Coconut Lime Chicken and Rice

The coconut lime chicken and rice dish really comes alive when you take that first bite. The chicken, tender and juicy, is infused with the bright, zesty lime that dances with the smooth richness of the coconut milk. It’s like the perfect balance between tropical refreshment and creamy comfort. As the flavors meld together, there’s a slight sweetness from the coconut that’s not overwhelming but complements the tartness of the lime beautifully.

What I love most about this recipe is how the rice absorbs all those fantastic flavors. Each grain is perfectly coated in the creamy sauce, making it feel like a dish that’s as indulgent as it is comforting. The cilantro on top adds a fresh burst of herbaceous brightness that elevates everything, bringing a pop of color and a lovely, fragrant finish.

I’ve made this on busy weeknights when I’m craving something special without too much fuss, and it’s always a hit. It’s also a wonderful recipe for entertaining—just serve it up in big bowls and watch everyone dig in. The balance of tangy, creamy, and savory will have everyone coming back for seconds, or even thirds!

Key Ingredients in Coconut Lime Chicken and Rice

Each ingredient in this dish plays a key role in creating that unforgettable flavor profile. From the juicy chicken breasts to the zingy lime and smooth coconut milk, every component adds something special. Let’s take a closer look at these ingredients and why they work so wonderfully together.

• Olive oil: A pantry staple, olive oil adds a subtle richness and helps sear the chicken to a beautiful golden brown. It’s the base for sautéing the garlic and ginger, which gives the dish its aromatic foundation.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and lean, the chicken is the star of the dish, soaking up all the flavors from the coconut milk and lime. Its juicy texture creates the perfect contrast to the creamy rice.
• Salt: A simple but essential seasoning, salt brings out the natural flavors of the chicken and rice. It helps balance out the richness of the coconut milk and the acidity of the lime.
• Black pepper: A dash of freshly ground black pepper adds a mild heat and depth of flavor, balancing the sweetness of the coconut milk with a little touch of spice.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds that savory, aromatic essence that gives the dish a warm, inviting smell as it cooks. It’s the perfect complement to the fresh ginger and lime.
• Fresh ginger: Grated ginger offers a gentle kick of heat and a zesty zing that pairs so beautifully with the coconut and lime, adding complexity to the overall flavor.
• Jasmine rice: The perfect rice for this dish, jasmine rice is fragrant and slightly sticky, allowing it to absorb all the coconut-lime sauce. Its delicate, floral notes enhance the tropical vibe.
• Coconut milk: Creamy and rich, coconut milk is the backbone of the sauce, providing a silky texture and a mild sweetness that harmonizes with the lime’s tartness.
• Chicken broth: The chicken broth helps create a flavorful cooking liquid for the rice, adding a savory depth to the coconut-lime sauce without overpowering the dish.
• Lime zest: Zesty lime peel brings a punch of bright, citrusy flavor, adding an extra layer of lime’s refreshing tang to the dish.
• Lime juice: Fresh lime juice gives the dish that needed acidity, cutting through the richness of the coconut milk and lifting the flavors, making everything feel light and vibrant.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of green, both in flavor and color, bringing an herbal freshness that brightens up the dish with every bite.
• Green onions: Chopped green onions lend a mild, oniony crunch that provides a welcome texture contrast to the creamy rice and chicken.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): If you want a little heat, red pepper flakes offer a subtle kick that elevates the dish without overpowering the delicate balance of coconut and lime.

How to Make Coconut Lime Chicken and Rice

Serving Suggestions for Coconut Lime Chicken and Rice

• Tropical Paradise Platter: For a stunning presentation that brings a taste of the tropics to your table, serve the coconut lime chicken and rice in half of a hollowed-out coconut shell. Not only does it add a touch of island flair, but it also enhances the overall dining experience, making every bite feel like a getaway to a sunny beach. Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes on top for an extra layer of texture and flavor that will impress your guests.
• Citrusy Side Salad: Complement the creamy richness of the coconut lime chicken and rice with a simple side salad bursting with citrus flavors. Toss together fresh arugula, segments of juicy orange or grapefruit, and a light vinaigrette made with lime juice, olive oil, and a touch of honey. The bright acidity of the salad will cleanse the palate between bites of the main dish, creating a harmonious balance of tastes that will leave everyone wanting more.
• Island-Inspired Cocktails: To complete the tropical theme of your meal, pair the coconut lime chicken and rice with refreshing island-inspired cocktails. Whip up a batch of coconut mojitos or pineapple margaritas to serve alongside the dish. The cool, minty freshness or the tangy sweetness of the drinks will enhance the vibrant flavors of the meal, creating a dining experience that transports you to a breezy, palm-fringed paradise with each sip and bite. Cheers to a feast that’s as delicious as it is delightful!

