Hello friends, Chef André here!
Today I’m thrilled to share one of my favorite comfort-meets-exotic recipes: Brazilian Coconut Chicken Air Fryer.Brazilian cuisine has a beautiful way of blending simple ingredients with bold flavors. Coconut milk, garlic, onion, warm spices, and tender chicken come together to create a dish that feels both cozy and adventurous.
Brazilian cuisine has a beautiful way of blending simple ingredients with bold flavors. Coconut milk, garlic, onion, warm spices, and tender chicken come together to create a dish that feels both cozy and adventurous. Traditionally, Brazilian coconut chicken is simmered slowly on the stovetop, but I’ve adapted it for the Air Fryer, giving you the same creamy flavor with less oil and much less time.
This Brazilian Coconut Chicken Air Fryer recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or when you want something different without complicated steps. Creamy, fragrant, and deeply satisfying—this dish always earns compliments.
Why This Brazilian Coconut Chicken Is Irresistible
There are plenty of reasons this recipe deserves a spot in your weekly rotation:
- Quick & easy: Ready in under 30 minutes using the Air Fryer
- Creamy without heaviness: Coconut milk adds richness without dairy
- Family-friendly: Mild spices with big flavor
- Healthy & balanced: High protein, gluten-free, and naturally dairy-free
- Meal-prep friendly: Tastes even better the next day
It’s comfort food with a tropical twist—and your kitchen will smell amazing.
Ingredients for Brazilian Coconut Chicken Air Fryer
Here’s everything you need to make this flavorful dish:
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breast)
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of ½ lime
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Smart Substitutions from Chef André
- Chicken breast works well, but thighs stay juicier
- Light coconut milk can be used, but sauce will be thinner
- Smoked paprika adds deeper flavor
- No lime? Lemon juice works in a pinch
Step-by-Step Preparation – Guided by Chef André
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, mix coconut milk, garlic, onion, olive oil, paprika, cumin, turmeric, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Add chicken and coat well.
⏱️ Tip: Marinate for 15–30 minutes if time allows (even 10 minutes helps).
2. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.
3. Cook the Chicken
Place chicken pieces in the Air Fryer basket (don’t overcrowd). Spoon some sauce over the top.
- Cook for 12 minutes, flip
- Cook another 8–10 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)
4. Finish the Sauce
Transfer remaining sauce to a small saucepan and simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened. Spoon over chicken before serving.
Creative Variations by Chef André
Want to change things up? Try one of these variations:
🌶 Spicy Brazilian Coconut Chicken
Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
🧀 Creamy Coconut & Cheese Twist
Finish with a sprinkle of grated parmesan or Brazilian queijo-style cheese.
🌿 Fresh Herb Version
Add fresh basil or extra cilantro for a brighter, herbaceous finish.
Chef’s Tips for Perfect Results
- Don’t overcrowd the Air Fryer basket—air circulation is key
- Use a thermometer for juicy, perfectly cooked chicken
- Spray lightly with oil if your Air Fryer tends to dry food
- Avoid overcooking chicken breast—it dries quickly
What to Serve with Brazilian Coconut Chicken
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Steamed white rice or coconut rice
- Air Fryer roasted vegetables
- Black beans or lentils
- A simple green salad
- Warm flatbread or crusty bread
It’s also fantastic for meal prep lunches.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in airtight container up to 3 days
- Freezer: Freeze up to 2 months (sauce and chicken together)
- Reheat: Air Fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes or gently on stovetop
FAQ – Brazilian Coconut Chicken Air Fryer
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but thaw completely before marinating for best flavor.
Can I cook this at 400°F?
You can, but reduce cooking time by 2–3 minutes and monitor closely.
Is coconut milk healthy?
Yes—when used in moderation, it provides healthy fats and great flavor.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~420 kcal
- Protein: 32 g
- Fat: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
(Values may vary depending on ingredients used.)
Conclusion – Chef André’s Final Word 🍽️
This Brazilian Coconut Chicken Air Fryer is proof that exotic flavors don’t have to be complicated. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with warmth—perfect for sharing with family or impressing guests without stress.
If you enjoyed this recipe, leave a comment, rate it, and tell me how you served it!
For safe chicken handling and storage tips, I always recommend checking USDA Food Safety:
Happy cooking,
Chef André 👨🍳