There's nothing quite like the tropical aroma of Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken filling your kitchen. With its tender, juicy chicken bathed in a rich, creamy coconut sauce and brightened by the zing of fresh lime, this dish feels like a mini vacation on a plate.

I first stumbled upon this recipe when craving something fresh yet comforting. Inspired by flavors of the tropics, this meal is now a go-to in our household, particularly on nights when we crave something indulgent yet light. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and impressing guests.
Ready to find out why this Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken will become your new favorite? Let’s dive in.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken
Prepare to fall head over heels for this irresistible chicken dish. Here are a few reasons you’ll want to make it again and again:
First off, this recipe is bursting with flavor. The combination of creamy coconut milk, tangy lime, and a hint of garlic is an absolute showstopper. It's a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and citrusy that tantalizes the taste buds.
You'll also love how quick and effortless it is. From start to finish, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those busy nights when you need something on the table fast without sacrificing flavor.
Not only is it a one-pan wonder, which means fewer dishes and less cleanup, but it’s also family-friendly. Even picky eaters tend to enjoy the rich yet mild flavors, and you can easily adjust the heat level to suit everyone’s taste.
Best of all, it’s super versatile. You can serve it over rice, pasta, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. The sauce complements nearly everything and makes each meal feel extra special.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken comes from using fresh, high-quality ingredients that each contribute to the vibrant and comforting flavors of the dish.
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred here. They stay juicy and tender while cooking and soak up all the delicious sauce. However, you can use chicken breasts if that’s what you have on hand – just be mindful of cooking time so they don’t dry out.
- Coconut Milk: Use full-fat coconut milk for a luxuriously creamy sauce. Lite coconut milk will work in a pinch, but the sauce won’t be as rich or thick. Shake the can well before opening to combine the creamy and watery parts.
- Lime: Fresh lime juice and zest are non-negotiable for this recipe. The zest adds an extra punch of citrus flavor, while the juice brightens up the rich coconut milk. You’ll need about 2-3 limes to get a good amount of both.
- Garlic and Ginger: These two ingredients are the backbone of the flavor profile. Fresh garlic and ginger add a subtle heat and aromatic quality that elevate the dish. If you're short on time, jarred ginger and garlic can work, but fresh is always best.
- Brown Sugar: Just a pinch of brown sugar balances the tanginess of the lime and rounds out the coconut flavor. You can adjust this to taste or even omit it if you prefer a sugar-free option.
You'll also need a large skillet or sauté pan with a lid to make this dish. Trust me; this is one meal you’ll want to serve piping hot and straight from the pan.
How To Make This Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken

Cooking this dish is easier than you might think, and the result is truly spectacular. Let’s break it down step by step.
Start by seasoning your chicken. Generously sprinkle both sides of your chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika for some subtle warmth. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
Once the oil is shimmering, sear the chicken. Place the thighs in the pan, making sure not to crowd them. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust. Don’t worry about fully cooking the chicken at this point; it’ll finish cooking in the sauce. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
In the same pan, sauté your aromatics. Lower the heat to medium and add a bit more olive oil if needed. Toss in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn them, as this will make the dish taste bitter.
Next, deglaze the pan with lime juice. Squeeze in the juice of two limes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This not only adds flavor but also makes the sauce extra rich and delicious.
Pour in the coconut milk and add a pinch of brown sugar. Stir well to combine, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Return the chicken to the pan, along with any accumulated juices from the plate, and cover with a lid. Let everything cook together for about 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Finally, finish with lime zest and fresh cilantro. Give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve the chicken over rice or pasta, spooning plenty of that creamy, citrusy sauce on top.
Storage Options
Leftovers? No problem! This Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen, making it even more delicious the next day.
- Freezer: You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of coconut milk or water to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave it, though the sauce might separate slightly – just give it a good stir.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is a dream for customization. Here are some fun ways to make it your own:
- Protein Swap: Don’t eat chicken? This sauce pairs well with shrimp, salmon, or even tofu. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.
- Spice It Up: If you love heat, add sliced jalapeños or a teaspoon of red curry paste. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes will also do the trick.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: For a heartier dish, throw in some sliced bell peppers, baby spinach, or snap peas. They’ll add color, crunch, and extra nutrition.
- Herb Substitutes: If you’re not a cilantro fan, swap it out for fresh basil or parsley. The sauce will still be fresh and flavorful.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve this over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to keep things light and low-carb. The creamy sauce still delivers major flavor.
Don’t be afraid to get creative and tailor this dish to your taste. Enjoy your tropical culinary escape!
PrintCreamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe
Indulge in the delicious flavors of this Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken recipe, where tender chicken breasts are smothered in a rich, creamy coconut sauce infused with zesty lime. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner, this dish will become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- Zest and juice of 2 limes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the coconut milk, lime zest, and lime juice. Stir well to combine.
- Add honey and soy sauce, adjusting to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, reducing slightly.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over it. Simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over rice or with vegetables.
Notes
- You can add red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer longer to reduce to your desired consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
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