Description
This One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken is the perfect balance of creamy, zesty, and slightly spicy flavors! Juicy, golden-browned chicken thighs are simmered in a rich coconut milk sauce infused with lime, ginger, and garlic. A quick, 30-minute dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights! Serve over rice for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil (or neutral cooking oil)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha sauce (or more, to taste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- ¼ cup coconut cream
For Garnish:
- ¼ cup chopped spring onions (scallions)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves
- ¼ cup chopped peanuts
- Fresh red chili slices or red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Chicken:
- Trim excess fat from the chicken thighs and pat dry.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
- Lightly dust with all-purpose flour, shaking off excess.
2️⃣ Sear the Chicken:
- Heat coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove and set aside.
3️⃣ Deglaze the Pan:
- Reduce heat to medium and pour in lime juice, scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to lift browned bits.
4️⃣ Sauté Aromatics:
- Add garlic, ginger, and jalapeño, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in shallots and cook for 2 minutes until soft.
5️⃣ Build the Sauce:
- Mix in tomato paste, Sriracha, and soy sauce, stirring well.
- Pour in coconut milk and coconut cream, stirring until smooth.
6️⃣ Simmer with Chicken:
- Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce.
- Sprinkle in lime zest. Cover and simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes until fully cooked.
7️⃣ Garnish & Serve:
- Sprinkle with chopped scallions, cilantro, and peanuts.
- Add fresh red chili slices or red pepper flakes for extra spice.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or your favorite side.
Notes
- For Extra Tang: Add a splash of rice vinegar or extra lime juice before serving.
- For More Heat: Add extra jalapeño or Sriracha to taste.
- Make It Creamier: Add extra coconut cream for a thicker sauce.
