The vibrant flavors of this One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken make it a must-try! The creamy coconut sauce, infused with the zesty freshness of lime and a touch of spice, perfectly complements the tender, pan-seared chicken thighs. This dish brings a balance of richness and brightness, making it a delightful meal for any occasion. Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare all in just one pan! Whether served over fluffy rice, noodles, or paired with steamed greens, this Thai-inspired meal will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s customizable to suit different spice levels and dietary preferences, making it a perfect go-to recipe.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Chicken
- 8 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
- 2 tsp sea salt flakes
- 1 tsp ground pepper
- 1 tbsp flour (can use gluten-free flour)
- 1 tsp sweet paprika (optional)
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 tbsp light olive oil or rapeseed oil
For the Sauce
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp minced ginger
- 1 green jalapeno, finely diced
- 2 shallots, finely diced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (purée)
- 1 tsp Sriracha (or more to taste)
- 2 tbsp light soy sauce
- 400g (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 3 tbsp coconut cream (optional)
- 1 lime (zest only)
To Serve
- 2 tbsp salted peanuts, roughly chopped
- 5 spring onions, finely diced
- Red pepper flakes
- Fresh coriander (cilantro), chopped
- Lime wedges
Directions:
- Trim the chicken thighs of any fat and pat dry. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using. Lightly dust with flour on both sides.
- Heat coconut oil and olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for a few minutes per side until golden. Transfer to a plate.
- Add lime juice to the hot pan, scraping up the browned bits with a wooden spoon.
- Reduce heat and add garlic, ginger, and jalapeno. Stir in the shallots and cook for 2 minutes. Then, mix in tomato paste, Sriracha, and soy sauce.
- Pour in the coconut milk and coconut cream, stirring well. Return the chicken to the pan and add the lime zest. Cover and simmer on low for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Garnish with spring onions, chopped peanuts, coriander, and red pepper flakes. Serve with lime wedges and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes Kcal: 651 kcal | Servings: 4
The Magic of Coconut and Lime
The combination of coconut and lime is a classic in many cuisines, particularly in Southeast Asian cooking. The creamy, rich texture of coconut milk pairs beautifully with the acidity and brightness of lime, creating a well-balanced dish that is both comforting and refreshing.
Coconut milk, a key ingredient in this dish, not only adds creaminess but also infuses the chicken with a mild sweetness. It helps to mellow out the spice and enhances the overall depth of flavor. Additionally, coconut milk is a great alternative to heavy cream, making this dish dairy-free while still maintaining a luxurious texture.
Lime, on the other hand, plays a crucial role in cutting through the richness of the coconut milk. Its acidity brightens up the dish, making it feel light and fresh despite the creamy base. The zest of lime also adds an extra layer of citrusy aroma that elevates the dish’s complexity.
Together, these two ingredients create an irresistible sauce that soaks into the chicken, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor.
The Appeal of One-Pan Cooking
One of the biggest advantages of this Coconut Lime Chicken recipe is that it is a one-pan dish. Cooking everything in a single pan not only reduces the cleanup time but also allows the flavors to develop beautifully. The process of searing the chicken first helps lock in moisture and creates a golden crust, while the sauce is built directly in the same pan, ensuring that all the delicious browned bits from the chicken contribute to the overall flavor.
For those who love cooking but dislike washing multiple pots and pans, this dish is a game-changer. With just one pan, you get a meal that is rich in taste without the hassle of extra dishwashing.
Versatility and Pairing Suggestions
Another reason this dish is so appealing is its versatility. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, allowing you to customize the meal based on your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Steamed Rice: A classic option that soaks up the creamy coconut sauce beautifully. Jasmine rice or basmati rice works best for an authentic touch.
- Cauliflower Rice: For those looking for a low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice provides a nutritious and lighter option.
- Noodles: Serve this dish over rice noodles or egg noodles for a comforting meal that absorbs the rich flavors of the sauce.
- Vegetables: Add steamed broccoli, green beans, or bok choy for a well-rounded meal with extra nutrients and crunch.
- Flatbreads: A side of warm naan or roti can also work well, perfect for scooping up every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
The beauty of this recipe is that it adapts to different preferences, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.
Customizing the Dish to Suit Your Taste
While this Coconut Lime Chicken recipe is already delicious as is, there are several ways to modify it based on personal preference.
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Adjusting the Spice Level:
- If you prefer a mild dish, reduce or omit the Sriracha and jalapeño.
- If you enjoy a spicy kick, add extra Sriracha or red pepper flakes to turn up the heat.
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Using Different Proteins:
- While chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe due to their tenderness and flavor, you can also use chicken breasts. Just be sure to butterfly them for even cooking.
- This recipe works well with shrimp or firm tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian alternative.
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Adding Vegetables:
- Stirring in vegetables like baby spinach, bell peppers, or snap peas can enhance the dish’s texture and nutritional value.
- Adding edamame or green beans towards the end of cooking can introduce more protein and fiber.
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Making It Creamier:
- If you love an extra creamy texture, increase the amount of coconut cream for a richer sauce.
- For a lighter version, you can use light coconut milk instead of full-fat coconut milk.
Health Benefits of Coconut Lime Chicken
This dish isn’t just delicious; it also offers several health benefits.
- High in Protein: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which helps in muscle repair and keeps you feeling full for longer.
- Rich in Healthy Fats: Coconut milk provides healthy fats, particularly medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are known to support energy production and metabolism.
- Packed with Antioxidants: Lime is rich in vitamin C, an essential antioxidant that helps boost the immune system and promote healthy skin.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Ingredients like ginger and garlic have natural anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
This means you’re not only enjoying a flavorful dish but also nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, Coconut Lime Chicken stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply transfer the dish to an airtight container and keep it chilled.
To reheat:
- Warm it gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
- You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
This dish also makes for a great meal prep option, as the flavors continue to deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day!
Conclusion:
Coconut Lime Chicken is a fantastic dish that brings together bold flavors, creamy textures, and a hint of spice. Its one-pan preparation makes it an excellent choice for those looking for an easy yet impressive meal, and its versatility ensures that it can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
Whether you serve it with rice, noodles, or vegetables, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. It’s a perfect balance of comfort and freshness, making it ideal for both family dinners and special occasions.