How to Store Coconut Lime Chicken and Rice

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers of this tropical delight (although I wouldn’t blame you if you don’t), storing it properly will help keep the flavors just as delicious for your next meal. First things first: let the dish cool down a bit before storing it. This helps prevent condensation from forming, which could make the rice soggy.

To store, simply transfer the chicken and rice into an airtight container. The rice, in particular, loves to soak up every bit of that coconut-lime sauce, so it’s best to keep it all together. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, a quick reheat on the stove or in the microwave will bring everything back to life. Just add a splash of water or chicken broth when reheating to keep the rice nice and creamy.

If you’re looking to store it for longer, you can freeze the coconut lime chicken and rice. Just make sure to portion it out into smaller containers, and wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil before sealing it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to dig in, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat. It may not be quite as fresh as when you first made it, but it’ll still be a comforting meal worth savoring.

Conclusion

And there you have it, dear kitchen adventurers! The coconut lime chicken and rice recipe has taken us on a flavorful journey through tropical paradise, combining creamy coconut, zesty lime, and tender chicken into a dish that’s as comforting as it is refreshing. From the vibrant colors to the fragrant aromas, every element of this recipe is designed to delight your senses and transport you to a sunny beach with each bite.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or planning a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress. The balance of tangy lime, creamy coconut, and aromatic spices creates a harmonious symphony of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

So, go ahead and print out this recipe to keep it handy for your next cooking session. Or better yet, dive right in and whip up this delicious meal today. If you have any questions, feedback, or stories to share about your coconut lime chicken and rice adventure, I’d love to hear them. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with laughter, love, and the delicious aroma of good food!

Print Recipe

Coconut Lime Chicken and Rice

Author: Maria Bennet Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 30 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 50 mins

Calories: 450

Description

Tender chicken marinated in zesty lime and creamy coconut milk, served over fluffy rice. This dish balances bright citrus notes with rich coconut flavor, creating a refreshing and comforting meal that's both tropical and satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

• 1 cup jasmine rice

• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 tablespoon lime zest

• 2 tablespoons lime juice

• ¹⁄₄ cup cilantro, chopped

• ¹⁄₄ cup green onions, chopped

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the four boneless, skinless chicken breasts with one teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of black pepper on both sides.
3. Place the chicken breasts into the heated skillet and cook for about six to seven minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through.
4. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate, covering it loosely with foil to keep warm.
5. In the same skillet, add one tablespoon of minced garlic and one tablespoon of freshly grated ginger, cooking for about one minute until fragrant.
6. Add one cup of jasmine rice to the skillet with the garlic and ginger, stirring it around for about two minutes to lightly toast the rice.
7. Pour in one can of coconut milk and one cup of chicken broth, stirring the ingredients together.
8. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, covering the skillet with a lid.
9. Let the rice simmer for about fifteen to twenty minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
10. While the rice is cooking, zest one lime to collect one tablespoon of lime zest.
11. Once the rice is done cooking, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the lime zest, two tablespoons of lime juice, and a quarter cup of chopped cilantro.
12. Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces and place them on top of the rice mixture.
13. Sprinkle a quarter cup of chopped green onions over the chicken and rice.
14. If desired, add half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
15. Serve the coconut lime chicken and rice immediately, garnishing with extra cilantro or lime wedges if desired.

Note

• Make sure to use a non-stick skillet to prevent the rice from sticking while it simmers.
• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lime juice, garlic, and ginger for 30 minutes before cooking.
• You can substitute cilantro with parsley if you prefer a milder taste.
• If you want a creamier texture, add an extra tablespoon of coconut milk.
• For a bit more heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add fresh chili slices.

Keywords: coconut lime chicken recipe, chicken and rice with coconut milk, easy coconut lime chicken, lime chicken rice bowl, tropical chicken and rice recipe