Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe

A Flavorful and Comforting Dish

Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken is a rich and zesty dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a velvety coconut milk sauce infused with lime juice, garlic, and aromatic spices. This dish strikes the perfect balance between creamy and tangy flavors, making it a delightful meal to enjoy any day of the week. Whether served over rice, quinoa, or with a side of vegetables, it’s a satisfying dinner that comes together quickly and easily.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Burst of Flavor – The combination of coconut milk and lime creates a creamy yet citrusy sauce that enhances the chicken.
• Easy to Make – Requires minimal prep time and simple ingredients.
• Dairy-Free Option – Since coconut milk is naturally dairy-free, this recipe is great for those with dairy sensitivities.
• Versatile – Pair it with rice, pasta, or vegetables to create a complete meal.

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Ingredients

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup canned coconut milk (full-fat for a richer sauce)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• Juice and zest of 1 lime
• 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup for a natural sweetener)
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for added spice)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise if they are large, creating thinner pieces for even cooking.
• Season both sides with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

2. Sear the Chicken

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
• Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

3. Make the Coconut Lime Sauce

• In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
• Add lime juice, lime zest, honey, and soy sauce, mixing well.
• If a thicker sauce is desired, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce.

4. Simmer and Combine

• Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
• Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce.
• Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the chicken is warmed through.

5. Serve and Garnish

• Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and red pepper flakes if desired.
• Serve hot with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap – Try this recipe with shrimp, tofu, or salmon instead of chicken.
• Make it Spicier – Add diced jalapeños or increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
• Creamier Sauce – Use a mix of coconut cream and coconut milk for an even richer texture.
• Vegetable Addition – Stir in bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition.

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Serving Size and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing – Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating – Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of coconut milk if needed to maintain creaminess.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish lower in calories?

To reduce calories, use lite coconut milk and reduce the amount of oil used for cooking.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness to the dish.

What should I serve with Coconut Lime Chicken?

This dish pairs well with jasmine rice, brown rice, cauliflower rice, or sautéed greens.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Store them separately and combine when reheating.

How do I thicken the sauce without cornstarch?

You can simmer the sauce longer to reduce it naturally, or use arrowroot powder as a cornstarch alternative.

Does this recipe work in a slow cooker?

Yes, add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.

Can I use fresh coconut milk instead of canned?

Fresh coconut milk can be used, but the sauce may be thinner since it has less fat than canned.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Make sure to use full-fat coconut milk and avoid boiling the sauce at high heat.

What can I use instead of lime juice?

Lemon juice can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use coconut aminos or gluten-free soy sauce, this recipe is completely gluten-free.

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Conclusion

Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken is a deliciously comforting dish with a perfect blend of creamy coconut milk, zesty lime, and savory spices. It’s quick to prepare, versatile, and packed with flavor, making it a great addition to your dinner rotation. Try it with different proteins or vegetables to suit your taste, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home!

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