This Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken is the perfect dish when you’re craving something delicious and tropical without spending too much time in the kitchen. Tender chicken breasts are cooked in a rich coconut milk sauce with a burst of zesty lime, creating a creamy, flavorful meal that will transport you straight to the beach. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon lime zest
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and browned on the outside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add chicken broth and coconut milk, stirring to combine.
Add lime juice, lime zest, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using), stirring to incorporate the flavors.
Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the chicken. Cover and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the sauce.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve the chicken with rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
Spicy Coconut Lime Chicken: For an extra kick, I like to increase the red pepper flakes or add some fresh chopped chili to the sauce.
Vegetarian Option: Instead of chicken, I can use firm tofu or cauliflower steaks for a plant-based version of this dish.
Add Veggies: I often throw in some veggies like bell peppers or spinach into the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
Storage/Reheating
I like to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I simply warm it up in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much. I also sometimes reheat it in the microwave for a quicker option.
FAQs
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If I prefer a thicker sauce, I can simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to reduce further. Alternatively, I can mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and whisk it into the sauce to thicken it instantly.
Can I use coconut cream instead of coconut milk?
Yes, I can use coconut cream if I want a richer, thicker sauce. Just keep in mind that it will make the dish even creamier and may slightly alter the flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, I can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, I just need to reheat the chicken in the sauce until hot.
What can I serve this dish with?
I love serving this dish with jasmine rice, steamed vegetables, or even a simple side salad to balance out the richness of the sauce.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check the chicken broth for any added gluten if that’s a concern.
Conclusion
This Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken is a go-to recipe when I want something quick, easy, and absolutely delicious. The combination of coconut milk, lime, and chicken creates a perfect balance of creaminess and zest, making it a family favorite. Whether I’m making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish never disappoints.
📖 Recipe:
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Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken is a tropical, flavorful dish where tender chicken breasts are cooked in a rich coconut milk sauce with lime juice and zest, creating a creamy, satisfying meal that’s quick and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon lime zest
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and browned on the outside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add chicken broth and coconut milk, stirring to combine.
- Add lime juice, lime zest, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using), stirring to incorporate the flavors.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the chicken. Cover and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve the chicken with rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
For extra heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add fresh chopped chili to the sauce.
For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with firm tofu or cauliflower steaks.
Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
This recipe is naturally gluten-free—check chicken broth for added gluten if concerned.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat the dish in a skillet with a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent the sauce from thickening too much.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-fry, Simmer
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
