If you’re searching for a dish that brings together velvety richness and bright tropical zest, you absolutely have to try Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken. Every forkful is a dance of juicy chicken bathed in a silky coconut sauce, accented with fresh lime, a mellow kick of chili, and a vibrant swirl of turmeric and bell pepper. Whether you’re unwinding after a busy day or hosting friends for dinner, this is a recipe that delivers comfort and wow-factor in equal measure.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken only needs a handful of simple ingredients, each doing their part to make the dish unforgettable. The result is a delicious, crave-worthy meal that’s as easy to pull off as it is impressive on your table.

Chicken breasts: Tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts soak up all those wonderful flavors and stay juicy in the coconut sauce.

Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the dish.
Olive oil: Gives the chicken a lovely golden sear and helps soften the veggies.

Onion: Diced onion brings a subtle sweetness to the sauce as it cooks down.
Red bell pepper: Pops of color and mild crunch add freshness to every bite.

Garlic: A couple of cloves build a gently aromatic base you’ll smell as soon as it hits the pan.
Chicken stock: Adds body and extra depth of flavor to the creamy sauce.
Cornstarch: Whisked into the stock, it effortlessly thickens the sauce without lumps.

Red chili flakes: Tiny flecks for the lightest hint of heat—adjust to your spice preference!
Turmeric: A half-teaspoon paints the sauce with sunshine and offers subtle earthiness.
Coconut milk: The star of the sauce, lending velvety texture and tropical aroma.

Lime juice: Squeezes in brightness and a signature zing that wakes up the coconut flavors.
Heavy cream: Rounds out the sauce so it’s lush and extra rich—absolutely worth it!
Fresh cilantro: Finishes the dish with a fresh, herbal flourish to balance all the creaminess.

How to Make Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by generously seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, then add the chicken. Let the pieces sizzle undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes per side—this is where the magic of golden, flavorful crust happens! Once they’re beautifully seared and almost cooked through, remove them to a plate and cover to keep them cozy and warm while you build the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In the same skillet (keep those tasty browned bits!), toss in the onion, red bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté everything for about five minutes, allowing the onion to turn translucent and the peppers to soften. The irresistible aroma signals you’re well on your way to Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken bliss.

Step 3: Make the Sauce Base

While the veggies soften, whisk together chicken stock and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet, then sprinkle in the chili flakes and turmeric. Turn up the heat and stir occasionally as the sauce begins to thicken to a gentle, rich consistency—your kitchen will already smell amazing!

Step 4: Add the Creamy Goodness

Pour in the coconut milk and let it simmer for another 3 to 5 minutes to blend all those flavors. Stir in the freshly squeezed lime juice and heavy cream; the sauce will become ultra-luxurious and tangy at the same time. Return the chicken breasts (plus any juices from the plate) back to the skillet, spooning sauce over them. Simmer gently for another 5 to 10 minutes, until the chicken is completely cooked through and infused with flavor. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a beautiful, herbaceous pop.

How to Serve Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken

Garnishes

For the prettiest (and tastiest) finishing touch, shower your Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken with fresh cilantro, extra lime wedges, and maybe a scatter of finely sliced green onions. If you’re feeling extra fancy, a whisper of red chili flakes or a swirl of coconut cream drizzled on top adds color and restaurant-worthy flair.

Side Dishes

This creamy, flavorful chicken begs for a simple base to soak up all that luscious sauce. I love serving it over steamed jasmine rice, fluffy quinoa, or a bed of buttery mashed potatoes. For something lighter, try it with cauliflower rice or a big handful of sautéed greens on the side—the sauce will make even the plainest veggies irresistible.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, spoon Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken into shallow bowls and top with roasted chickpeas for crunch. You can also slice the chicken and pile it into warm flatbreads or lettuce wraps, drizzling extra sauce on top. Or, for a party, serve it taco-style with shredded cabbage, avocado, and a quick slaw. The possibilities are positively mouthwatering!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The sauce may thicken a bit, but a splash of chicken stock or coconut milk brings it right back to life when reheating.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this dish! Let it cool completely before placing the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to two months. For best taste and texture, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat either on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at 50 percent power to avoid scorching the sauce. Stir occasionally and add a splash of liquid if needed, ensuring the chicken stays tender and the sauce stays creamy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a delicious, juicy substitute and soak up the coconut lime sauce beautifully. Just adjust cook time as needed to ensure they’re fully cooked.

Does Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken taste very spicy?

The dish has a gentle warmth from red chili flakes, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. If you’re sensitive to heat (or cooking for kids), start with less chili and adjust to taste.

Can I make Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken dairy-free?

Yes! Simply omit the heavy cream or swap it for extra coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative. It’ll still be creamy and satisfying.

What’s the best way to get the most lime flavor?

Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the brightest, zestiest taste. For an extra citrus pop, grate a bit of lime zest over the dish just before serving.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you want an even richer sauce, simmer a little longer with the lid off, or whisk in a bit more cornstarch mixed with stock. Just be sure to add the cornstarch slurry gradually while stirring to avoid lumps.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so special about making Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken at home—the aroma alone is enough to win over anyone who walks through your door! I hope you give it a try and let it become your new go-to for a comforting, flavor-packed meal. Don’t be surprised if it lands a permanent spot in your weekly rotation!

Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 23 reviews

Author: Mariam
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings 1x

Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich coconut-lime sauce, infused with aromatic spices and finished with a touch of fresh cilantro, make this dish a standout for any occasion.

Instructions

Season and Cook Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet, cook chicken until golden brown. Set aside.
Prepare Sauce: Saute onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Mix chicken stock with cornstarch, add to the skillet with chili flakes and turmeric. Simmer until slightly thickened.

Add Coconut-Lime Mixture: Stir in coconut milk, simmer. Add lime juice, heavy cream, and return chicken to the pan. Season and continue cooking until chicken is done.
Finish and Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red chili flakes.

Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more or less chicken stock.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Asian Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 380
Sugar: 3g

Sodium: 480mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 15g

Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g

Fiber: 1g
Protein: 34g
Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: Coconut Lime Chicken, Creamy Chicken Recipe, Coconut Chicken