Coconut Lime Chicken

This creamy, zesty, and delicious one-pan Coconut Lime Chicken cooks in just 30 minutes! Skinless and boneless chicken thighs are first pan-seared, then braised in a rich coconut milk sauce infused with fresh lime juice and zest. The result is a flavorful and aromatic dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Cooking: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single pan.
• Flavorful Sauce: A creamy coconut milk base with a tangy lime kick.
• Versatile: Pairs well with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables.

Ingredients

• 4 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• 1 can (400 ml) full-fat coconut milk
• Juice and zest of 1 lime
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Add Spices: Stir in the ground ginger, turmeric, cumin, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
5. Add Coconut Milk and Lime: Pour in the coconut milk, lime juice, and lime zest. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Return Chicken to Skillet: Place the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Serves 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Protein Swap: Replace chicken thighs with chicken breasts or shrimp for a different protein.
• Spice Level: Adjust the chili flakes to your preferred spice level or omit them for a milder dish.
• Vegetarian Option: Use tofu or a mix of vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini instead of chicken.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of chili flakes or add fresh chopped chilies to the sauce.

Can I use light coconut milk?

Yes, but the sauce will be less creamy.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as chicken breasts cook faster than thighs.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce for up to 2 months.

What can I serve this with?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and sear the chicken in advance, then combine and cook when ready to serve.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I use canned lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini can be added along with the chicken.

Conclusion

This One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken is a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its creamy coconut sauce and tangy lime notes, it’s sure to become a family favor

Coconut Lime Chicken

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• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Dinner, One-Pan Meals, Weeknight Meals
• Method: Pan-Seared and Braised
• Cuisine: Fusion, Tropical
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This One-Pan Coconut Lime Chicken is a quick and easy dinner recipe that delivers a burst of flavor. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are seared and simmered in a creamy coconut milk sauce, with the zesty addition of lime juice and zest. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for a delicious, versatile meal.

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Ingredients

• 4 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• 1 can (400 ml) full-fat coconut milk
• Juice and zest of 1 lime
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
4. Add Spices: Stir in ginger, turmeric, cumin, and chili flakes (if using). Toast the spices for about 1 minute.
5. Add Coconut Milk and Lime: Pour in coconut milk, lime juice, and lime zest. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Return Chicken to Skillet: Add the seared chicken back into the skillet. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened.
7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top before serving.

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Notes

• For extra flavor, you can adjust the chili flakes to your preferred spice level.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, tofu or vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can replace the chicken.