Description
Culinary magic happens when zesty lime meets creamy coconut in this irresistible Coconut Lime Chicken recipe. Tropical flavors dance together, creating a light, refreshing meal that transports you to a sun-drenched paradise with each delicious bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Seasonings and Aromatics:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Liquid and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup coconut milk (240 milliliters)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (60 milliliters)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (30 milliliters)
- Zest of 1 lime
Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare chicken breasts by thoroughly seasoning both sides with salt and pepper, ensuring even coverage for maximum flavor infusion.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Carefully place seasoned chicken breasts into hot skillet, allowing each side to develop a golden-brown crust for 5-6 minutes, ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Transfer cooked chicken to a separate plate, maintaining its temperature and juiciness.
- In the same skillet, quickly sauté minced garlic and red pepper flakes for 30-45 seconds, releasing their aromatic essence without burning.
- Pour coconut milk, chicken broth, freshly squeezed lime juice, and grated lime zest into the skillet, stirring to combine and create a vibrant, creamy sauce.
- Gently return chicken to the simmering sauce, coating each piece thoroughly and allowing flavors to meld together over low heat for 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, creating a bright, herbaceous finish.
- Serve immediately alongside jasmine rice or a crisp salad, drizzling extra sauce over the chicken for enhanced flavor profile.
Notes
- Use low-sodium broth to control salt intake and create a lighter version of the dish.
- Swap chicken breasts with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian alternative that absorbs the coconut lime sauce beautifully.
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in moisture and flavor.
- Allow chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to redistribute juices and prevent dryness, resulting in tender meat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg