Get ready to fall in love with a dish that manages to be both luxurious and refreshing: Coconut Lime Chicken. Tender chicken simmers in a silky coconut sauce kissed with bright lime, fragrant spices, and just a hint of sweetness, resulting in a meal that’s endlessly craveable. Each bite is a balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors that make this dish a true crowd-pleaser—perfect for busy weeknights as well as laid-back dinner parties.

Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the impressive flavors fool you—Coconut Lime Chicken comes together with just a handful of approachable ingredients. Every item adds its own punch, whether it’s lush richness, a citrusy zip, or the warmth of well-loved spices.

Chicken Breasts or Thighs: The foundation of the dish, providing satisfying texture and soaking up the vibrant coconut-lime sauce beautifully.
Olive Oil or Coconut Oil: For sizzling and browning the chicken to perfection, plus a subtle flavor boost.
Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to highlight every delicious layer of flavor.
Garlic Powder, Ground Cumin, & Paprika: This trio brings an aromatic depth and just the right hint of earthiness.
Chili Flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick for those who love a touch of heat.
Onion & Fresh Garlic: Key aromatics that infuse the sauce with irresistible flavor.
Canned Coconut Milk (full-fat preferred): The creamy heart of the sauce, with a natural, subtle sweetness.
Chicken Broth: Adds body to the sauce while keeping every drop savory and balanced.
Fresh Lime Juice & Zest: Brings out that signature zing, cutting through the richness and brightening the whole dish.
Soy Sauce or Coconut Aminos: Sneaks in umami and a gorgeous golden color.
Honey or Maple Syrup (optional): Rounds out the tartness without overpowering.
Fresh Cilantro: For a burst of herbal freshness right before serving.

How to Make Coconut Lime Chicken

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels—this helps get that irresistible golden crust. Generously sprinkle both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, and chili flakes (if you crave some spice). This super-simple spice blend is your shortcut to layers of flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil or coconut oil in a large skillet set to medium-high. Once shimmering, lay in the chicken without crowding the pan. Sear for 4 to 5 minutes per side, aiming for a deep golden color—the kind that promises big flavor. When done, move the chicken to a plate so it can rest while you work on the sauce.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet (don’t clean it—the little browned bits are gold!), toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until it softens and smells amazing. Stir in minced garlic and let it cook for 30 more seconds, just until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Coconut Lime Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up anything stuck to the bottom for extra depth. Next, swirl in the coconut milk, lime juice, lime zest, soy sauce (or coconut aminos), and honey if you want a gentle hint of sweetness. Give everything a gentle stir to combine all those tropical layers.

Step 5: Simmer and Meld the Flavors

Reduce heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes. This is where Coconut Lime Chicken starts coming into its own—the ingredients have just enough time to marry while the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 6: Finish Cooking the Chicken

Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling each piece into the lush sauce. Spoon some sauce over the top, then cover and simmer for 8 to 10 more minutes. You’re aiming for perfectly cooked chicken (165°F or 75°C at the center) and a sauce so fragrant, you’ll want to dive right in.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Now comes the fun—sprinkle fresh cilantro all over the top as your final flourish! Serve immediately, spooning plenty of that creamy, tangy sauce over each portion.

How to Serve Coconut Lime Chicken

Garnishes

A simple flourish can elevate Coconut Lime Chicken from homey to restaurant-worthy. Just before serving, scatter chopped fresh cilantro over each plate. For an extra pop, add a little extra lime zest or even a wedge of lime on the side for squeezing.

Side Dishes

This dish loves a partner that can soak up all that dreamy sauce. Steamed jasmine or basmati rice are classics, while fluffy quinoa or even cauliflower rice pair beautifully for a lighter approach. If you’re after extra veggies, quick-sautéed green beans or roasted broccoli make colorful, nutrient-rich sides.

Creative Ways to Present

Wow your guests by slicing the chicken and fanning it out over a mound of rice, then drizzling with sauce. Coconut Lime Chicken also shines served over rice noodles or nestled into lettuce cups for a playful, hands-on meal. Garnish generously and serve family-style for cozy gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Coconut Lime Chicken keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the sauce covers the chicken to keep everything moist and flavorful.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the chicken and sauce together in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, gently simmer leftover Coconut Lime Chicken in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened. Microwave works too—just cover the dish and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally for even warming.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicy and tender, making them a fantastic alternative in Coconut Lime Chicken. Just be sure to cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Is the dish spicy?

You control the heat. The chili flakes are optional—add more for a gentle kick, or leave them out if you’re feeding spice-sensitive eaters.

What’s the best coconut milk to use?

For the richest flavor and creamiest sauce, choose full-fat canned coconut milk. Lite coconut milk works in a pinch but will yield a thinner sauce.

Can I make Coconut Lime Chicken dairy free and gluten free?

Yes! The base recipe is naturally dairy free. To keep it gluten free, simply swap out soy sauce for gluten free tamari or coconut aminos.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

While this recipe doesn’t require marinating, you can let chicken sit in the spice rub for up to 12 hours in the fridge to deepen the flavors before cooking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that feels special yet is supremely simple to bring together, Coconut Lime Chicken checks every box. It’s bold, bright, and just the thing for shaking up your dinner routine. Give it a try and watch this tropical-inspired recipe become one of your favorites, too!