If you are craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and creamy comfort, this Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. It masterfully balances the tropical richness of coconut milk with the bright, zesty punch of lime, creating a sauce that wraps tender chicken pieces in a gorgeous, aromatic embrace. Easy to prepare yet impressive enough for guests, this recipe brings a touch of island sunshine to your dinner table every time you make it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s truly delightful about this recipe is how straightforward yet essential each ingredient is, working together to create layers of taste, texture, and color that make the dish pop. From fresh herbs that bring a lively finish to the creamy coconut base, every component plays a starring role.
- 2 large chicken breasts (cut into 1″ pieces): Opt for boneless to ensure quick, even cooking and easy eating.
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides the perfect base for sautéing and adds a fruity richness.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: A handy seasoning that infuses the chicken with gentle garlic flavor.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to balance and enhance the overall flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic delivers an aromatic kick that wakes up the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (minced): Brings warmth and a subtle zing that cuts through the creaminess.
- 1 (13.5 ounce) can coconut milk (full fat): The heart of the dish, creating luscious creaminess and tropical notes.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice + zest of 1 lime: Both juice and zest brighten and elevate the sauce with citrus vibrancy.
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar: Balances acidity and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- 1 small handful fresh basil (chopped): Adds a fresh, slightly peppery herbaceous note.
- 1 small handful fresh cilantro (chopped): Lends a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the lime perfectly.
- 1 small handful scallions (chopped): Provides a sharp, green freshness as a final touch.
How to Make Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Sprinkle on the garlic powder, salt, and pepper directly on your cutting board as you work. This simple seasoning lays the groundwork for juicy, flavorful bites in every piece of chicken.
Step 2: Sauté Onions for a Savory Base
Chop the onion and add it to a deep skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat. Cooking the onions until they soften and turn fragrant, about 5 minutes, builds a savory aroma and sweet undertone that enriches the sauce later.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Introduce the seasoned chicken pieces to the pan, cooking them thoroughly for around 5 minutes while stirring occasionally. Once golden, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside. This browning step seals in juices and adds a slight crispness to the chicken’s exterior.
Step 4: Infuse with Garlic and Ginger
To the same skillet, add minced garlic and ginger, stirring briskly for just 30 seconds. This quick step releases their essential oils and fragrant qualities without burning, layering in fresh, vibrant flavors.
Step 5: Create the Coconut Lime Sauce
Pour in the coconut milk, giving the can a good shake first to mix the cream and liquid evenly. Stir in the lime juice, lime zest, and brown sugar. Lower the heat to medium and let this beautiful sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes until it reduces slightly. This does not thicken drastically but concentrates the flavor into a silky, rich sauce.
Step 6: Combine and Finish
Return the chicken to the pan and cook everything together for a few more minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up all those delicious flavors. Just before serving, stir in fresh cilantro, basil, and scallions for a fresh, herbaceous finish. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to suit your taste.
How to Serve Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Freshness is key for garnishing this dish. Sprinkle extra cilantro, basil, and scallions over each plate for vibrant color and herbaceous punch. A wedge of lime on the side encourages everyone to add an extra squeeze of citrus brightness to their liking, amplifying the dish’s refreshing qualities.
Side Dishes
This Coconut Lime Chicken pairs wonderfully with fluffy white rice, which soaks up the luscious sauce perfectly. For a low-carb option, steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans bring complementary crunch and nutrition. Even a bed of coconut rice would deepen the tropical vibe beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or family dinner, serve the chicken in a vibrant bowl with the colorful herbs on top and lime wedges artfully arranged. You could also pile the coconut lime chicken over warm tortillas for a tropical-inspired taco night twist, or spoon it over quinoa for a hearty, wholesome meal with texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Refrigerate leftover coconut lime chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld beautifully, making it an excellent next-day meal that tastes just as good, if not better.
Freezing
If you want to save time for future meals, this dish freezes well. Store portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently over medium-low heat on the stove to preserve the creamy texture of the sauce. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water or coconut milk if the sauce thickens too much. Microwaving on medium power also works; just cover to keep moisture in.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even more flavorful and tender, and they work beautifully in this Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.
Is it possible to use light coconut milk?
Yes, light coconut milk can be used for a lower-fat version, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. For the full indulgent experience, full-fat coconut milk really shines in this recipe.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Definitely! You can chop, season, and even pre-cook the chicken a day ahead. The sauce can be made ahead too, and then combined just before serving to keep everything fresh.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
While fresh basil, cilantro, and scallions add wonderful brightness, you can substitute with dried herbs if needed. Use about one-third the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor, but fresh is always best for this recipe.
Can this dish be made spicy?
Yes! Adding a bit of chopped fresh chili or a pinch of red pepper flakes during the garlic and ginger step gives a lovely heat that complements the creamy coconut and zesty lime.
Final Thoughts
This Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe is such a joyful addition to any weeknight or special occasion meal, blending tropical flavors with comforting creaminess that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how effortlessly it brightens your dinner routine while impressing everyone at your table!
Print
Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion, Tropical
Description
A vibrant and creamy Coconut Lime Chicken dish featuring tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich coconut milk sauce infused with fresh lime, garlic, ginger, and herbs. Perfectly balanced with zestiness and sweetness, this flavorful stovetop recipe comes together quickly and is ideal for serving over rice or your favorite sides.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into 1″ pieces
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
Liquids and Flavorings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 (13.5 ounce) can coconut milk (full fat)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
Fresh Herbs and Garnishes
- 1 small handful fresh basil, chopped (or more, to taste)
- 1 small handful fresh cilantro, chopped (or more, to taste)
- 1 small handful scallions, chopped (or more, to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-size pieces and season them with garlic powder, salt, and pepper directly on the cutting board to ensure even coating.
- Sauté Onions: Chop the onion and heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet with the onions. Cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is lightly browned. Then transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: To the same skillet, stir in the minced garlic and ginger. Cook and stir for about 30 seconds to release their aromas.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the full-fat coconut milk, along with the lime juice, lime zest, and brown sugar. Shake the coconut milk can before opening for optimal texture. Reduce the heat to medium and allow the sauce to simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, partially reducing to concentrate flavors and slightly thicken.
- Finish Cooking: Return the chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook for a few more minutes to heat through and meld with the sauce. Just before serving, fold in the chopped cilantro, basil, and scallions. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately with rice and extra lime wedges and herbs for garnish.
Notes
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of red chili flakes while cooking the garlic and ginger.
- Use full-fat coconut milk for a creamier texture and richer flavor.
- Serve this dish over steamed jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh herbs can be adjusted to your taste or substituted with parsley if necessary.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
