Go Back

Coconut Lime Chicken and Rice

This Coconut Lime Chicken and Rice is a creamy, flavorful one pot chicken and rice meal made with tender chicken, coconut milk, fluffy rice, and fresh lime. A comforting and easy dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken
  • 2 lbs chicken thighs or chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Rice Base
  • 1½ cups long-grain rice
  • 1 can 13.5 oz coconut milk
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Optional Garnish
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedges
  • Green onions
  • Toasted coconut flakes

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or pan.
  4. Sear chicken 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
  5. In the same pan, sauté onion until soft. Add garlic and ginger and cook 1 minute.
  6. Stir in rice and cook for 1 minute.
  7. Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth.
  8. Add lime juice, lime zest, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
  9. Place chicken on top of rice mixture.
  10. Cover tightly and bake for 35–40 minutes until rice is tender and chicken reaches 165°F.
  11. Rest 5 minutes before serving.
  12. Garnish with cilantro and lime wedges.

Notes

  • Full-fat coconut milk gives the creamiest texture.
  • Chicken thighs stay juicier, but breasts also work well.
  • Similar to baked chicken and rice recipes but with tropical flavor.
  • Store leftovers in fridge up to 4 days.
  • Freeze up to 2 months.