Coconut Lime Chicken Skillet

Highlighted under: FlashCook Meals Fast & Simple

A vibrant and flavorful dish combining tender chicken with coconut milk and zesty lime for a delightful meal.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-01T20:10:30.350Z

Indulge in the tropical flavors of our Coconut Lime Chicken Skillet. This dish is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Creamy coconut sauce with a zesty lime kick
  • Quick and easy one-pan meal
  • Perfect balance of flavors and textures

A Flavorful Fusion

Coconut Lime Chicken Skillet is a delightful fusion of tropical flavors and comforting ingredients. The creamy coconut milk pairs beautifully with the zesty lime, creating a sauce that is both refreshing and rich. This dish is perfect for those who crave a taste of the tropics without leaving their kitchen. The vibrant colors and aromatic spices will transport you to a sunny beach, making it an ideal meal for any occasion.

This recipe embraces simplicity while delivering complex flavors. The combination of garlic and ginger enhances the chicken's natural taste, while the lime not only adds brightness but also helps to tenderize the meat. As the chicken cooks in the coconut lime sauce, it absorbs all the flavors, resulting in a dish that’s bursting with taste. Each bite is a delightful experience, making it a favorite for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Quick and Convenient

One of the standout features of Coconut Lime Chicken Skillet is its convenience. This one-pan meal takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal cleanup, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with family or friends. Simply cook the chicken, whip up the sauce, and let the flavors meld together — it’s that easy!

The use of pantry staples like coconut milk and lime juice means you can whip this dish up any time you want a quick yet satisfying meal. Whether you have unexpected guests or just need a fast dinner solution, this recipe has you covered. Plus, the ingredients are easy to find, allowing you to create a gourmet experience without a trip to the specialty store.

Serving Suggestions

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Main Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
  • Juice and zest of 2 limes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for a delicious coconut lime chicken skillet.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through.

Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the coconut milk, lime juice, and lime zest. Stir well to combine.

Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the chicken to the skillet. Simmer in the coconut lime sauce for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve

Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot over rice or with a side of vegetables.

Enjoy your delicious coconut lime chicken skillet!

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers from Coconut Lime Chicken Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the flavors and texture, it’s best to reheat gently. You can warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of coconut milk or water if needed to keep the sauce from thickening too much.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above. This makes it a fantastic meal prep option for busy weeks ahead.

Customizing Your Dish

Feel free to customize Coconut Lime Chicken Skillet to suit your taste preferences. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for an exciting kick. Alternatively, you can experiment with different herbs, such as basil or mint, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas. Both options will absorb the coconut lime flavor beautifully while providing a satisfying protein source. This adaptability makes the recipe suitable for various dietary needs without compromising on taste.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and will provide a juicier result.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! All ingredients are gluten-free.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead, then reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables.

Coconut Lime Chicken Skillet

A vibrant and flavorful dish combining tender chicken with coconut milk and zesty lime for a delightful meal.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: FlashCook Meals Fast & Simple

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Main Ingredients

  1. 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  2. 1 tablespoon olive oil
  3. 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
  4. Juice and zest of 2 limes
  5. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  6. 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  7. Salt and pepper to taste
  8. Chopped cilantro for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 02

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the coconut milk, lime juice, and lime zest. Stir well to combine.

Step 03

Return the chicken to the skillet. Simmer in the coconut lime sauce for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 04

Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot over rice or with a side of vegetables.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 16g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 36g