Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe
If you are craving a dish that feels like a tropical vacation in every bite, you absolutely have to try this Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe. It’s a harmonious blend of tender chicken bathed in a luscious coconut milk sauce, brightened up with the zesty punch of fresh lime and fragrant cilantro. The combination of creamy textures with citrusy freshness will have you coming back for seconds, making it a perfect dinner to impress family or friends on any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet vital in creating the vibrant flair of this dish. Each element brings something unique—whether it’s the tender juiciness of the chicken, the richness of coconut milk, or the zing of fresh lime, all working together to build layers of flavor and irresistible aromas.
- 2 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, delivering juicy, tender bites.
- 1/4 cup all purpose flour: Helps create a subtle crust and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note that pops against the creamy sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil: Infuses a subtle sweetness and a hint of tropical aroma.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Boosts the searing process for a golden, flavorful crust.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Offers a savory depth and pungency that wakes up the palate.
- 1 cup coconut milk: The creamy base that makes the sauce luxuriously smooth.
- 2/3 cup chicken broth: Adds savory richness and balances the sauce’s texture.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or coconut sugar): Gives a lightly sweet counterpoint to the tangy lime.
- Juice of 2 limes, divided: Brightens the entire dish with a refreshing, citrus kick.
- Green onion, chopped: Provides a crisp, mild onion flavor and a splash of color at the end.
- Extra cilantro, chopped: For garnishing, to amplify that fresh herbal aroma and vibrant green hue.
How to Make Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This perfect baking temperature ensures that the chicken finishes cooking evenly and stays juicy without drying out.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat your large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat and add the coconut oil along with the olive oil. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with the chopped cilantro—this simple coating adds flavor and gives the chicken a wonderful crust. Dredge each chicken breast in the mixture, making sure both sides are evenly covered. Place them in the hot skillet and sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. Just before finishing, toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it releases its lovely aroma. This step is crucial—it seals in the moisture and layers in complexity.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
While the chicken is sizzling, whisk together the coconut milk, chicken broth, brown sugar, and the juice from one of the limes in a bowl. This quick mixture will become your creamy, tangy sauce that perfectly compliments the chicken with sweet and citrus notes melding together.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
After searing, remove the skillet from the heat and carefully pour the coconut milk sauce over the chicken breasts, coating them nicely. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes. You’re looking for the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it’s juicy and fully cooked through but still tender.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
Once your chicken is baked to perfection, take the skillet out of the oven. Drizzle the juice of the remaining lime over the dish to add a fresh burst of brightness. Finally, sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper, the extra chopped cilantro, and freshly chopped green onions for a vibrant, fresh finish. Serve immediately so you can enjoy that creamy, zesty sauce at its best.
How to Serve Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
The fresh cilantro and sliced green onion not only bring a burst of color but also a lovely herbal and mild pungency that contrasts beautifully with the creamy coconut sauce. Consider adding a few extra lime wedges on the side for guests who love an extra tangy kick.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with light, fluffy jasmine rice or coconut rice to soak up the sauce. For a low-carb option, steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas add a crunchy texture and fresh green notes, balancing out the richness of the chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to turn this dinner into a showstopper, serve the chicken on a bed of vibrant mango salsa or alongside roasted sweet potatoes for a hint of natural sweetness. Garnish with edible flowers or extra cilantro sprigs for that restaurant-quality wow factor at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the chicken cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen, so reheated Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe tastes just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but to preserve texture and flavor, freeze the chicken and sauce separately if possible. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, and consume within 2 to 3 months for the best taste.
Reheating
To reheat, slowly warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or coconut milk to revive the creamy sauce if it has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and stay juicy. Just make sure to adjust cooking time accordingly since thighs can take a little longer to cook through.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour or cornstarch blend. It will still create that lovely crust and thicken the sauce perfectly.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free thanks to the use of coconut milk instead of cream or butter. It’s a great option for those avoiding dairy but craving creamy comfort food.
What if I don’t have fresh lime?
Fresh lime juice is key for that bright, zesty flavor. If you don’t have fresh limes, bottled lime juice can work, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant. Consider adding a splash of fresh lemon juice if you have that on hand as a backup.
How spicy is this dish? Can I add heat?
This recipe is mild and balanced, making it perfect for any palate. If you like heat, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some finely chopped fresh chili when you add the garlic. It pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels like a mini escape to paradise right from your kitchen. The balance between fluffy chicken, rich coconut, and tangy lime is irresistible and satisfying. I encourage you to try making it soon—you’ll discover just how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary that everyone will love!
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Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts seared to golden perfection and baked in a luscious coconut milk sauce infused with lime juice, garlic, and cilantro. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish offers a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that’s both simple and delicious.
Ingredients
Chicken & Coating
- 2 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 4 chicken breasts)
- 1/4 cup all purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Oils & Aromatics
- 2 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Sauce
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2/3 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
- Juice of 2 limes, divided
Garnish
- Green onion, chopped
- Extra cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare it for baking the chicken.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the coconut oil and olive oil. In a small bowl, mix the flour and chopped cilantro together. Dredge each chicken breast in the mixture, coating both sides thoroughly, then place directly into the hot skillet. Sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. When the chicken is almost done searing, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken is searing, combine the coconut milk, chicken broth, brown sugar, and juice of 1 lime in a bowl. Stir until well blended to create a creamy, tangy sauce.
- Bake the Chicken: Remove the skillet from the heat and pour the coconut milk mixture evenly over the seared chicken breasts. Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Finish & Garnish: Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven. Drizzle the juice of the remaining lime over the chicken. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, extra chopped cilantro, and green onion to add freshness and brightness. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful, creamy coconut lime chicken!
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier option; adjust baking time accordingly.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when preparing the sauce.
- Use coconut sugar as a natural sweetener alternative to brown sugar.
- Make sure to use an oven-safe skillet to avoid transferring chicken to another dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Fusion, American with tropical influences
