If you’re craving a burst of tropical flavors wrapped in rich, luscious creaminess, then this Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Picture tender, golden-seared chicken breasts soaking in a dreamy sauce that marries the sweetness of coconut milk with the zesty punch of fresh lime. It’s an irresistible blend that’s bright, comforting, and so satisfying — perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe embodies simplicity without sacrificing any bold, vibrant flavors that you’ll want to savor with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your ingredients together for this dish is a breeze. Each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of creamy texture, tropical zest, and savory depth, making the cooking process as enjoyable as the eating.
- 2 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender and lean, these form the hearty base of the dish.
- 1/4 cup all purpose flour: Adds a light coating that helps brown the chicken beautifully and thickens the sauce slightly.
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped: Brings a fresh, herby brightness that complements the lime perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil: Infuses a subtle coconut aroma and helps sear the chicken deliciously.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides extra richness and aids in perfect searing without burning.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Adds a punch of savory depth to the sauce and chicken.
- 1 cup coconut milk: The star of the sauce, lending creaminess and that unmistakable tropical flavor.
- 2/3 cup chicken broth: Lightens the sauce and enhances the chicken’s natural taste.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or coconut sugar): Balances the tangy lime with gentle sweetness.
- Juice of 2 limes, divided: Injects fresh citrus zing that wakes up each bite.
- Green onion, chopped: Adds color and a mild onion note for garnish.
- Extra cilantro, chopped: More herbal freshness to sprinkle on top at the end.
How to Make Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s perfectly ready to bake the chicken after searing. This step ensures the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy inside.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat and add the coconut oil and olive oil. In a small bowl, combine the flour and chopped cilantro; this mixture will coat the chicken, giving it a flavorful crust. Dredge each chicken breast, making sure both sides are evenly coated, then place them in the hot skillet. Sear for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they get a golden-brown crust. Just before finishing searing, add the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds to release its amazing aroma without burning.
Step 3: Prepare the Coconut Lime Sauce
While searing, blend together the coconut milk, chicken broth, brown sugar, and the juice of one lime in a bowl. This combination creates a sauce that is both creamy and tangy, perfectly complementing the tender chicken.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken in Sauce
Remove your skillet from heat and pour the coconut lime sauce evenly over the seared chicken breasts. Then move the skillet into the oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Baking in the sauce ensures the chicken stays moist and absorbs all those wonderful flavors.
Step 5: Finish & Garnish
Once baked, take the skillet out of the oven and immediately drizzle the juice of the remaining lime over the chicken to brighten the whole dish. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, then add the extra chopped cilantro and green onions on top for an inviting pop of color and freshness. Serve hot, and get ready for a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and herbaceous flavors in every bite.
How to Serve Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like chopped cilantro and green onions elevate this dish visually and add bursts of fresh flavor that contrast beautifully with the creamy sauce. You can also add a few lime wedges for an interactive citrus boost at the table.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light, fluffy jasmine or basmati rice to soak up every bit of that dreamy coconut lime sauce. For a low-carb option, steamed or roasted vegetables such as asparagus, green beans, or carrots offer great color and crunch without overpowering the main flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a wow factor, try serving the chicken atop a bed of coconut rice or alongside a vibrant mango salsa. You could also plate individual servings in small bowls with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes on top, adding texture and enhancing the tropical vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it perfect for next-day meals without losing its signature creaminess and zest.
Freezing
If you want to store it longer, freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag. It stays good for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the texture tender and flavors fresh.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat to prevent the sauce from separating. Stir occasionally and add a splash of chicken broth or coconut milk if the sauce thickens too much. You can also reheat in the microwave, but do so in short intervals and stir often for even warming.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs would add extra juiciness and richness to this Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe. Just adjust the baking time slightly, as thighs usually take a bit longer to cook through.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free since it uses coconut milk instead of cream. It’s perfect if you’re avoiding dairy but still want a creamy texture and rich flavor.
What can I substitute if I don’t have coconut oil?
If you don’t have coconut oil, olive oil alone works just fine for searing. Just be mindful to cook over medium heat to avoid burning since olive oil has a lower smoke point.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce before baking. Bake as usual, and it will thicken perfectly by the time the chicken is done.
Can this Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe be made in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately, then combine and bake just before serving. It’s a great way to save time and still enjoy fresh, vibrant flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe is a gem worth savoring again and again. It strikes the perfect harmony between bright citrus, smooth coconut, and expertly seasoned chicken that feels both comforting and exciting. I encourage you to try it the next time you want a meal that’s simple to prepare but impressive in taste. Once you do, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation too!
Print
Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American with Tropical Influence
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken recipe offers a delightful blend of tropical flavors with tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a cilantro-flour mixture, seared to golden perfection, then baked in a luscious coconut milk sauce infused with lime and brown sugar. Finished with fresh green onions and cilantro, this dish is quick, flavorful, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and 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 Fats
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2/3 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
- Juice of 2 limes, divided
Garnishes
- 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 together the flour and chopped cilantro. Dredge each chicken breast in this mixture, coating both sides thoroughly, then place them directly into the hot skillet. Sear the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until it turns golden brown. As the chicken finishes 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 the juice of 1 lime in a bowl. Stir well until all ingredients are blended into a smooth sauce.
- Bake the Chicken: Remove the skillet from the stovetop heat. Pour the prepared coconut milk mixture evenly over the chicken breasts. Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and tender.
- Finish & Garnish: Once baked, take the skillet out of the oven. Drizzle the juice of the remaining lime over the chicken breasts. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, then garnish with extra chopped cilantro and chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve the dish hot and enjoy the delicious combination of creamy coconut and zesty lime flavors.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- If coconut sugar is not available, regular brown sugar works perfectly as a substitute.
- This recipe is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and gently reheated.
- To make the dish gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
