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Coconut Lime Chicken and Rice

Juicy chicken breasts marinated in coconut milk, fresh lime, garlic, and warm spices, pan-seared to golden perfection and served over creamy coconut basmati rice with lime zest and fresh cilantro.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Caribbean, Thai
Calories: 522

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup full-fat coconut milk for marinade
  • 0.25 cup fresh lime juice about 2 limes
  • 2 limes zested
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 0.5 tsp salt for marinade
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • fresh cilantro chopped, for garnish
  • 1 cup basmati rice rinsed until water runs clear
  • 1.5 cups water for rice
  • 0.5 cup full-fat coconut milk for rice
  • 0.5 tsp salt for rice
  • 1 lime zested, for rice
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice for rice
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped, for rice

Equipment

  • Large skillet or cast-iron pan
  • Medium saucepan with lid
  • Resealable bag or shallow dish for marinating
  • Meat thermometer
  • Fork for fluffing rice

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, whisk together coconut milk, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, soy sauce, honey, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
  2. Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. Do not exceed 4 hours.
  3. Rinse basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water, coconut milk, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and stir in lime zest, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and discard the marinade. Cook chicken breasts for 5 to 7 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. Reduce heat to medium if browning too quickly.
  5. Plate the coconut lime rice and top with cooked chicken. Garnish with extra lime zest, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges. Serve hot.

Notes

Do not marinate longer than 4 hours as the lime juice can break down the chicken texture. Store chicken and rice separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat chicken in a skillet with a splash of water or broth. Full-fat coconut milk is strongly recommended for best flavor and creaminess.