Coconut Lime Chicken Power Skillet

A bright, zesty skillet dish that’s a one‑pan wonder. High‑protein chicken meets coconut milk, lime, and rainbow veggies for a complete meal. Ready in just 35 minutes—ideal for weeknight dinners.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Servings 4 servings

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (6 oz each)
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1 cup full‑fat coconut milk
• 1 lime (zest and juice)
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 cup cauliflower rice (or cooked brown rice)
• 1 cup sliced bell pepper (mixed colors)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: extra lime wedges, toasted coconut flakes

Instructions

1. 1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne.
2. 2. Heat coconut oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.
3. 3. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown; transfer to a plate.
4. 4. Add minced garlic, ginger, and lime zest to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute.
5. 5. Pour in coconut milk and lime juice; stir to deglaze and bring to a gentle simmer for 2 minutes.
6. 6. Stir in cauliflower rice, sliced bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes; cook until vegetables are tender, about 4–5 minutes.
7. 7. Return the chicken to the skillet; spoon sauce over it and let everything simmer together for 5 minutes to heat through.
8. 8. Fold in chopped cilantro, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. 9. Serve hot, garnishing with lime wedges and toasted coconut flakes if desired.

Chef's Note

For an extra kick, toss in a pinch of cayenne when you add the coconut milk—or drop crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy finish.

Make-Ahead Tips

Cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until steaming.

Substitutions

Use boneless skinless chicken thighs for richer flavor, or swap chicken for firm tofu for a vegetarian version. Replace cauliflower rice with cooked quinoa, brown rice, or pasta for a higher carb option.