Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe
If your usual chicken routine feels a little…uninspired, this Coconut Lime Chicken recipe is the perfect way to switch things up. It’s creamy, bright, citrusy, and comes together with minimal prep- simply toss the ingredients in your crockpot and let the flavors develop.
The best part? It’s balanced, protein-packed, and easy to serve in multiple ways throughout the week.
Why You’ll Love This Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe
This crockpot meal blends tangy lime, creamy coconut milk, and warming spices into a dish that feels both comforting and refreshing. It’s great for busy weeknights, meal prep, or those nights you want something satisfying without standing over the stove. Here’s why you’ll love it:
High in protein: Satisfying and promotes muscle growth
Minimal prep: Less than 10 minutes of hands-on time
Meal prep friendly: Stores well and reheats deliciously
Versatile: Serve it over rice, stuffed into tacos, or alongside roasted veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need
Okay, here’s what you’ll need to make this coconut chicken lime recipe:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – A lean protein source that helps support muscle growth, satiety, and immune health.
Coconut milk – Adds creamy texture and contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a fat source that may offer quick-burning energy and support nutrient absorption.
Limes (zest + juice) – Provide vitamin C, which supports immune health and enhances iron absorption while adding bright, fresh flavor.
Garlic (minced) – Offers immune-boosting properties and antioxidants; garlic compounds also support cardiovascular health.
Honey – Adds natural sweetness.
Ground cumin – Adds warmth and depth; contains antioxidants that may support digestion.
Fresh cilantro (chopped) – Provides vitamins A and K and adds refreshing flavor.
Salt + pepper – Enhances flavor to your liking.
How to Make It
The best part of this recipe? All you have to do is mix everything together in the crockpot and wait!
Place chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker.
In a bowl, whisk together coconut milk, lime zest, lime juice, garlic, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Pour the coconut-lime mixture over the chicken.
Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 2.5–3 hours, until chicken is tender and easily shredded.
How to Serve It
This chicken pairs well with countless sides. Try:
Coconut lime rice (just add lime juice/zest and a splash of coconut milk to rice)
Steamed or roasted vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, green beans)
Sautéed greens like spinach or Swiss chard
Fresh cabbage slaw for crunch and fiber
Bonus idea: Shred the chicken and serve in tacos with avocado and purple cabbage!
Want to learn more about fiber? Check out my blog, What Is Fibermaxxing? A Dietitian’s Take on the Latest Trend
How to Store It
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of coconut milk or broth to maintain moisture.
Substitutions + Variations
Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a richer texture.
Add veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or onions to cook right in the slow cooker.
Make it spicy with crushed red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.
Try fresh basil instead of cilantro for a Thai-inspired twist.
Other Delicious Recipes You’ll Love
High Protein Beef Stroganoff (link)
Coconut Lime Chicken Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2-3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can coconut milk
- Zest and juice of 3 limes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
Place chicken in the crockpot.
Whisk together coconut milk, lime zest and juice, garlic, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Pour mixture over chicken.
Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 2.5–3 hours.
Serve over rice and garnish with cilantro
Notes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. See the blog post above for more substitutions and variations.
