This creamy coconut lime chicken is a tasty dish that combines juicy chicken with the refreshing flavors of coconut and lime. It’s a quick meal that’s sure to impress!
I love how easy it is to make this dish. Just simmer the chicken in the creamy sauce and serve it over rice for a delightful dinner. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe because they cook quickly. If you want to try something different, chicken thighs work great too and tend to be juicier.
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk gives a rich creaminess to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, light coconut milk can be used, but the sauce may be less creamy. Also, almond or soy milk can be substitutes, though the flavor will change.
Lime Juice and Zest: Fresh lime juice brightens the dish. While you can use bottled lime juice in a pinch, fresh lime offers the best flavor. Don’t skip the zest; it adds a punch of citrus without extra liquid!
Green Beans: Fresh green beans add color and crunch but feel free to swap with broccoli, snap peas, or other veggies you have on hand. Frozen green beans can also work if you’re short on fresh ingredients.
Cilantro: I love fresh cilantro for its unique flavor, but if you’re not a fan, parsley or even green onions can be great substitutes.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken breasts can be tricky, but it’s easy with the right techniques. You want juicy chicken, not dry! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with even thickness by pounding the chicken lightly; this helps them cook evenly.
- Season well with salt and pepper before cooking. It enhances flavor, so don’t skip this step!
- Cook over medium-high heat but don’t rush it. Four to five minutes on each side should be enough until they’re golden before finishing in the sauce.
- Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Taking these steps will help you achieve tender, flavorful chicken every time. Happy cooking!
Easy Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
- 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk (full fat for creaminess)
- 1 tbsp lime zest (about 1 lime)
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1-2 limes)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, yet special enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously on both sides with salt and black pepper. This adds flavor and sets the stage for a delicious dish!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or coconut oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and nearly cooked through. Then, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until they become softened and fragrant. This will build the flavorful base for your sauce!
4. Add the Green Beans:
Next, toss the trimmed green beans into the skillet and continue cooking for another 2 minutes. The green beans should start to soften but still have a bit of crunch to them.
5. Stir in Coconut Milk:
Pour in the coconut milk and stir everything together. Make sure to scrape any browned bits on the bottom of the pan; they add a lot of flavors to your dish!
6. Add Lime Zest and Juice:
Now it’s time to bring in the bright flavors! Stir in the lime zest and fresh lime juice, and let the sauce come to a gentle simmer.
7. Return the Chicken:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon some of the luscious sauce over them, then cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let everything cook together for another 8-10 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures your chicken is fully cooked while soaking up all those wonderful flavors!
8. Add Fresh Cilantro:
Just before serving, stir in the chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness.
9. Garnish and Serve:
If desired, sprinkle extra cilantro and toasted coconut flakes over the top for a delightful finishing touch. Serve the creamy coconut lime chicken hot, ideally over rice or with your favorite side dish like quinoa or a fresh salad.
This dish results in tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich, tangy coconut lime sauce, with colorful green beans adding both crunch and nutrition. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute for chicken breasts, as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just be sure to adjust cooking times slightly as thighs may need a bit longer to cook through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
This recipe is already dairy-free, thanks to the coconut milk! Just be mindful of any additional garnishes or sides you choose to ensure they align with your dietary preferences.
What Could I Swap for Green Beans?
If you don’t have green beans on hand, feel free to use any other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as some veggies cook faster or slower than green beans.
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may want to add a splash of coconut milk to keep the sauce creamy.
