Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken is a delicious and tropical dish that features tender chicken simmered in a rich and creamy coconut sauce with a zesty lime flavor. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want to impress guests with something special.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
• Zest and juice of 2 limes
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
• Cooked rice or quinoa for serving

Timing

Making Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika on both sides.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Cook Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
2. Add Coconut Milk and Broth: Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add Lime and Chicken

1. Add Lime Zest and Juice: Stir in the lime zest and juice, then return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish: Serve the creamy coconut lime chicken over cooked rice or quinoa. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	30g
Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	8g
Sugar	2g

Tips for Customization

• Vegetable Additions: Add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or snap peas to the sauce for extra nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the sauce.
• Alternative Proteins: Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken is a flavorful and easy dish that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. Its creamy sauce and zesty lime flavor make it a delightful meal for any occasion.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Just reheat before serving.

What can I serve with this dish?

This chicken pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.