One-pan coconut-lime chicken is your go-to solution for a quick, flavorful dinner. You'll marinate chicken thighs in creamy coconut milk and zesty lime, then sear them to perfection. Add garlic, ginger, and jalapeños for a burst of flavor. Everything simmers in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Serve it over rice or cauliflower rice for a hearty meal. Want tips on enhancing the dish or other ways to enjoy it? Stick around for more insights!
History

When you explore the history of coconut-lime chicken, you'll find its roots in Southeast Asian cuisine, where the harmonious blend of coconut milk and lime has long been celebrated.
This dish reflects the region's culinary traditions, with coconut milk being a staple ingredient in tropical regions for centuries. Traditional recipes from countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines often showcase the fusion of flavors that balance savory, sweet, and acidic notes, particularly when paired with tender chicken.
Recently, coconut-lime chicken has gained traction in Western cuisine, highlighting the growing trend of incorporating international flavors into everyday cooking.
Typically served with rice, this dish embodies the traditional way of enjoying meals in many Asian cultures, where rice complements rich sauces beautifully.
Recipe

Ingredients:
- 4 skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs (or boneless thighs/chicken breasts)
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- Juice and zest of 2 limes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 2 shallots, thinly sliced
- 1-2 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
- Cooked rice or cauliflower rice, for serving
Cooking Instructions:
Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the shallots, garlic, ginger, and jalapeño, sautéing until fragrant.
Pour in the coconut milk, lime juice, lime zest, and Sriracha, stirring to combine.
Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Adjust seasoning as needed, then serve over rice or cauliflower rice, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate in the lime juice and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
This will enhance the taste and tenderness of the meat.
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini during the sautéing stage for added nutrition and color.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce.
Finally, don't shy away from experimenting with the spice level; start with less Sriracha and adjust according to your preference!
Cooking Steps

To start cooking your One-Pan Coconut-Lime Chicken, you'll want to marinate the chicken in coconut milk for extra flavor.
Next, sear the chicken in a hot skillet until it's golden brown, then add in your vegetables and spices.
Finish the dish by stirring in fresh lime juice and cilantro to bring it all together.
Step 1. Marinate Chicken in Coconut Milk

Marinating chicken in coconut milk not only infuses it with rich flavor but also helps tenderize the meat, ensuring a juicy result after cooking.
To achieve ideal results, you should marinate the chicken in coconut milk for at least 30 minutes, but allowing it to soak for up to 4 hours will provide deeper flavor absorption.
Enhance the marinade by incorporating lime juice and zest for a revitalizing citrus note.
Don't forget to add spices like salt, pepper, and paprika to elevate the overall taste.
Make sure the chicken pieces are fully coated in the coconut milk mixture and store it in the refrigerator during the marinating period to maintain food safety.
Additionally, consider serving this dish with a side of high-fiber foods to further support digestive health.
Enjoy your juicier chicken!
Step 2. Sear Chicken in Hot Skillet

Heat your skillet over medium-high heat until it's hot enough to sizzle when you add oil.
Use coconut oil or a neutral cooking oil to prevent sticking and enhance the chicken's flavor.
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help achieve a better sear and avoid steaming in the skillet.
When the oil is shimmering, carefully place the chicken in the skillet.
Sear the chicken for 3-5 minutes on each side until it's golden brown.
This process locks in moisture and flavor while giving you that desired crispy skin.
Be mindful not to overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary to maintain high heat.
This guarantees you get the perfect chicken dinner every time!
Step 3. Add Lime Juice and Zest

Once you've achieved that perfect sear on the chicken, it's time to elevate the dish with fresh lime juice and zest.
Pour lime juice into the pan to deglaze, using the acidity to lift those delicious browned bits from the bottom. This process enriches the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
As you add lime zest, you'll notice the intensified citrus flavor and fragrant aroma that beautifully complement the coconut elements.
Adjust the lime juice to your taste, ranging from a subtle hint to a bold tanginess, ensuring ideal flavor.
Remember to add both the juice and zest just before serving to maintain their freshness and prevent bitterness from overcooking.
Enjoy the vibrant, zesty kick they bring! Additionally, this dish pairs wonderfully with best vacuums for dust removal to keep your kitchen spotless while cooking.
Step 4. Simmer With Vegetables and Spices

