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Close-up of creamy coconut lime chicken thighs topped with chopped peanuts, scallions, and cilantro in a rich orange sauce

One Pan Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe with Creamy Sauce


  • Author: Chef Elon
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Creamy, zesty, and made in just one pan – this Coconut Lime Chicken is bursting with tropical flavor and ready in 35 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.


Ingredients

Scale

4 chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)

1 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 small onion, finely diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 red chili, finely chopped (optional)

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp ground coriander

400ml coconut milk (1 can, full-fat preferred)

Zest and juice of 2 limes

1 tbsp fish sauce (or soy sauce for a milder version)

1 tbsp sugar (or honey)

Fresh coriander (cilantro) and lime wedges to serve


Instructions

1. Season chicken with salt and pepper.

2. Heat oil in a large pan; sear chicken on both sides until golden. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same pan, cook onion until soft, then add garlic, chili, cumin, and coriander.

4. Stir in coconut milk, lime zest and juice, fish sauce, and sugar. Simmer briefly.

5. Return chicken to the pan. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce thickened.

6. Garnish with coriander and serve with rice or noodles.

Notes

Best made with full-fat coconut milk for creaminess.

Can substitute chicken breasts but reduce cooking time.

Adjust chili and fish sauce to taste.

Dish can be made ahead and reheated.

Serve with jasmine rice, rice noodles, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Keeps in fridge for up to 3 days; suitable for meal prep.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Chicken Recipes
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Tropical

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1
  • Calories: 460
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 34g
  • Saturated Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 0