Creamy Coconut Lime Chicken Skillet

There’s nothing quite like a one-pan dinner that feels vibrant, comforting, and a tad bit luxurious at the same time. This Whole30 coconut lime chicken skillet delivers all that and more: it’s a creamy, zesty, and paleo chicken dish that’s bursting with fresh lime, coconut, cilantro, and just a hint of spice. And the best part? You’ll only need about 30 minutes and a single skillet. Perfect for busy weeknights, laid-back family dinners, or meal prep for healthy lunches, this and paleo chicken dish is destined to become a new favorite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients truly shine in this recipe, creating layers of flavor, color, and crave-worthy texture. Each ingredient plays a vital role—from the tender chicken to the swoon-worthy coconut lime sauce—so let’s get you set up for skillet success!

• Olive oil: Use this for a robust flavor and to get a golden sear on your chicken cutlets.
• Chicken breasts: Slicing them lengthwise ensures a quicker cook and more surface area for all that delicious sauce.
• Yellow onion: Diced onion forms the savory backbone and adds irresistible sweetness as it caramelizes.
• Minced garlic: Garlic brings aromatic depth and a subtle kick to every bite.
• Minced ginger: Fresh ginger adds warmth and a bit of zing, perfectly complementing lime and coconut.
• Chicken broth: Just a splash lifts the sauce and helps deglaze the pan for extra flavor.
• Full-fat coconut cream: The star ingredient for that rich, creamy, dairy-free sauce that makes this and paleo chicken absolutely irresistible.
• Lime juice: This zesty punch ties together all the flavors with a bright finish. Fresh is best!
• Dried basil: Basil layers in a gentle herbal note without overpowering the main flavors.
• Coriander: Adds a subtle, citrusy complexity that harmonizes with both chicken and lime.
• Chopped cilantro: No and paleo chicken skillet is complete without this pop of color and fresh, peppery flavor.
• Salt and pepper: Always a classic for seasoning and balancing the dish.
• Optional: Red pepper flakes: Turn up the heat if you like a little spice or save some for garnish for a pretty finish.

How to Make and paleo chicken

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Start by slicing your chicken breasts lengthwise, creating four thinner cutlets. This helps them cook quicker and more evenly. Season both sides a bit generously with salt and pepper. Meanwhile, let that big skillet (preferably cast iron) preheat over medium-high with olive oil. A hot pan means gloriously golden chicken.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Pop those seasoned chicken cutlets into your hot skillet. Don’t touch them for about 4 minutes—this patience is rewarded with a gorgeous, browned crust. Flip and repeat for the other side. Once both sides are golden and the chicken is almost cooked through, transfer them onto a plate. They’ll finish cooking in the sauce soon!

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Now, into that same skillet (no need to clean—those browned bits are flavor gold!), add diced onion, minced garlic, and fresh ginger. If you see any dry spots, sneak in a bit more oil. Sauté for around 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything smells amazing and the onions are softened and golden.

Step 4: Deglaze and Build the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, using a spatula to lovingly scrape up all those savory browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This is the secret to deep, soulful flavor. Next, stir in the coconut cream, lime juice, dried basil, and coriander. Give it a good stir to bring all the skillet magic together and keep scraping up any caramelized spots.

Step 5: Simmer and Thicken

Let everything come to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium. This is where the sauce thickens and the flavors mingle—it’ll take about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks, and bask in the glorious aroma wafting through your kitchen.

Step 6: Finish with Herbs, Spice, and Chicken

Stir in the chopped cilantro and, if you like things spicy, those red pepper flakes. Next, nestle the seared chicken cutlets right back into the bubbling sauce. Cover the skillet and let it all simmer together for another 5 minutes. This gets the chicken perfectly juicy and infused with sauce.

Step 7: Taste and Serve

Before you dish up your and paleo chicken, taste the sauce for final seasoning. Add a pinch more salt or a squirt of lime juice if you want things brighter. Serve your skillet creation right away, topped with extra cilantro, lime wedges, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little drama.

How to Serve and paleo chicken

Garnishes

Garnishing really brings your and paleo chicken skillet to life! A shower of fresh cilantro and a scattering of red pepper flakes looks lovely and adds freshness and heat. Don’t forget some lime wedges on the side—they’re perfect for squeezing a final splash of citrusy goodness over every plate.

Side Dishes

This dish plays nicely with so many sides. For a grain-free and paleo combo, pair with cauliflower rice or sautéed greens. Roasted veggies (like broccoli or green beans) tucked beside the creamy chicken are always a hit. If grain-free isn’t needed, serve alongside fluffy basmati rice for an ultra-comforting meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try piling your and paleo chicken onto large lettuce leaves for a fun hand-held option (perfect for parties or packed lunches!). Or present it family-style—set the skillet right in the middle of the table so everyone can scoop up their own perfect bite. For a fancy twist, spoon the saucy chicken over spiralized zucchini noodles or crispy cabbage slaw for a light but luscious dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover and paleo chicken keeps beautifully! Simply transfer any extras (including the sauce) to an airtight container. They’ll last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen as they chill, making leftovers even more satisfying the next day.

Freezing

Thinking ahead? Go ahead and freeze your coconut lime chicken skillet! Cool completely, then portion into airtight containers or freezer bags. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep that sauce silky and the chicken moist.

Reheating

Reheating is easy as pie! Warm your and paleo chicken gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, or use the microwave in short bursts. If the sauce thickens up too much, just add a splash of chicken broth or coconut milk to bring it back to its creamy, dreamy self.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are fantastic for this recipe—they’re juicy and flavorful. Just cut larger thighs in half if needed, and cook as directed until they’re cooked through.

Does this and paleo chicken taste very coconutty?

It’s creamy and gently coconutty, but not overpowering. The lime, ginger, and fresh herbs all balance out the coconut cream, resulting in a nuanced flavor the whole family will love—even those who aren’t big coconut fans.

Is this recipe spicy?

The base recipe is mild, but you can dial up the heat to your liking by adding more red pepper flakes. Or leave them out for a kid-friendly, gentle flavor.

Can I meal prep and paleo chicken for the week?

Yes! This skillet holds up beautifully in the fridge for several days. Package it into single servings with your favorite side and you’ll have easy, crave-worthy lunches ready to grab and go.

What can I substitute for coconut cream?

Full-fat coconut milk can work in a pinch, although the sauce will be slightly thinner. Try to avoid light coconut milk for best texture. If you’re not paleo or dairy-free, you can experiment with cashew cream or a swirl of heavy cream!

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving bold, bright flavors and a fuss-free cooking experience, this and paleo chicken skillet recipe will be your new weeknight hero. It’s satisfying, wholesome, and delightfully simple—just a single pan and a handful of vibrant ingredients. Give it a try and see why this dish always disappears fast in my kitchen!

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