
Brazilian cuisine is a melting pot of flavors, influenced by indigenous traditions, Portuguese colonization, and African heritage.
Among its many delicious dishes, Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken stands out as a creamy, aromatic, and slightly fiery delight that captures the essence of Brazil’s tropical spirit.
The Flavor Profile
This dish is a harmonious blend of creamy coconut milk that adds richness and a subtle sweetness.
With bold spices like paprika, cumin, and turmeric, giving the dish a warmth and depth.
A kick of chili flakes, adjustable to suit your heat preference and fresh lime juice, which brightens the dish with a tangy finish.
The result is a luscious, flavorful curry-like stew that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or crusty bread.
Cultural Roots
While coconut-based dishes are common in coastal regions of Brazil, this recipe reflects the country’s love for bold, comforting food.
It’s reminiscent of Moqueca, a traditional Brazilian fish stew, but with chicken as the star. The use of coconut milk and tropical spices is a nod to the Afro-Brazilian culinary traditions of Bahia, where coconut and palm oil are staples.
Whether you’re craving a taste of Brazil or just want a delicious, exotic meal, Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken is sure to transport your taste buds to the sunny beaches of Rio.
A Snapshot Of Brazilian Cuisine

Brazilian cuisine is as diverse and vibrant as the country itself, shaped by a rich tapestry of indigenous, African, Portuguese, and immigrant influences.
From the Amazon rainforest to the bustling cities, each region offers unique dishes that reflect its history, geography, and cultural heritage.
A Melting Pot of Influences
Indigenous Roots: Native ingredients like cassava (mandioca), corn, and tropical fruits form the backbone of many traditional dishes.
Portuguese Legacy: Colonizers introduced staples like rice, beans, and salted cod, which remain central to Brazilian meals.
African Contributions: Enslaved Africans brought techniques like slow-cooked stews (moquecas) and ingredients such as palm oil (dendê), deeply enriching the culinary landscape.
Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 red bell pepper, seeded, deveined, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, seeded, deveined, sliced
1 orange bell pepper, seeded, deveined, sliced
1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 tablespoon tomato paste
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Cooked rice, for serving
Heat the olive oil in a large non-skillet oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the pepper strips, continue sautéing until they soften slightly but still hold their shape, about 5 minutes.
Next, add the chicken pieces, paprika, cumin, turmeric, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well so every piece of chicken is nicely coated. Let the chicken sear for 4-5 minutes, until it starts to brown, not cooked through.

Stir in the tomato paste and coconut milk. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly.

Just before serving, squeeze in fresh lime juice and give it a final stir. Garnish with chopped cilantro for a fresh, herbal touch.
Plate the chicken/pepper mixture and sauce over cooked white rice. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
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