What makes Brazilian Coconut Chicken with Lime different from regular coconut chicken?

Brazilian Coconut Chicken with Lime uses fresh lime juice and zest to balance the richness of coconut milk, creating a brighter, more vibrant flavor than standard coconut chicken recipes. This balance is key in a traditional Brazilian coconut chicken recipe.

Can I make this as a one pan coconut lime chicken?

Yes, this recipe is ideal for a one pan coconut lime chicken. Everything cooks in a single skillet, allowing the coconut and lime chicken marinade to turn into a rich sauce with minimal cleanup.

Is Brazilian coconut chicken with lime spicy?

The heat level is completely adjustable. You can keep it mild or turn it into a spicy Brazilian coconut chicken recipe by adding chili flakes or cayenne to taste.

What should I serve with Brazilian coconut chicken with lime?

This dish pairs perfectly with rice, making Brazilian coconut chicken with lime and rice a popular option. The coconut lime sauce also works well with quinoa or roasted vegetables.

Can I make Brazilian Coconut Chicken with Lime in one pan?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for a one pan coconut lime chicken. Everything cooks in a single skillet, allowing the coconut and lime chicken marinade to turn into a rich sauce with minimal cleanup.

Is Brazilian Coconut Chicken with Lime spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted. Add chili flakes or cayenne to make it a spicy Brazilian coconut chicken recipe, or leave them out for a milder version.

What should I serve with Brazilian Coconut Chicken with Lime?

It pairs perfectly with rice, making Brazilian coconut chicken with lime and rice a favorite option. The sauce also complements vegetables or quinoa.

Can I store leftovers?

Yes, Brazilian Coconut Chicken with Lime stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day.

Brazilian Coconut Chicken with Lime – Easy One-Pan Dinner 2026

Name: Brazilian Coconut Chicken with Lime
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Brazilian
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat for best flavor); Zest and juice of 2 limes; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon chili flakes or cayenne (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 red bell pepper, sliced (optional); ½ cup chicken broth (optional); 1–2 tablespoons peanut butter (optional); Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)

Description

A creamy, zesty Brazilian-inspired chicken dish made with tender chicken simmered in coconut milk, fresh lime juice, garlic, and warm spices. This flavorful recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and can be made as a one-pan coconut lime chicken that pairs beautifully with rice.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4):

For the Chicken & Marinade:

1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 cup coconut milk (full-fat for best flavor)
Zest and juice of 2 limes
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon chili flakes or cayenne (optional, for spicy version)
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Cooking:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, sliced (optional)
½ cup chicken broth (optional, for extra sauce)

Optional Add-ins:

1–2 tablespoons peanut butter (for Brazilian coconut chicken curry style)
Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk coconut milk, lime zest, lime juice, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 8 hours for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade (reserve marinade) and sear 3–4 minutes per side until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce
In the same pan, sauté onion (and bell pepper if using) until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Pour in reserved marinade and chicken broth. Stir well.

Step 4: Simmer
Return chicken to the pan. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce thickens. Stir in peanut butter if using.

Step 5: Finish & Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with extra lime juice or salt. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.

Notes

One-Pan Meal: Add uncooked rice and extra broth to make one pan coconut lime chicken and rice.
Spice Level: Adjust chili flakes for a mild or spicy Brazilian coconut chicken recipe.
Make It Creamier: Use full-fat coconut milk and simmer uncovered for the last 5 minutes.
Meal Prep Friendly: Tastes even better the next day.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: One-Pan / Simmered
Cuisine: Brazilian