Coconut Lime Chicken with Rice Recipe
This Coconut Lime Chicken with Rice is a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy coconut milk, and zesty lime for a refreshing meal. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
The recipe is simple and requires minimal ingredients, making it easy to prepare while delivering delicious results.
Flavor Profile of Coconut Lime Chicken
The Coconut Lime Chicken offers a delightful fusion of flavors that transport you to a tropical paradise. The creamy coconut milk forms a rich base, while the zesty lime juice adds a refreshing brightness to the dish.
This combination creates a balance that is both savory and tangy, making each bite a burst of flavor. The addition of garlic and ginger enhances the overall taste, providing depth and warmth to the dish.
Preparation Steps for Success
Preparing Coconut Lime Chicken is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced cooks. Start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of coconut milk, lime juice, and spices. This step is crucial as it infuses the chicken with flavor and ensures tenderness.
Once marinated, cooking the chicken in a skillet allows for a beautiful golden crust to form. The reserved marinade then transforms into a luscious sauce that ties the entire dish together.
Serving Suggestions
To serve, place a generous scoop of fluffy white rice on each plate, creating a soft bed for the chicken. Drizzle the creamy coconut lime sauce over the chicken and rice, ensuring every component is coated in that delightful sauce.
For a pop of color and freshness, garnish with chopped cilantro. Lime wedges on the side offer an extra zing, allowing diners to customize their flavor experience.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish not only satisfies the palate but also provides a balanced meal. Each serving contains a good amount of protein from the chicken, along with healthy fats from the coconut milk.
The dish is relatively low in calories, making it a great option for those looking to enjoy a hearty meal without the guilt. Pairing it with rice ensures a wholesome intake of carbohydrates, perfect for energy.
Creating the Right Atmosphere
Setting the scene for enjoying Coconut Lime Chicken can enhance the overall experience. A rustic wooden table complements the tropical theme of the dish, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Consider adding some tropical elements, such as fresh fruits or palm leaves, to the table setting. This not only elevates the presentation but also immerses your guests in a delightful dining experience.
Variations and Customizations
While the classic Coconut Lime Chicken is a hit, there are several ways to customize the dish. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding sliced chili peppers to the marinade can introduce a spicy kick.
Vegetarians can substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas, allowing everyone to enjoy the vibrant flavors of this dish. Experimenting with different herbs, such as basil or mint, can also provide a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
Easy Coconut Lime Chicken with Rice
This dish features chicken cooked in a rich coconut sauce with lime juice and zest, served over fluffy rice. The recipe takes about 45 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger minced
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cooked rice
- Chopped cilantro for garnish optional
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine coconut milk, lime juice, lime zest, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Remove chicken from marinade (reserve the marinade) and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the reserved marinade and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Serve: Place cooked rice on plates, top with chicken, and drizzle with the coconut lime sauce. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
