There's nothing quite like the tangy, tropical flavors of Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken filling your kitchen with warmth and aroma. This delightful dish pairs tender chicken with a luscious coconut milk sauce, infused with zesty lime and aromatic spices for a meal that feels both indulgent and fresh.
I first created this recipe on a whim, inspired by a few pantry staples and a lime tree in my backyard. It’s become one of my go-to weeknight dinners, easy to make yet fancy enough to impress guests. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe a must-try.
Why You'll Love This Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken
Get ready to discover your new favorite way to enjoy chicken! Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken is not only incredibly flavorful but also simple to make, making it perfect for any night of the week.
First, it’s packed with bold and bright flavors. The creamy coconut milk perfectly balances the tartness of the lime, while garlic and ginger add warmth and depth. It’s a flavor profile that’ll keep you coming back for more.
You’ll love how quick it is to prepare. With just a handful of steps and under 40 minutes from start to finish, this dish is a lifesaver on busy nights when you need dinner on the table fast.
It’s a one-pan wonder! Fewer dishes mean less cleanup, so you can enjoy your meal without worrying about a sink full of pots and pans.
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Serve it over rice, noodles, or with a side of roasted vegetables to create a meal tailored to your preferences.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to make this dish shine.
Chicken thighs are the star of this recipe. Their natural juiciness and richness work wonderfully with the creamy sauce. If you prefer a leaner option, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used, but take care not to overcook them.
Coconut milk forms the base of the sauce, providing its signature creamy texture. Go for full-fat coconut milk to achieve the richest, most luxurious sauce, but light coconut milk can be used for a lighter version.
Fresh lime juice and zest are essential for that tangy kick. Be sure to use fresh limes for the best flavor. Bottled lime juice just doesn’t have the same vibrancy.
Garlic and ginger add aromatic depth. Freshly minced garlic and grated ginger are ideal, but powdered versions can work in a pinch.
Soy sauce and a touch of honey round out the sauce, creating a perfect balance of salty and sweet. Adjust these to your taste preferences for a sauce that’s uniquely yours.
If you have a good-quality skillet or sauté pan, you’re all set to make this dish. A wooden spoon for stirring and a zester for the lime will also come in handy.
How To Make This Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken

Making Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken is as easy as it is delicious. Follow these steps for a foolproof result every time.
Start by seasoning your chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side, then set aside. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage – it’ll finish cooking in the sauce.
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for a minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn them.
Pour in the coconut milk, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the lime zest, lime juice, soy sauce, and a drizzle of honey. Stir until the sauce is smooth and begins to simmer.
Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, turning the chicken halfway through. The chicken should be tender, and the sauce slightly thickened.
Before serving, give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. A pinch of salt or an extra squeeze of lime juice can make all the difference. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and added freshness.
Storage Options
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this recipe stores beautifully for later enjoyment.
Transfer cooled chicken and sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as they sit, making leftovers even more delicious.
To freeze, place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container, leaving a little room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
When reheating, do so gently over low heat to prevent the coconut milk from separating. Add a splash of water or broth to the sauce if it’s too thick.
Variations and Substitutions
This dish is endlessly adaptable to suit your tastes and dietary needs.
For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for tofu or hearty vegetables like cauliflower or sweet potatoes. The sauce pairs wonderfully with both.
Spice lovers can add a dash of red chili flakes or a spoonful of Thai curry paste for an extra kick.
Prefer a sweeter note? Increase the honey slightly, or add a handful of diced pineapple to the sauce for a tropical twist.
If soy sauce isn’t your thing, try using tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative.
Experiment with herbs and spices to make this recipe your own. Basil, mint, or even a hint of cumin can take the flavors in exciting new directions.
Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken is a dish you’ll return to time and time again. Its vibrant flavors, easy preparation, and versatility make it a true kitchen staple. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress!
PrintCreamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe
Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken is a flavorful dish combining tender chicken, creamy coconut milk, and tangy lime for a perfect balance of savory and zesty. Great for family dinners or meal prep, this one-pan recipe is quick, easy, and delicious.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lime (juice and zest)
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and ginger.
- Sear chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in coconut milk, lime juice, and lime zest, stirring to combine.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Serve over rice or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
- For extra heat, add red chili flakes to the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
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