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Coconut Lime Chicken (Light & Creamy) - Bright, Fresh, and Weeknight Easy

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken: 1.5–2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • Coconut milk: 1 can (13–14 oz) full-fat or light, shaken well
  • Lime: 2 limes (zest and juice)
  • Aromatics: 3 cloves garlic, 1-inch piece fresh ginger (or 1 tsp ground ginger)
  • Broth: 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • Spices: 1 tsp ground coriander, 1/2 tsp turmeric, 1/4–1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Sweetness: 1–2 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for balance)
  • Oil: 1–2 tbsp avocado oil, olive oil, or coconut oil
  • Fresh herbs: Cilantro or basil for garnish
  • Salt and pepper: To taste

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken dry and cut large breasts in half horizontally for even cooking. Season all over with salt and pepper.
  2. Warm the pan: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and swirl to coat.
  3. Sear the chicken: Add chicken and cook until golden on both sides, about 4–5 minutes per side for breasts (a bit less for thighs). Remove to a plate; it will finish in the sauce.
  4. Sauté aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add a drizzle more oil if needed. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant, not browned.
  5. Bloom the spices: Add coriander, turmeric, and red pepper flakes. Stir for 20–30 seconds to release their flavor.
  6. Build the sauce: Pour in chicken broth to deglaze, scraping up browned bits. Add coconut milk and bring to a gentle simmer.
  7. Balance the flavor: Stir in lime zest, 1 tablespoon lime juice, a pinch of salt, and honey if using. Taste and adjust. You want bright, creamy, and lightly savory.
  8. Return the chicken: Nestle chicken back into the sauce. Simmer gently 5–8 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has slightly thickened.
  9. Finish with lime: Off the heat, add another squeeze of lime juice to taste. The brightness should pop without turning sour.
  10. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro or basil. Serve with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables. Spoon extra sauce over everything.