Description
This creamy coconut lime chicken is a quick and effortless dish, combining the richness of coconut milk with the tangy zest of fresh lime. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s dairy-free, gluten-free, and packed with aromatic spices. Serve over rice, vegetables, or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add Lime and Seasoning: Stir in lime juice, red pepper flakes, and additional salt to taste.
- Simmer the Chicken: Return chicken to the skillet, covering with sauce. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until fully cooked and tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro and serve over rice, steamed vegetables, or noodles.
Notes
- Spicier Version: Add chopped chili peppers or more red pepper flakes.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas.
- Creamier Texture: Stir in Greek yogurt or cashew cream.
- Lighter Option: Use light coconut milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Keywords: creamy coconut lime chicken, easy coconut chicken recipe, dairy-free chicken recipe, skillet chicken with coconut milk, quick weeknight chicken recipes.