Coconut Lime Chicken with Rice is an absolute burst of sunshine on your plate—a creamy, tangy, and aromatic meal that comes together in just about 35 minutes. The juicy, tender chicken is infused with zesty lime, savory soy, and luscious coconut milk, then served over fragrant jasmine or basmati rice with a drizzle of vibrant sauce. This easy weeknight dinner is a hit with families, but fancy enough to impress a table full of friends. Whether you crave comfort food or a taste of the tropics, this Coconut Lime Chicken with Rice effortlessly satisfies every palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every component of this dish has its role—from the creamy coconut milk enriching the sauce, to the fresh cilantro that brightens every bite. A handful of fridge and pantry staples come together to create Coconut Lime Chicken with Rice, making it as doable as it is delicious.
- Chicken breasts: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for quick, even cooking and juicy results.
- Olive oil: A little olive oil helps you get that crave-worthy golden sear on your chicken pieces.
- Coconut milk (full-fat): This is the star of the sauce, lending velvety richness and a hint of tropical sweetness.
- Lime (juice and zest): Using both juice and zest gives the marinade a punchy, bright citrus kick that elevates the whole dish.
- Garlic (minced): Freshly minced garlic layers in savory, aromatic flavor that soaks right into the chicken.
- Soy sauce: Just a splash balances the sweetness and adds irresistible umami depth.
- Honey: A spoonful of honey subtly sweetens the marinade and rounds out the edges of tart lime.
- Ground ginger: This spice brings gentle warmth and an aromatic lift to your sauce.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for pulling all those lively flavors together.
- Jasmine or basmati rice: These fragrant rice varieties soak up the coconut-lime sauce beautifully and add texture.
- Fresh cilantro (optional): Chopped cilantro is perfect for a fresh garnish, though you can skip it if you’re not a fan.
How to Make Coconut Lime Chicken with Rice
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by whisking together coconut milk, zesty lime (both juice and zest), minced garlic, soy sauce, honey, ground ginger, and just the right amount of salt and pepper in a bowl. Place your chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish, then pour in the vibrant marinade. Let your chicken soak up all those flavors for at least 30 minutes (but up to 2 hours if you have time—the longer, the better). This step ensures your Coconut Lime Chicken with Rice is brimming with flavor all the way through.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
While the chicken marinates, get your rice going. Rinse jasmine or basmati rice with cool water, then cook according to the package instructions. Fluffy, fragrant rice is the perfect canvas for that creamy coconut lime sauce, so don’t skip this step—the rice should be ready just as your chicken comes off the heat.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, letting the excess drip off (but don’t toss the marinade—you’ll need it soon!). Sear each breast for 5 to 6 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate to rest while you focus on the sauce.
Step 4: Make the Coconut Lime Sauce
In that same skillet, pour in the reserved marinade. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes until slightly thickened. This step intensifies the flavors and ensures the sauce is safe and silky—don’t rush it! The coconut milk will reduce a bit and the aromatics mingle, creating the signature sauce that makes Coconut Lime Chicken with Rice so craveable.
Step 5: Coat and Serve
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning plenty of that luscious sauce over the top. Let everything mingle for another minute, then serve each piece of chicken over a fresh bed of steamed rice. Don’t forget to finish with a sprinkle of cilantro if you wish. Every forkful bursts with flavor—creamy coconut, zingy lime, and just the right amount of sweet-salty sauce.
How to Serve Coconut Lime Chicken with Rice
Garnishes
A shower of freshly chopped cilantro is a classic choice—the herbal freshness is lovely against the creamy sauce. If you want something extra, thinly sliced green onions or toasted coconut flakes also add fantastic color and a playful finish to Coconut Lime Chicken with Rice. For extra brightness, consider an extra wedge of lime on the side to squeeze over just before digging in.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty on its own, but pairs beautifully with light, crisp sides. Steamed vegetables like broccolini, snap peas, or baby bok choy lend a fresh contrast and balance the richness of the coconut sauce. For something special, serve Coconut Lime Chicken with Rice alongside a bright mango salad or quick pickled cucumbers for a sweet-tangy lift.
Creative Ways to Present
For company, serve each chicken breast sliced atop a plush mound of jasmine rice, drizzle with extra sauce, and arrange fresh lime wheels and cilantro artfully. For a casual family night, pile it all into a large platter family-style so everyone can help themselves. If you’re feeling playful, stuff the chicken and rice into lettuce wraps or hollowed pineapples for a truly unforgettable Coconut Lime Chicken with Rice experience!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Coconut Lime Chicken with Rice stores like a dream! Let everything cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers—store chicken and rice separately if possible to maintain texture. Leftovers will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making weekday lunches downright exciting.
Freezing
Both the chicken and the coconut lime sauce freeze beautifully. Freeze in meal-sized portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. When freezing rice, be sure it’s cooled and portioned out to prevent clumping. Thaw everything in the fridge overnight for best results and freshness.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken and sauce together in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen the sauce if needed. Rice can be fluffed and microwaved with a damp paper towel on top to restore moisture. This way, your Coconut Lime Chicken with Rice will taste just as luscious as the first day it was made!
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work brilliantly and are even more forgiving—they’ll come out juicy and flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they’re cooked through.
Is Coconut Lime Chicken with Rice gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, this recipe remains completely gluten-free. Always double-check labels if you have specific dietary needs.
Can I make Coconut Lime Chicken with Rice ahead for meal prep?
Definitely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. Marinate and cook the chicken, prepare your rice, and portion everything into containers for effortless lunches or dinners all week long. Just remember to keep the rice and sauce separate if possible until you reheat.
What vegetables go well with this dish?
Steamed or stir-fried green beans, snap peas, carrots, or even a crunchy cabbage slaw make wonderful accompaniments. Roasted veggies add heartiness and soak up the sauce deliciously too!
How can I make it spicier?
If you love heat, add 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes or a chopped chili to the marinade—incredible with the tropical flavors of Coconut Lime Chicken with Rice! You can also add a swirl of sriracha or chili crisp over the finished dish for an extra zing.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably happy about a bowl of Coconut Lime Chicken with Rice—the kind of meal that brightens the table and brings everyone back for seconds. If you’re craving something creamy, citrusy, and deeply comforting yet simple, this is your go-to recipe. Give it a try soon, and watch it become a treasured favorite in your kitchen!
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Coconut Lime Chicken with Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Coconut Lime Chicken with Rice recipe is a delightful combination of creamy coconut, zesty lime, and tender chicken served over fragrant rice. It’s a perfect blend of flavors that will transport you to a tropical paradise with every bite.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk (full-fat)
- juice and zest of 2 limes
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- salt and black pepper to taste
For the Rice:
- 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut milk, lime juice and zest, garlic, soy sauce, honey, ginger, salt, and pepper. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Rice: Prepare the rice according to package instructions and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Sear the marinated chicken in olive oil until golden and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes per side. Set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Simmer the reserved marinade in the skillet until slightly thickened. Return the chicken to the skillet and coat with the sauce.
- Serve: Serve the chicken over rice, spooning extra sauce on top. Garnish with cilantro.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes or a chopped chili to the marinade.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a side of mango salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with rice
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
