This creamy coconut lime chicken is a real treat! Tender chicken shines in a luscious coconut sauce with a zesty lime twist. It’s perfect served over rice or noodles!
Every bite is a tropical vacation on your plate. I love how easy it is to whip up, making it a go-to for busy nights. Trust me, you’ll want to make this one again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean option, but thighs work great too! They are juicier and more flavorful. If you need a vegetarian option, try replacing the chicken with chickpeas or tofu.
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk gives the sauce its creaminess, but you can use light coconut milk if you prefer fewer calories. For a nut-free alternative, try using unsweetened almond milk with a bit of cornstarch for thickness.
Lime Juice and Zest: The fresh lime really brightens the dish. You can substitute with lemon juice if needed, but keep the zest for that extra zing. Orange juice can also work in a pinch, though it will change the flavor a bit.
Ginger: Fresh ginger gives the best flavor, but you can use ground ginger if you don’t have fresh on hand. Just reduce the amount to about 1/4 teaspoon as it’s more concentrated.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Chicken for This Dish?
Sautéing the chicken properly sets the stage for delicious flavors. Here’s how you can get it right:
- Use medium-high heat to get a good sear on the chicken. It helps lock in the moisture!
- Don’t crowd the pan. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to avoid steaming.
- Cook until the chicken is browned and no longer pink inside (about 6-8 minutes), stirring occasionally for even cooking.
This method ensures your chicken remains juicy and flavorful, making the sauce even more delightful!
How to Make Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (13.5 oz/400 ml) coconut milk (full fat for creaminess)
- Zest of 1 lime
- Juice of 1-2 limes (about 3 tablespoons)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or fish sauce (optional, for umami)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for balance)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger or 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy coconut lime chicken takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, making it a quick and satisfying option for dinner. In just approximately 30 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
First, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces. Cook them, stirring occasionally, until they are lightly browned and cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for about another minute until fragrant.
3. Make the Sauce:
Pour the coconut milk into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir the mixture well to combine. Next, add the lime zest, lime juice, soy or fish sauce (if using), and honey (if using). Stir everything together and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
4. Combine and Simmer:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken pieces in the sauce. Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Season and Serve:
Season the dish to taste with salt and black pepper. Once you’re happy with the flavor, garnish it with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve your creamy coconut lime chicken hot over a bed of steamed rice or noodles!
Enjoy this vibrant and creamy coconut lime chicken that’s full of fresh, bright flavors! It’s perfect for any night of the week!
FAQ for Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They are juicier and will infuse the dish with a deeper flavor, making it even more delicious!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’d like to add some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño when sautéing the onion and garlic. Adjust the amount to your heat preference!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce a day ahead. Store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the chicken and sauce together until warmed through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. Enjoy!