After you've seared the chicken to perfection, lower the heat and add aromatics like garlic, ginger, and shallots to the pan.
Let them simmer for about a minute to infuse the dish with flavor.
Next, pour in the rich coconut milk and cream, followed by lime juice and soy sauce, creating a luscious sauce that complements the chicken.
Add your choice of vegetables—like jalapeños and any additional greens—toward the end of cooking to keep their texture intact.
Allow everything to simmer for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the spices meld beautifully.
Taste and adjust the seasonings, adding more Sriracha or lime juice if you want to elevate the spice level or acidity.
Enjoy!
Step 5. Add Fresh Cilantro Garnish

As the chicken simmers in the rich coconut-lime sauce, it's time to elevate the dish with a fresh cilantro garnish.
Take about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro leaves and chop them finely. This vibrant herb adds a burst of color and flavor, beautifully complementing the tropical notes of coconut and lime while providing a revitalizing contrast to the dish's richness.
Just before you serve the coconut-lime chicken, sprinkle the chopped cilantro generously over the top for maximum freshness. Aromatherapy sessions can lead to improved mood and emotional well-being, much like how this garnish enhances the overall experience of your meal.
For added visual appeal, consider placing a few whole cilantro sprigs alongside lime wedges on the plate. This simple garnish not only enhances the flavor but also makes your dish look irresistible!
Final Thoughts

While preparing a meal can sometimes feel intimidating, One-Pan Coconut-Lime Chicken proves that a delicious and impressive dish doesn't have to be complicated.
This recipe showcases tender chicken simmered in a creamy coconut milk sauce, infused with zesty lime for a flavorful experience. In about 30 minutes, you can create an easy, nutritious meal that's perfect for busy weeknights.
The flexibility of using skin-on or boneless chicken thighs means you can adapt it to your preferences, while adding vegetables boosts the nutrition.
Don't forget to garnish with fresh cilantro for that extra flair, and serve it over rice or cauliflower rice to complete the meal.
Enjoy the rich flavors and enjoy the simplicity of cooking in just one pan!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts!
Thighs are juicier and packed with flavor, making them a great choice for many recipes. They also tend to stay tender even if you cook them a little longer.
Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly since thighs are usually thicker.
What Can I Substitute for Coconut Milk?
If you're looking to substitute coconut milk, you've got a few options.
You can use almond milk mixed with a bit of coconut extract for a similar flavor.
Another choice is to blend equal parts of heavy cream and water for a creamier texture.
If you want a dairy-free option, try soy milk or oat milk, though they'll change the taste slightly.
Just remember to adjust seasonings to keep the dish balanced!
Is This Dish Suitable for Meal Prep?
Yes, this dish is suitable for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and store individual portions in airtight containers.
Just refrigerate or freeze them, and when you're ready to eat, simply reheat. The flavors may even intensify, making it even tastier.
Just be sure to keep an eye on the freshness of any ingredients you use, especially if you're including fresh produce.
With a little planning, you'll enjoy delicious meals all week!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
To adjust the spice level, you can easily modify the ingredients.
If you want more heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder taste, reduce the amount of spicy seasonings or omit them entirely.
You could also balance the spice with sweetness by adding honey or sugar.
Taste as you go; it's all about finding the perfect balance for your palate.
Enjoy experimenting!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely, you can add vegetables to the recipe!
Just choose your favorites, like bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas. Chop them into bite-sized pieces and toss them in during cooking.
They'll absorb the flavors and enhance the dish. Keep an eye on cooking times; some veggies might need a bit longer than others.
You'll create a colorful, nutritious meal that's packed with flavor and texture. Enjoy your culinary creativity!