One-Pan Coconut-Lime Chicken
Imagine stepping into your kitchen, being enveloped by the fragrant embrace of coconut and lime. The aroma wafts through the air like a gentle tropical breeze, beckoning you to indulge in something uniquely delicious. That something is One-Pan Coconut-Lime Chicken—a recipe that brings together tender chicken cutlets nestled in a luscious coconut sauce, kissed by bright lime and aromatic spices. This dish is not only remarkably quick to prepare but is also a delightful experience for the senses, making it ideal for family dinners or impromptu gatherings. Plus, it’s a kid-friendly option that will leave everyone eagerly asking for seconds. With just one pan and minimal cleanup, this dish is as much about convenience as it is about flavor, making it a must-try in your culinary repertoire.
Crave-Worthy Tropical Escape
Have you ever longed for a meal that makes you feel like you’re lounging on a sun-kissed beach, sipping a refreshing drink? One-Pan Coconut-Lime Chicken is that dream come true! Imagine digging into tender chicken served in a creamy coconut bath, brightened by the tang of fresh lime. Doesn’t it make your mouth water just thinking about it? This dish is a reminder of those joyful flavors that warm your heart and bring a smile to your face.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This One-Pan Coconut-Lime Chicken is full of reasons to love it:
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Easy Preparation: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have this dish on the table in no time.
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Healthy and Flavorful: Enjoy the benefits of lean chicken and nutrient-rich ingredients like tomatoes and cilantro while indulging in creamy coconut flavors.
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Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re serving family or friends, this dish is sure to impress! Its vibrant colors and tantalizing aroma make it visually appealing and irresistibly tasty.
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Minimal Ingredients: You don’t need a long grocery list; just grab a few staples to whip up this fantastic meal.
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Versatile: Perfect for weeknights or as a standout dish for special occasions.
Ingredients
To create your sensational One-Pan Coconut-Lime Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 6 chicken cutlets (about 1 1/2 lb. total)
- 1 tsp. sweet paprika
- 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided, plus more
- 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
- 2 Tbsp. coconut oil or vegetable oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, stemmed, seeded, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 4 tsp. finely chopped peeled ginger from 1 2 inch piece
- 2 large, ripe beefsteak tomatoes, seeded, finely chopped (about 2 cups)
- 1 Tbsp. tomato paste
- 1 15 oz. can unsweetened coconut milk
- 1 Tbsp. light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, coarsely chopped
- 1 Tbsp. fresh lime juice
Each ingredient plays a pivotal role in building layers of flavor, ensuring a sumptuous dish that envelops you in its tropical essence with every bite.
Timing
This One-Pan Coconut-Lime Chicken strikes a perfect balance between fast indulgence and tranquil cooking.
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Fast and Indulgent: With prep and cook time totaling under 30 minutes, you can have a luxurious meal ready to savor in no time.
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Slow and Luxurious: While quick, this dish allows you to take in the process—the simmering sounds, the aromatic scents filling the air, and the stunning visual transformation of your ingredients as they meld together in a beautiful unity.
In those moments, you will appreciate both speed and sensory pleasure, creating a delightful meal out of seemingly simple steps.
Step-by-Step
1. Season the Chicken
Begin by seasoning the chicken cutlets thoroughly with the sweet paprika, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This initial step imparts a burst of flavor right into the core of the chicken.
2. Sear the Chicken
In a large, high-sided skillet over medium-high heat, warm 1 tablespoon of oil. Once it’s shimmering, add the seasoned chicken in batches, cooking until it’s golden brown on both sides (about 1 to 2 minutes per side). Once perfectly seared, transfer the chicken to a plate and allow it to rest.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, add the remaining oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion, cooking until it’s just turning tender and golden (approximately 5 minutes). Next, add the jalapeño, garlic, and ginger, stirring until fragrant (about 1 minute more).
4. Add Tomatoes and Broth
Now, stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste, cooking until softened (about 2 minutes). This stage brings the dish to life as the mixture transforms into a vibrant medley bursting with color and flavor.
5. Incorporate the Coconut Milk
Pour in the unsweetened coconut milk and sprinkle in the light brown sugar along with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Bring this luscious mixture to a gentle boil, stirring until the brown sugar dissolves. Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet, ensuring it’s immersed in the heavenly sauce, and boil until the chicken is cooked through (about 1 minute more).
