There’s something about the creamy tang of coconut milk paired with fresh lime that instantly lifts your mood. I stumbled upon this Coconut Lime Chicken recipe during one of those hectic weeks when I was tired of repeating the same meals—but still needed something comforting, flavorful, and quick.
That first bite? Pure bliss. The tender chicken thighs soak up every drop of the rich, citrusy sauce, while hints of ginger, garlic, and a whisper of Sriracha bring a warm, cozy kick without overwhelming the palate.
This dish is a go-to for anyone looking to enjoy cleaner comfort food without sacrificing flavor. Packed with protein and made with low-sodium broth, it supports balanced eating and can even fit into weight loss plans when served with something light like jasmine rice or steamed veggies.
In fact, studies show that meals rich in lean protein and healthy fats (like coconut milk) can reduce appetite and promote better metabolism. It’s especially perfect during warmer months when your taste buds crave something bright, bold, and refreshing.
And the best part? It comes together in under 40 minutes—weeknight dinners just got an upgrade. Try pairing it with a chilled glass of Apricot Berry Fizz or a warm bite of Breakfast Naan to complete your table.
You’ll come back to this one. Again and again.
Why You’ll Want to Make This Again and Again!
- Weeknight Wonder: I turn to this on busy evenings—it feels like a treat, but it’s surprisingly light and wholesome. The quick prep and minimal cleanup are total lifesavers.
- Flavor That Transports You: The blend of creamy coconut and zesty lime hits all the right notes. It’s like a mini tropical vacation, whether it’s sunny out or you’re wrapped in a blanket.
- Easy to Make Low-Carb: I’ve swapped out regular rice for cauliflower rice many times—it’s just as satisfying and fits my healthy eating goals without any guilt.
- Leftovers You’ll Look Forward To: This is one of those rare dishes that tastes even better the next day. I love packing it for lunch or enjoying it again without the extra effort.
- Nourishing and Comforting: It’s my go-to when I need something homemade that feeds both my body and soul—comforting, flavorful, and good for you too.
Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Cutting Board
- Sharp Knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Small bowl (for cornstarch slurry)
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 5 skinless boneless chicken thighs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 13 2/3 ounce can unsweetened coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon honey or to taste
- 2 teaspoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha or to taste
- 1 1/2 teaspoons lime zest or to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice or to taste
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespon chopped fresh cilantro or as needed
- lime wedges
- toasted unsweetened coconut flakes optional
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken with paprika, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and pepper.
- Sear chicken until golden brown and cooked through; remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth, coconut milk, honey, soy sauce, Sriracha, lime zest, and juice.
- Simmer for 5–7 minutes; mix cornstarch with water and stir into sauce to thicken.
- Return chicken to the pan and simmer for 5 more minutes.
- Garnish with cilantro, lime wedges, and optional coconut flakes before serving.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 409kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 13g |
| Protein | 38g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Sodium | 637mg |
Next-Level Variations For Coconut Lime Chicken!
- Swap Thighs for Chicken Meatballs: Roll up ground chicken with herbs and spices to make coconut lime meatballs—super fun for serving over noodles or rice bowls.
- Add Crushed Lemongrass for Depth: For an extra layer of Southeast Asian flavor, lightly bruise a stalk of lemongrass and simmer it in the sauce. Just remember to remove it before serving.
- Use Coconut Cream for a Richer Sauce: If you love a thicker, more indulgent texture, replace coconut milk with coconut cream. It clings to the chicken beautifully and feels more luxurious.
- Toss in Thai Basil or Kaffir Lime Leaves: A handful of Thai basil or a couple of torn kaffir lime leaves brings a bold, authentic twist to the dish. They’re subtle, but they make all the difference.
- Stir in Baby Spinach or Kale: Right before finishing the sauce, toss in some leafy greens. They wilt quickly and soak up that dreamy coconut-lime flavor—perfect for sneaking in extra nutrients.
- Finish with Toasted Sesame Oil: A tiny drizzle at the end gives the dish a deep, nutty aroma and adds that “restaurant-style” finish we all love.
- Serve It Over Soba or Rice Noodles: Instead of plain rice, pair this dish with soba or rice noodles. They soak up the sauce beautifully and give a fun twist to the texture.
- Add Crushed Cashews or Peanuts for Crunch: Sprinkle roasted, crushed cashews or peanuts on top before serving for added texture and a nutty contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Try It with Grilled Pineapple Chunks: Grilled pineapple brings in a smoky-sweet contrast that pairs surprisingly well with the tangy lime. It’s a tropical upgrade that never fails.
- Make It a Soup: Add a little extra chicken broth and thin rice noodles, and you’ve got a hearty coconut lime soup with the same flavor base—perfect for cooler nights.
