This Easy Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken is a tropical treat! Tender chicken cooked in a creamy coconut sauce with a zesty lime kick brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table.
You won’t believe how simple it is to make this dish—just cook the chicken, stir in the sauce, and enjoy! I love serving it over rice, so every bite is saucy and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Skinless, boneless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish due to their tenderness. If you prefer dark meat, boneless thighs work great too. They’ll add extra juiciness to the recipe!
Coconut Milk: I recommend using full-fat coconut milk for a rich and creamy texture. Light coconut milk can be used for a lower-fat option, but it won’t be as creamy. For a different flavor, try heavy cream or almond milk, though it will change the dish’s character.
Green Beans: Fresh green beans add a nice crunch and color. If you’re out of green beans, snap peas or broccoli florets make excellent substitutes!
Lime: Fresh lime juice is key for that zesty vibe! If you don’t have fresh limes, bottled lime juice can work in a pinch, but fresh is always better. You can also use lemon juice for a slightly different twist.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking the chicken just right can be tricky. Here are some tips to help you! Always start with room temperature chicken, and season it well. Use a medium-high heat to get that golden brown crust while ensuring it cooks through.
- Cook the chicken 5-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness. If the chicken is thicker, you might need a bit longer.
- Invest in a meat thermometer! It should reach at least 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This keeps the juices inside, making it more tender!
Easy Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup coconut milk (full fat for creaminess)
- Zest and juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional: coconut flakes for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to cook, making it a quick meal you can whip up in about 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This will help enhance the flavor during cooking.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive or coconut oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
Using the same skillet, add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Sauté this mixture for 2-3 minutes until the onion starts to soften and the garlic becomes fragrant. This will add a lovely flavor base to your sauce!
4. Cook the Green Beans:
Next, add the trimmed green beans to the skillet. Cook them for another 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and are slightly tender, but still crunchy.
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the coconut milk, along with the zest and juice of the lime. Stir everything together until well combined. This creamy sauce will be the heart of the dish!
6. Combine and Simmer:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, placing them in the sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the chicken to heat through and soak up the delicious flavors.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the dish and add the coconut flakes if you’re using them. Serve the creamy coconut lime chicken with lime wedges on the side, perfect over a bed of steamed rice or cauliflower rice to soak up all that yummy sauce.
Enjoy your deliciously creamy, tangy chicken dinner with vibrant green beans and a tropical coconut lime flavor! Yum!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken
Can I Substitute Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use boneless pork chops or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly—chicken typically takes longer to cook than tofu!
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
This recipe is already dairy-free, thanks to the use of coconut milk! Just be sure to check that your coconut milk doesn’t contain any added dairy products.
Is It Possible to Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time! You can marinate the chicken and chop the veggies, then store them in the fridge for up to a day. Just cook everything fresh when you’re ready to eat.
What Should I Do With Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of coconut milk if needed to refresh the sauce.
