Get ready to transform your dinner routine with a mouthwatering Thai-inspired dish that will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise! This Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken is not just another recipe - it's a culinary adventure that combines the rich, velvety smoothness of coconut milk with the bright, zesty punch of fresh lime. In just 30 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality meal that looks impressive, tastes incredible, and will have your family begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Thai
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
- Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and they develop a nice caramelized exterior. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside temporarily.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Pour in the coconut milk and lime juice, stirring to combine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy coconut sauce. Reduce heat to low-medium and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
- Check the chicken's internal temperature with a meat thermometer - it should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow sauce to thicken slightly.
- Plate the chicken and spoon extra sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.
- Serve hot, optionally with steamed rice or roasted vegetables as a side dish.
Tips
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect golden-brown sear
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee chicken is cooked precisely to 165°F
- Don't rush the searing process - those caramelized edges add incredible depth of flavor
- For extra richness, use full-fat coconut milk
- Fresh lime juice makes a huge difference compared to bottled - squeeze it yourself
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy and allow the sauce to thicken
- Garnish with fresh cilantro just before serving for a burst of color and freshness
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 95mg
