Let me tell you, lime chilli coconut chicken is one of those dishes that just bursts with flavor! Picture this: tender chicken infused with zesty lime, a kick of chili, and the creamy goodness of coconut milk. It’s like a tropical vacation on your plate! I remember the first time I made this for my friends—they were blown away by how vibrant and fresh it tasted. The tangy lime cuts through the richness of the coconut, while the chili adds just the right amount of heat. It’s a perfect balance that makes every bite feel like a celebration. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up! Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to in your kitchen for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests. You’ll love it!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make your delicious lime chilli coconut chicken. Gather these ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
- 2 limes (juice and zest)
- 2 tablespoons chili paste (adjust for spice level)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Cilantro for garnish (freshly chopped)
How to Prepare Instructions
Now, let’s dive into making this mouthwatering lime chilli coconut chicken. It’s really straightforward, I promise! First, you’ll want to marinate the chicken. In a large bowl, combine the coconut milk, lime juice, chili paste, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a pinch of salt. Toss in the chicken breasts, making sure they’re well coated. Cover and let them marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. The longer, the better; it really helps the flavors soak in!
Once your chicken is marinated, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. When the oil’s nice and hot, carefully place the marinated chicken in the pan. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want that beautiful golden-brown crust! Make sure the chicken is fully cooked through; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes—this is super important for juicy chicken!
Finally, slice the chicken and serve it up! I love to sprinkle some lime zest and fresh cilantro on top for that extra zing and vibrant color. It’s a feast for the eyes and the taste buds! Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights!
- A delightful balance of zesty lime, spicy chili, and creamy coconut.
- Healthy ingredients make it a guilt-free indulgence!
- One pan means less cleanup—always a win in my book!
- Impress your friends and family with bold flavors that taste gourmet.
- Customize the spice level to suit your taste—make it your own!
Tips for Success
Here are my top tips to make your lime chilli coconut chicken absolutely perfect! First off, don’t rush the marinating process—aim for at least 30 minutes, but if you can, let it sit for a couple of hours or even overnight. The longer the chicken sits, the more vibrant those flavors will be!
When cooking, ensure your pan is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps achieve that lovely golden crust. Keep an eye on the cooking time; if your chicken breasts are particularly thick, you might need to add a minute or two. And remember, let it rest after cooking! This step is crucial for juicy chicken—trust me, you’ll taste the difference!
If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less chili paste and add more as desired. You can also balance the heat with a bit of honey or brown sugar if you like! Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about lime chilli coconut chicken is how easily you can customize it! If you’re in the mood for something a bit different, try adding a tablespoon of soy sauce for an extra umami kick. Want to spice things up? Toss in some red pepper flakes or even fresh chopped chili for a fiery punch! You can also swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a delightful twist. And don’t forget about herbs—basil or mint can add a refreshing layer of flavor. Get creative and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have any leftovers of your delicious lime chilli coconut chicken, you’re in luck! Storing it properly will keep those vibrant flavors intact. Allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep it sealed tight to prevent any moisture loss!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, the best way to reheat them is gently on the stovetop. Just add a splash of coconut milk or a little water to a pan over medium heat, and warm the chicken until it’s heated through. This will help maintain its juicy texture. You can also pop it in the microwave, but I recommend doing so in shorter intervals to avoid drying it out. Enjoy every last bite!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this lime chilli coconut chicken! Each serving typically contains about 350 calories, making it a satisfying yet light option. You’ll get around 20 grams of fat, which includes healthy unsaturated fats from the coconut milk and olive oil. Plus, there’s a whopping 30 grams of protein from the chicken, perfect for keeping you full and energized! With only 8 grams of carbohydrates and 1 gram of fiber, it’s a great choice for those watching their carb intake. Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary depending on specific ingredients used. Enjoy guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but I recommend thawing it completely before marinating. This helps the flavors penetrate the meat more effectively and ensures even cooking.
What can I serve with lime chilli coconut chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or a simple cucumber salad to balance the richness.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level depends on the amount of chili paste you use. Start with the recommended 2 tablespoons, and if you’re looking for more heat, feel free to add more to the marinade for an extra kick!
Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to a day ahead of time. Just keep it in the fridge and cook it fresh when you’re ready to serve. This can help the flavors develop even more!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, lime chilli coconut chicken is naturally gluten-free! Just make sure to check the chili paste ingredients if you’re particularly sensitive, as some brands may contain gluten. Enjoy this flavorful dish worry-free!
For more delicious chicken recipes, check out this collection. You can also explore Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken for another flavorful dish. If you’re interested in healthy meal options, visit Healthy Chicken Recipes for more ideas!
Print
Lime Chilli Coconut Chicken: 5 Flavor-Packed Secrets
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful dish combining lime, chili, and coconut with chicken.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 limes (juice and zest)
- 2 tablespoons chili paste
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate chicken in coconut milk, lime juice, chili paste, garlic, ginger, and salt for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Cook the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
- Remove chicken and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Slice and serve with lime zest and cilantro on top.
Notes
- Adjust chili paste according to your spice preference.
- Serve with rice or salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-fry
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: lime chilli coconut chicken
