Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken

Baked Coconut Lime Chicken is a delightful dish that brings tropical flavors to your table in just 30 minutes. This Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests at a dinner party. The combination of tender chicken and a rich coconut milk sauce, brightened with lime juice, makes it a standout meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, this dish fits into any busy schedule.
  • One-Skillet Wonder: Minimal cleanup is needed since everything cooks in one skillet, making it a hassle-free cooking experience.
  • Flavor Explosion: The creamy coconut milk and zesty lime create a rich and refreshing flavor that’s sure to please everyone.
  • Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe can be paired with rice, quinoa, or vegetables.
  • Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and flavor while being low in carbohydrates, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal plan.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother. Here are some essentials that will help you create the perfect Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

  • Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven: Ideal for pan-searing the chicken and then moving directly to the oven for baking.
  • Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients like flour, cilantro, and the coconut milk mixture without spilling.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate measurements of ingredients for consistent results every time.
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Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 2 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 4 total chicken breasts)
  • 1/4 cup all purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped, plus more for topping)
  • 2 tbsp coconut oil
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove (minced)

For the Sauce

  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 2/3 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar (or sub coconut sugar)
  • 2 limes

For Garnish

  • 1 green onion (chopped, for garnish)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken bakes evenly once placed in the oven.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

  • Heat a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  • Add both coconut oil and olive oil to the skillet.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and chopped cilantro. Dip each chicken breast into this mixture until fully coated.
  • Place the coated chicken breasts into the hot skillet. Pan-sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they become slightly browned.
  • When the chicken is nearly done searing, add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

While your chicken is searing,
* In a separate bowl, mix together coconut milk, chicken broth, brown sugar, and juice from one lime. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Once seared, remove the skillet from heat.
Pour the prepared coconut milk mixture over the chicken in the skillet.

Step 5: Bake in Oven

Transfer the skillet into your preheated oven. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Finish with Garnish

After baking,
Remove from oven and drizzle with juice from another lime. Finally, sprinkle salt, pepper, extra chopped cilantro, and green onions on top before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy Coconut Lime Chicken!

How to Serve Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken

Serving Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken can elevate your dining experience and impress your guests. This dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with various sides, garnishes, and accompaniments.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

  • Cilantro: Sprinkle extra chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
  • Green Onions: Add chopped green onions for a mild onion flavor and vibrant color.

Accompany with Rice

  • Jasmine Rice: Serve the chicken over fluffy jasmine rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
  • Coconut Rice: For a tropical touch, prepare coconut rice by cooking the rice with coconut milk.

Add a Zesty Salad

  • Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with lime dressing complements the creamy flavors.
  • Mango Salsa: Sweet mango salsa adds a fruity contrast that brightens the dish.

Pair with Flatbreads

  • Naan Bread: Soft naan is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
  • Pita Bread: Warm pita bread makes an excellent side for scooping up chicken and sauce.

How to Perfect Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken

To achieve the best results when making Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken, consider these essential tips.

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh limes and herbs enhance flavor significantly compared to dried options.
  • Monitor Cooking Time: Ensure you do not overcook the chicken; an internal temperature of 165° is ideal for juiciness.
  • Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or lime juice to your preference.
  • Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking to retain juices before slicing.
  • Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices like cumin or paprika for an extra layer of flavor in your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken

Complementing your Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken with the right sides can transform your meal into a full feast. Here are some fantastic options:

  1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients; steam lightly to retain crunch.
  2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with vegetables provides protein and texture alongside the chicken.
  3. Roasted Asparagus: Oven-roasted asparagus tossed in olive oil brings savory flavors that balance well with coconut.
  4. Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy sweet potato mash offers natural sweetness that pairs nicely with lime flavors.
  5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn served warm adds a smoky element that complements the dish beautifully.
  6. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice absorbs flavors while adding a unique texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

  • Skipping the searing step: Searing the chicken adds flavor and helps lock in moisture. Don’t skip this crucial step; it enhances the overall taste.
  • Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken beyond 165°F can lead to dryness. Keep an eye on the internal temperature to ensure a juicy result.
  • Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can alter the dish’s balance. Always measure carefully, especially with liquids.
  • Ignoring the garnish: A sprinkle of cilantro and green onions adds freshness and visual appeal. Don’t underestimate the impact of garnishing your dish.
  • Using old coconut milk: Spoiled coconut milk can ruin your sauce. Check expiration dates and use fresh coconut milk for the best flavor.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken in an airtight container.
  • It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken

  • Portion out leftovers into freezer-safe containers.
  • You can freeze it for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken

  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
  • Microwave: Use medium power and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
  • Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken.

What can I serve with Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken?

You can serve it with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! This recipe is already dairy-free since it uses coconut milk instead of cream or milk.

How spicy is Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken?

This recipe is not spicy at all. You can add chili flakes if you prefer some heat!

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This creamy sauce works well with turkey or even firm tofu as a vegetarian option.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken is a delightful weeknight meal that’s both quick and satisfying. Its creamy texture combined with zesty lime makes it versatile for various sides. Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas to enhance its nutrition and flavor profile. Give this tasty dish a try!

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Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken

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Enjoy a quick and delicious Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken made in under 30 minutes. Try this easy recipe tonight for a flavorful dinner!

  • Author: Virginia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Tropical

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup all purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped, plus more for topping)
  • 2 tbsp coconut oil
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove (minced)
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 2/3 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar (or sub coconut sugar)
  • 2 limes
  • 1 green onion (chopped, for garnish)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Heat coconut oil and olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
  3. Coat chicken breasts in a mixture of flour and chopped cilantro, then sear on each side for 3-4 minutes until lightly browned.
  4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
  5. Combine coconut milk, chicken broth, brown sugar, and lime juice in a bowl; pour over the chicken.
  6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  7. Drizzle with lime juice and garnish with cilantro and green onions before serving.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 16g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

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