Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe: A Creamy, Zesty Delight for Every Meal

If you’re craving a dish that’s both tropical and savoury, look no further than coconut lime chicken. This flavour packed recipe combines the creaminess of coconut milk with the bright acidity of lime and tender, juicy chicken. It’s a crowd pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

🥥 What Is Coconut Lime Chicken?

Coconut lime chicken is a dish that features chicken breasts or thighs simmered in a rich sauce made with coconut milk, fresh lime juice, garlic, and aromatic spices. The combination of creamy and tangy elements creates a bold flavour profile that’s both comforting and refreshing. Inspired by Thai and Caribbean flavours, this dish has gained popularity worldwide for its simple preparation and exotic taste.

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of the essential ingredients to bring this dish to life:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for a juicier cut)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ tsp paprika (optional for colour)
• ½ tsp ground cumin

For the Coconut Lime Sauce:

• 1 can (400ml) full-fat coconut milk
• Juice of 2 limes (plus zest from one lime)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated (or 1 tsp ground ginger)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• ½ tsp chilli flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
• Fresh coriander (cilantro), chopped – for garnish

🍳 How to Make Coconut Lime Chicken

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

1. Season the chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and mostly cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and add garlic and ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in the coconut milk, lime juice, lime zest, soy sauce, and honey. Stir well to combine.
3. Let the sauce simmer for 3–5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and the flavours to blend.

Step 3: Simmer Chicken in Sauce

1. Return the chicken to the pan and coat it in the sauce.
2. Simmer gently for another 8–10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning add more lime juice for tang or honey for sweetness if desired.

🍚 What to Serve With Coconut Lime Chicken

This versatile dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

• Jasmine or Basmati Rice: To soak up the luscious sauce.
• Coconut Rice: For a double coconut hit.
• Quinoa or Couscous: For a lighter, nutty option.
• Steamed Vegetables: Such as broccoli, green beans, or sugar snap peas.
• Flatbread or Roti: Great for dipping into the creamy sauce.

🧑‍🍳 Tips for Perfect Coconut Lime Chicken

• Use full-fat coconut milk: It gives the sauce a richer, creamier consistency.
• Don’t skip the lime zest: It enhances the lime flavour dramatically.
• Marinate the chicken (optional): For deeper flavour, marinate the chicken in lime juice, garlic, and a splash of coconut milk for 30 minutes beforehand.
• Make it spicy: Add fresh chilli or increase chilli flakes for a bit of a kick.

❄️ Storage and Reheating

Coconut lime chicken stores well, making it ideal for meal prep:

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the chicken and sauce for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight.
• Reheat: Gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or coconut milk if the sauce thickens too much.

🥗 Coconut Lime Chicken Variations

• With Veggies: Add bell peppers, baby spinach, or mushrooms for a more substantial meal.
• Make It Vegan: Replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas and swap honey for maple syrup.
• Grilled Version: Grill marinated chicken and serve with a side of the coconut lime sauce for dipping.

🇬🇧 UK Ingredient Notes

• Coconut milk and fresh limes are widely available in UK supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and ASDA.
• You can use pre-minced garlic and ginger paste if you’re short on time.
• Fresh coriander is usually sold in bunches—use the leaves for garnish and save the stems for curries or soups.

🌿 Health Benefits of Coconut Lime Chicken

• High in protein: From the chicken, which helps build and repair tissues.
• Healthy fats: Coconut milk provides medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which may support metabolism.
• Vitamin C: Limes are a great source of immune-boosting vitamin C.
• Low-carb friendly: Ideal for those following keto or paleo diets, especially when served with cauliflower rice.

Final Thoughts

Coconut lime chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a taste of the tropics in every bite. With its balance of creamy coconut and zesty lime, it’s a refreshing change from everyday chicken dishes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to satisfy.