This Coconut Lime Chicken is a bright and tasty dish that brings tropical vibes to your dinner table. Juicy chicken is cooked with creamy coconut milk and a splash of zesty lime.
Trust me, the combination of flavors will make your taste buds dance! I love serving this with a side of rice to soak up all that delicious sauce—so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for a quick cook. If you prefer, thighs work too; they add a bit more flavor and moisture.
Coconut Milk: This is the base of the dish. Use full-fat coconut milk for creaminess. If you have dietary restrictions, you can swap it with almond milk, but the flavor will change.
Limes: Fresh lime juice and zest give brightness. If limes are hard to find, lemons are a good alternative, though they have a stronger flavor.
Fish Sauce: It adds depth with a salty kick. If you’re not keen on fish sauce or need a substitute, soy sauce works well, but start with less to adjust to taste.
Brown Sugar: This balances the dish. If you prefer to avoid sugar, honey or maple syrup can be a good alternative for sweetness.
How Do I Perfectly Sear Chicken Breasts?
Searing chicken gives it a nice golden crust and locks in moisture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Get the skillet hot over medium heat before adding oil and chicken.
- Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper.
- Add the chicken and don’t move it around too soon; let it form a crust, about 4-5 minutes on each side.
- Once golden brown, remove it from the skillet, and you’re ready for step two!
How to Make Coconut Lime Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Coconut Sauce:
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- Zest and juice of 2 limes
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
For Garnish:
- 1 red chili pepper, sliced
- Fresh cilantro leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Coconut Lime Chicken recipe will take you about 30-40 minutes to prepare. You’ll need around 10 minutes to get everything ready and then about 20-30 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Carefully add the chicken to the hot skillet. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Once done, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Preparing the Flavor Base:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté them for about 1 minute until they become fragrant. This step is crucial as it releases all those delicious flavors!
3. Making the Coconut Sauce:
Now it’s time to make the delicious sauce! Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, followed by the lime zest, lime juice, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Stir everything together well, making sure to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Those bits add great flavor!
4. Simmering the Chicken:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, ensuring they’re fully submerged in that yummy coconut sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will help the chicken absorb all those fantastic flavors.
5. Cooking Until Done:
Cover the skillet with a lid and let the chicken cook for 15-20 minutes. Make sure it cooks until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures your chicken is safe to eat and perfectly juicy!
6. Final Touches:
If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid and let it reduce for about 5 minutes. This step is optional, but it’ll intensify those flavors even more!
7. Serving It Up:
Serve your Coconut Lime Chicken hot, garnished with sliced red chili pepper and fresh cilantro leaves. It goes wonderfully with steamed rice or some crusty bread to soak up that lovely sauce. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces! Just note that the cooking time will be longer—about 30-35 minutes. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety. You may want to adjust the simmering time, checking regularly for doneness.
What If I Don’t Have Fish Sauce?
No problem! You can substitute fish sauce with soy sauce for a similar umami flavor. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, tamari is a great choice. Just keep in mind that soy sauce is saltier, so you might want to reduce the added salt in your dish.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover coconut lime chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, let it cool completely and then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stove or microwave.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli would work well. Add them to the skillet during the last 10 minutes of cooking to ensure they stay crisp and vibrant. Just make sure to adjust your cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through!
