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