Coconut Lime Chicken and Vegetables
A quick, fresh Coconut Lime Chicken and Vegetables recipe bursting with tropical flavor and vibrant, healthy ingredients. This dish balances zesty lime, creamy coconut milk, and tender chicken with crisp, colorful vegetables for a delicious and wholesome meal perfect for any occasion.
- Author: Kaeli
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Fusion/Island-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Protein
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into bite-sized pieces
Vegetables
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange), chopped
- 1 cup snap peas or snow peas, trimmed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
Liquids & Seasonings
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Juice and zest of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for finishing)
- Prepare the Ingredients: Slice chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Chop the bell peppers and snap peas. Mince garlic and ginger, zest and juice the lime. Having all ingredients prepped ensures smooth cooking.
- Sauté Aromatics and Chicken: Heat olive or coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute. Add chicken pieces and sauté until cooked through and lightly golden, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in chopped bell peppers and snap peas. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp, maintaining their freshness and crunch.
- Pour Coconut Lime Sauce: Add coconut milk, lime juice, and zest to the skillet. Stir well to coat chicken and vegetables, then simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes to let flavors meld into a creamy, tangy sauce.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs and Season: Remove skillet from heat. Sprinkle chopped cilantro, season with salt and pepper to taste, and give a final stir. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh lime juice and zest for the best flavor.
- Do not overcook vegetables to keep their color, taste, and nutrients.
- Let cooked chicken rest a few minutes before slicing for juicier texture.
- Toast garlic and ginger gently to avoid bitterness.
- Adjust sauce consistency with water or extra coconut milk if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: coconut lime chicken, chicken recipe, healthy chicken, tropical chicken, quick dinner, one-pan meal, gluten free, easy chicken recipes