There is something truly special about a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, and that is exactly what this Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe delivers. With tender chicken breasts bathed in a luscious sauce made from rich coconut milk and zesty lime juice, every bite bursts with vibrant, tropical flavors that effortlessly balance creaminess with a bright citrus kick. This recipe blends simple, fresh ingredients to create a comforting meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both indulgent and refreshing, this Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe will quickly become a beloved favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly straightforward yet come together to create a harmony of flavor, texture, and aroma in the dish. Each component plays an essential role, from the creamy coconut milk lending richness to the fresh cilantro adding color and a hint of herbal brightness.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts, 2 lb: The star protein, perfect for soaking up the sauce while staying tender and juicy.
- All-purpose flour, 1/4 cup: Helps create a delicate crust on the chicken that locks in moisture and adds a slight crispness.
- Cilantro, 1/4 cup chopped: Adds a fresh, grassy note to the flour coating boosting the flavor from the very start.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that bring out all the other flavors in the dish.
- Coconut oil, 2 tablespoons: Provides a subtle tropical aroma and is perfect for searing the chicken.
- Olive oil, 1 tablespoon: Boosts the searing process and adds a heart-healthy fat layer.
- Garlic clove, minced: Introduces a punch of savory depth, perfectly complementing the creaminess of the sauce.
- Coconut milk, 1 cup: The cream base that creates the luscious sauce.
- Chicken broth, 2/3 cup: Adds savory richness and balances the coconut’s sweetness.
- Brown sugar or coconut sugar, 1 tablespoon: A touch of sweetness that rounds out the tangy lime.
- Juice of 2 limes: Brings brightness and acidity that cuts through the creaminess beautifully.
- Green onion, chopped: For a final sprinkle of mild sharpness and fresh color when serving.
- Extra cilantro, chopped: Garnishes the finished dish, adding vibrant color and herbal freshness.
How to Make Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). Having the oven ready early ensures you can transition from stovetop cooking to baking smoothly without a pause. This step is crucial because baking finishes cooking the chicken gently, helping it stay moist and tender.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, adding both the coconut oil and olive oil. In a small bowl, mix the flour with the chopped cilantro—this simple flour mix is what creates a flavorful crust on the chicken. Dredge each chicken breast in the mixture, coating both sides, and place them into the hot skillet. Sear for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until each piece is golden brown. Just before finishing, add the minced garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds to release its aroma while perfectly infusing the chicken.
Step 3: Prepare the Coconut Lime Sauce
While the chicken is searing, grab a bowl and whisk together the coconut milk, chicken broth, brown sugar, and juice from one lime. This creamy, tangy sauce base brings together sweet, savory, and citrus notes that will mellow and enrich during baking, creating a delightful contrast with the crispy chicken crust.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Remove the skillet from the heat and pour the coconut milk mixture evenly over the seared chicken breasts. Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes. This slow finish allows the chicken to absorb the sauce’s flavors and ensures it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), perfect for juicy, safe-to-eat chicken.
Step 5: Final Touches and Serve
Once baked, take the skillet out of the oven and immediately drizzle the juice from the remaining lime over the chicken. This final lime hit brightens everything up. Then lightly sprinkle salt, pepper, extra cilantro, and chopped green onions for a fresh and colorful finish. Serve hot and watch everyone’s faces light up with that first flavorful bite!
How to Serve Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like extra chopped cilantro and vibrant green onions are essential garnishes—they add fresh color and a hint of brightness that contrasts against the creamy sauce perfectly. A few lime wedges on the side invite extra citrus love from your guests.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs wonderfully with fluffy jasmine rice or coconut rice, which soaks up every bit of the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad offer refreshing texture that balances the richness of the chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the chicken over a bed of fragrant rice in shallow bowls, then sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes for a nutty crunch. Or present it family-style in the skillet straight from the oven on a rustic wooden board for a cozy, inviting vibe that’s perfect for casual dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover creamy coconut lime chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the sauce and chicken together helps the flavors meld even more, making the next day’s meal just as delicious.
Freezing
If you want to make this dish ahead on a busy day, freezing is a smart move. Place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at medium power to avoid drying out the chicken. Stir the sauce occasionally to keep it creamy and smooth. A splash of extra coconut milk can help refresh the sauce’s texture if needed.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work beautifully in this recipe and bring a slightly richer flavor and more juiciness, making the creamy coconut lime sauce even more delightful.
Is this recipe spicy?
This Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe is naturally mild and creamy with bright citrus notes. You can add chili flakes or fresh jalapeños if you want a spicy kick, but it’s delicious as is for those who prefer gentle flavors.
What can I substitute for coconut oil?
If you don’t have coconut oil on hand, you can use extra olive oil or avocado oil to sear the chicken. These oils provide a neutral base that won’t overpower the dish’s delicate flavors.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally dairy-free because it uses coconut milk instead of cream or milk. It’s perfect if you’re avoiding dairy but still want a creamy, indulgent meal.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer, which should read 165°F (74°C). The chicken should also be firm to the touch and the juices running clear.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll find yourself making again and again because it hits all the right notes: comfort, brightness, and a little touch of tropical flair that feels like a mini vacation on your plate. I encourage you to give it a try, invite some loved ones, and watch how quickly this crowd-pleaser becomes a cherished staple at your table.
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: Fusion (Tropical/Caribbean Inspired)
Description
A flavorful and creamy coconut lime chicken recipe featuring tender seared chicken breasts baked in a rich coconut milk and lime sauce, garnished with fresh cilantro and green onions. This dish offers a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and aromatic flavors, ideal for a quick and delicious 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 and Aromatics
- 2 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Sauce
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2/3 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
- Juice of 2 limes, divided
Garnish
- Green onion, chopped
- Extra cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare it for baking the chicken, ensuring a hot environment to finish cooking the meat properly.
- Sear 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, mix the flour and chopped cilantro. Dredge each chicken breast in this mixture, coating both sides, and place into the skillet. Sear each side for 3–4 minutes until golden brown. Add minced garlic during the last 30 seconds and cook until fragrant.
- Prepare Sauce: While the chicken is searing, combine coconut milk, chicken broth, brown sugar, and juice of one lime in a bowl; mix well until the sugar is dissolved and liquids are blended.
- Bake Chicken: Remove skillet from heat and pour the coconut milk mixture evenly over the seared chicken breasts. Transfer the skillet into the preheated oven and bake for 10–15 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is thoroughly cooked and tender.
- Finish and Garnish: After baking, remove the skillet from the oven and drizzle the juice of the remaining lime over the chicken. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, extra chopped cilantro, and green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, creamy flavors.
Notes
- Be sure to use an oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven for the searing and baking steps to avoid transferring the chicken to another dish.
- You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar for a slightly different sweetness profile.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Fresh lime juice at the end brightens the dish and balances the richness of the coconut milk.
- Serve with rice or a fresh salad to complement the creamy sauce.