6. Finish with Freshness
Remove the skillet from heat, then fold in the coarsely chopped cilantro and fresh lime juice. This final step is where the dish shines! The fresh herbs and citrus elevate the entire experience, offering a delightful zing that balances the rich coconut creaminess.
Nutritional Information
This One-Pan Coconut-Lime Chicken is a flavorful meal choice and fits well within a balanced diet.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350 calories per serving.
Every rich and creamy bite is culinary indulgence, but with a focus on wholesome ingredients, you can relish this dish without the guilt!
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking to lower sugar or go dairy-free, here are some healthier alternatives to consider:
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Substitute light brown sugar with stevia or coconut sugar for a lower-sugar option.
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For a dairy-free experience, use full-fat coconut milk as it naturally contains no dairy and maintains that creamy richness.
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Opt for skinless chicken to reduce fat content while still enjoying a hearty protein source.
Serving Suggestions
This One-Pan Coconut-Lime Chicken offers versatility for various occasions.
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With Rice or Quinoa: Serve over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or protein-packed quinoa to soak up every drop of that tantalizing sauce.
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Accompanied by Veggies: Pair it with sautéed green beans or a fresh salad to balance out the richness.
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Perfect for Celebrations: Impress guests at holiday dinners or casual get-togethers with this stunning dish.
Common Mistakes
Achieving the perfect One-Pan Coconut-Lime Chicken is straightforward, but avoid these common pitfalls:
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Overbaking the Chicken: Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can dry out. It should be juicy and tender.
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Inconsistent Texture: Take your time to sauté the vegetables properly to avoid any unpleasant crunchiness and ensure a nice blend of flavors.
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Messes in the Kitchen: Keep your workspace tidy by organizing your ingredients and washing as you go to minimize cleanup.
Storing Tips
For leftovers or meal prep, consider the following storing tips:
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Freezing Portions: If you have leftovers, this dish freezes well. Portion it into airtight containers, leaving some space for expansion, and label it with the date.
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Reheating Instructions: To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Tempt to Cook It ASAP
There you have it! One-Pan Coconut-Lime Chicken is your ticket to a quick, delightful, and satisfying meal that bursts with flavor. The interplay of creamy coconut, zesty lime, and tender chicken will leave an indelible mark on your culinary journey. If your taste buds are tingling from the mere thought of this dish, why wait any longer? Grab your ingredients and step into the warm embrace of tropical culinary bliss today!
FAQs
1. Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with shrimp or tofu for a delicious alternative.
2. How spicy is this dish?
With just one jalapeño, it’s mildly spicy, but feel free to adjust the heat level based on your preference!
3. What can I substitute for coconut milk?
Unsweetened almond milk or cashew cream can be used in place of coconut milk, but they will yield a different flavor and texture.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it when ready to serve, adding the chicken just before serving for best results.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free, making this dish suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
Take your culinary creativity to the next level with this captivating One-Pan Coconut-Lime Chicken. Its enticing flavors combined with the ease of preparation are sure to satisfy every craving in your household!
Print
One-Pan Coconut-Lime Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A quick and flavorful One-Pan Coconut-Lime Chicken dish featuring tender chicken cutlets in a creamy coconut sauce with vibrant lime and spices.
Ingredients
- 6 chicken cutlets (about 1 1/2 lb. total)
- 1 tsp. sweet paprika
- 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided, plus more
- 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
- 2 Tbsp. coconut oil or vegetable oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, stemmed, seeded, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 4 tsp. finely chopped peeled ginger
- 2 large beefsteak tomatoes, seeded, finely chopped (about 2 cups)
- 1 Tbsp. tomato paste
- 1 15 oz. can unsweetened coconut milk
- 1 Tbsp. light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, coarsely chopped
- 1 Tbsp. fresh lime juice
Instructions
- Season the chicken cutlets with sweet paprika, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Sear the chicken in a skillet with oil until golden brown, about 1 to 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate to rest.
- Sauté the onion in the same skillet until tender, then add jalapeño, garlic, and ginger, stirring until fragrant.
- Add tomatoes and tomato paste, cooking until softened.
- Incorporate coconut milk and brown sugar, stirring until dissolved. Nestle the chicken back into the skillet.
- Finish with cilantro and lime juice, mixing well before serving.
Notes
Serve over rice or quinoa to absorb the sauce. Pairs well with sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
