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Hey y’all! Looking for a vibrant, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s both quick and irresistibly flavorful? This One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken hits all the right notes—juicy, tangy, and bursting with creamy coconut and zingy lime. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight meal or impressing guests, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. Ready for a one-pan wonder that’ll simplify your dinner routine? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken

Quick to prepare—on the table in about 30 minutes!

Minimal cleanup thanks to the one-pan method.
Packed with bold, tropical flavors for a satisfying meal.
Versatile enough for meal prep, family dinners, or parties.

Gluten-free and easily adaptable for different diets.

One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken: Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs/680g)
1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 small onion, thinly sliced

3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup (240ml) full-fat coconut milk
Zest and juice of 2 limes

1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish)
Lime wedges, for serving

How to Make One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken: Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet (preferably nonstick or cast iron) over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside (it doesn’t need to be cooked through yet).

Step 2: Prepare the Coconut Lime Sauce

In the same pan, lower the heat to medium. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened, about 2 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the coconut milk, lime zest, lime juice, honey, cumin, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Simmer & Finish the Chicken

Return the chicken breasts to the pan, nestling them into the sauce.

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the chicken before serving. Garnish with extra lime wedges.

Notes for the Best One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken

For extra depth of flavor, try marinating the chicken in lime juice and a touch of olive oil for 30 minutes before cooking.

Full-fat coconut milk gives the sauce a rich, creamy texture; light coconut milk will yield a thinner sauce.
Learn more about the nutritional benefits of coconut milk at Healthline.

Delicious Variations on One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken

Spicy Thai-Inspired: Add 1 tablespoon of red curry paste to the sauce for a fiery kick.

Vegetable Boost: Stir in a cup of sliced bell peppers and snap peas before simmering.
Low-Carb Version: Use chicken thighs and serve over cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly meal.

Required Equipment for One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken

Large nonstick or cast iron skillet (with lid)

Cutting board and sharp knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Tongs or spatula

Storing Leftover One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken

Store cooled chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until hot.
Not recommended for freezing, as coconut milk sauce may separate.

Serving Suggestions for One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken

Serve over fluffy jasmine rice or steamed quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
Pair with a crisp cucumber salad or herby green salad for freshness.
Add a side of grilled naan or flatbread for a hearty meal.

Pro Tips for Perfect One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken

For even cooking, pound chicken breasts to an even thickness before searing.
Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 2-3 minutes at the end if you want it thicker.
Check out Serious Eats’ guide to juicy chicken breasts for expert advice.

FAQs: One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?: Absolutely! Just increase simmering time by 3-5 minutes to ensure they’re cooked through.
Can I make this dairy-free and gluten-free?: Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free—just check the labels on your coconut milk and spices.
What if I don’t have fresh limes?: Bottled lime juice will work in a pinch, but fresh limes add the best zest and brightness.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes