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Juicy chicken breasts in a creamy coconut lime sauce, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime slices

Coconut Lime Chicken

Juicy chicken breasts simmered in a creamy coconut-lime sauce with garlic, spice, and tropical flair. A simple, satisfying weeknight dinner ready in under 30 minutes!

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 generous portions 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or coconut oil)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger (or 1 tablespoon fresh grated)
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
  • Juice and zest of 2 limes
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and ginger and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the coconut milk, lime juice, lime zest, soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it into the sauce. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C).
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions before serving.

Notes

Serve with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. Swap protein with shrimp or tofu, and add veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for variation.

  • Author: Clara
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Tropical

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 750mg
  • Fat: 36g
  • Saturated Fat: 22g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 115mg

Keywords: coconut lime chicken, weeknight dinner, creamy chicken, tropical chicken, one pan chicken