If you’re looking for a quick yet flavorful dinner that feels like it came from your favorite Thai restaurant, this 30-Minute Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken is it. The combination of juicy chicken, creamy coconut milk, tangy lime, and aromatic ginger and garlic makes this recipe irresistible. Best of all, it comes together in half an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Want more quick comfort food inspiration? Don’t miss our creamy chicken and gnocchi recipe that also cooks in just one pan.
Why This Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe Works
Quick and fuss-free
With a 10-minute prep and a 20-minute cook, this dish gets dinner on the table in just 30 minutes.
Balanced Thai-inspired flavors
The creaminess of coconut milk pairs beautifully with the zing of fresh lime and the aromatics of ginger and garlic.
Family-approved comfort food
It’s rich and satisfying but still light enough that the whole family will enjoy it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what makes this recipe shine:
Protein
- 4 chicken breasts (or substitute with thighs for juicier meat).
Aromatics
- 1 shallot, diced.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced.
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated.
Flavor builders
- 1/3 cup lime juice (about 2 limes).
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish).
- Salt and black pepper to taste.
Sauce base
- 1.5 cups full-fat coconut milk.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional for thinning).
- 2 tbsp avocado oil (or coconut oil).
Garnish (optional)
- Extra lime wedges.
- Fresh cilantro leaves.
Pro tip: For the creamiest sauce, use a high-quality coconut milk such as Aroy-D. If using a thinner canned option, reduce the broth to maintain thickness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s a detailed cooking process:
Step 1: Prep your ingredients
- Dice the shallot and mince the garlic.
- Grate fresh ginger on a microplane.
- Chop cilantro.
- Juice the limes and set aside.
- Pound the chicken breasts between two sheets of parchment paper until even in thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sear the chicken
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add avocado oil.
- Once hot, place chicken breasts in the pan (cook in batches if necessary).
- Cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and nearly cooked through.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Build the flavor base
- Add more oil if needed. Toss in shallot and garlic.
- Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Make the sauce
- Pour in chicken broth, coconut milk, lime juice, grated ginger, and chopped cilantro.
- Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the pan (these add flavor!).
Step 5: Finish cooking
- Return chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
- Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for about 5 minutes or until chicken is fully cooked (internal temp should reach 165°F).
Step 6: Serve
- Spoon creamy coconut lime sauce over the chicken.
- Garnish with extra cilantro and lime slices.
- Pair with rice, noodles, or roasted vegetables.
Discover great pairings like our creamy garlic red pepper chicken for another bold, saucy chicken dish.
Pro Tips for Perfect Coconut Lime Chicken
- Don’t skip the sear: Browning the chicken adds depth to the dish.
- Adjust thickness: If sauce is too thick, splash in extra broth; too thin, simmer uncovered.
- Boost Thai authenticity: Add lemongrass, fish sauce, or a pinch of chili flakes.
- Use thighs for tenderness: Chicken thighs stay juicier and require less prep than breasts.
Want another coconut-inspired dinner? Try our coconut curry chicken meatballs.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy coconut lime chicken is versatile and can be served with:
- Starchy sides: Jasmine rice, basmati rice, or noodles.
- Vegetable sides: Steamed broccoli, roasted carrots, or zucchini noodles.
- Low-carb option: Cauliflower rice.
Don’t miss our creamy mushroom chicken for another rich one-pan dinner idea.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy version: Add Thai red chilies or red pepper flakes.
- Dairy twist: Replace coconut milk with heavy cream (not authentic but still delicious).
- Vegetarian adaptation: Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas.
Meal Prep, Storage, and Freezing
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stove to prevent the coconut milk from separating.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~502 |
| Protein | ~50g |
| Fat | ~31g |
| Saturated Fat | ~18g |
| Carbohydrates | ~6g |
This makes it an excellent low-carb, high-protein option.
FAQs About Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken
PAA1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Thighs are juicier and don’t require pounding.
PAA2: What can I substitute for coconut milk?
Cashew cream or heavy cream works, but flavor will differ.
PAA3: Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free.
PAA4: Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! It reheats beautifully and works for meal prep.
PAA5: What sides pair best?
Rice, noodles, roasted vegetables, or fresh salad.
PAA6: Can I make it spicy?
Yes, add Thai chilies or red pepper flakes for heat.
Conclusion
This 30-Minute Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken is more than just a quick dinner—it’s a vibrant, Thai-inspired dish that combines creaminess, zest, and comfort. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping, or simply craving something different, this recipe is a winner.
Looking for another flavor-packed dinner? Try our baked crunchy hot honey chicken for a sweet-spicy twist on weeknight chicken.