One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken | Easy & Flavorful Dinner Recipe

Ever notice how that first sizzle in the skillet can bring back a whole summer in one sniff? This One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken does just that—citrusy, creamy, and totally dreamy. It’s all over TikTok and Pinterest lately, and for good reason. Just one pan, ready in under 30 minutes, no fuss—just flavor, sunshine, and maybe a tiny kitchen mess.

It’s a cozy, creamy chicken dish that warms the soul and smells like dinner on the porch. Lime juice poppin’, coconut milk swirling, and garlic doing its cozy thing. Most of it’s pantry stuff, I swear. Like mom’s Sunday meal, but trendier. Full details in the blog!

This one’s inspired by lazy weekends in Eleanor’s kitchen—windows open, birds, breeze, and her magic touch. She believed in simple, strong flavors and never measured a thing. I modernized hers just a bit. Tested it eight times. You’ll love the twist!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken hits that magical sweet spot: bold flavors, minimal cleanup, and cozy vibes. Creamy coconut milk, zesty lime, garlic, and tender chicken thighs come together in just one skillet—perfect for weeknights when you’re short on time but craving something special.

The acidity from the lime balances beautifully with the rich coconut milk, while a touch of ginger and jalapeño adds just enough warmth to keep things exciting. Plus, it’s as practical as it is delicious: less washing up, more time to enjoy. Comfort food with a tropical twist!

Ingredients & Tools

Here’s everything you’ll need for this easy chicken dinner. Don’t worry, most of it’s likely in your pantry! The key players are skinless, boneless chicken thighs, full-fat coconut milk, fresh lime juice, and a few fragrant friends like garlic and ginger. To make it all come together, a large skillet or pan is essential—it’s where the magic happens.

Pro Tip: If you’re shopping, look for high-quality coconut milk for that creamy texture. And while the jalapeño and Sriracha are optional, they give a subtle kick that you’ll love.

Ingredient	Possible Swaps
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs	Chicken breasts (adjust cooking time)
Fresh lime juice	Lemongrass or bottled lime juice
Jalapeño	Green chili or omit for milder flavor

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Ready? Let’s cook! Start by patting the chicken thighs dry, then season with sea salt, pepper, and a light dusting of flour—this helps create that golden crust. Heat the coconut and olive oils in your skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for about 3 minutes per side until golden. You’re just cooking the surface now; it’ll finish in the sauce.

Once the chicken is browned and cozy, set it aside. In the same pan, sauté garlic, ginger, shallots, and jalapeño until fragrant—about 2 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste, Sriracha, soy sauce, lime juice, and zest, letting everything sizzle together. Pour in the coconut milk and (if using) coconut cream, and stir until the sauce is velvety. Nestle the chicken back in, lower the heat, and let it simmer for 12–15 minutes until fully cooked.

Step	Time
Sear chicken	6 minutes
Sauté aromatics	2 minutes
Simmer in sauce	12–15 minutes

Common Questions + Troubleshooting

Why does my sauce look curdled? Don’t worry! This can happen if the heat is too high. Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to maintain that creamy texture.

Too much acidity? If the lime flavor feels a bit overpowering, you can add a touch of coconut cream or a pinch of sugar to mellow it out.

Pro Tip: Taste as you go! Balancing sweet, salty, and tangy flavors is the secret to this dish. Adjust the soy sauce, lime juice, or Sriracha to suit your palate.

Serving Suggestions & Storage Tips

Serve your One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken over a bed of jasmine rice to soak up all that luscious sauce. Roasted veggies like broccoli or asparagus also pair beautifully, adding a crisp contrast. Sprinkle peanuts, spring onions, and fresh cilantro on top for a finishing crunch.

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of coconut milk to bring the sauce back to life. This also makes a great make-ahead meal for the week—quick, cozy, and satisfying every time!

Expert Insight: The Appeal of One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken

One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken brilliantly combines the richness of coconut with zesty lime, creating a balanced flavor profile that enhances lean protein. Using one pan not only simplifies cleanup but also helps meld the ingredients, allowing the chicken to absorb deeper tropical notes for a satisfying, quick-cooked meal.

For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Reddit!

A Quick Memory from My Kitchen

One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken always reminds me of a sunny afternoon with Eleanor, experimenting with tropical flavors that made our small kitchen smell like a seaside escape. It’s a simple dish that brought big smiles to our table, proving that sometimes the easiest recipes create the most lasting memories.

FAQs ( One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken )

Wrapping Up Your One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken Adventure

This One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken is a simple joy—ready in under 30 minutes, with creamy, tangy flavors that cozy right up on your taste buds. You’ll love how it turns weeknight dinner into a little celebration, with minimal fuss and maximum comfort.

Feel free to switch up the heat with milder peppers or add a handful of fresh herbs at the end for a bright twist. Leftovers reheat like a dream, making this an easy staple for busy kitchens and busy hearts. A little pantry magic, a lot of homemade love.

What’s your go-to quick meal that feels like a warm hug? Snap a pic, share your tweaks, and pass this recipe along. Here’s to good food, family stories, and those cozy nights around the table—you’ll wanna make this one again and again.

Print