Dairy Free Coconut Lime Chicken was one of the first recipes I reinvented after going gluten- and dairy-free. I’m Matteo Romano, a Tuscan-born chef now based in the U.S., and this is one of those dishes that helped me rediscover comfort in cooking after my health took a turn. Back in culinary school, I was trained to rely on butter and cream, but after realizing I was gluten intolerant and needed to go dairy-free, I had to start over.
At first, it felt like giving up flavor. But this dish changed everything. Juicy chicken simmered in creamy coconut milk, brightened with fresh lime juice, simple, nourishing, and vibrant. It brings a sense of warmth to any weeknight, especially as cooler evenings roll in and you’re craving something satisfying but not too heavy.
Whether you’re dairy-free, gluten-free, or just in the mood for something different, this chicken recipe delivers comfort without compromise. It’s become a reader favorite for its easy prep and cozy tropical flavor.
Looking for more cozy gluten-free dinners? Try this Gluten-Free Chicken Piccata with Capers or my go-to Lemon Herb Chicken Skillet, both made with simple ingredients and lots of love.
Dairy Free Coconut Lime Chicken
Equipment
- large skillet
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp freshly grated ginger
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 0.5 tsp ground black pepper
- 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
- 13.5 oz full-fat coconut milk
- 2 limes, juiced + 1 tsp zest
- 1 tsp maple syrup or honey
- fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and ginger. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in coconut milk, lime juice, lime zest, and maple syrup. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the chicken back into the skillet. Spoon sauce over the top, cover, and simmer on low for 12–15 minutes until cooked through and tender.
- Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve over rice, cauliflower rice, or quinoa.
Notes
Nutrition
Ingredients for Dairy Free Coconut Lime Chicken
This dish is packed with flavor but comes together with everyday pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- Juice of 2 limes + 1 teaspoon zest
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Note: Full-fat coconut milk gives the best creamy texture. Light versions may separate during cooking.
If you’re into easy, naturally gluten-free recipes, this Quick Chicken Stir Fry and One-Pot Green Chili Chicken Rice might also hit the spot.
How to Make Dairy Free Coconut Lime Chicken (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Sear the chicken
Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté aromatics
In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add a splash more oil if needed. Cook the onion for 2–3 minutes until soft, then stir in garlic and ginger. Cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the sauce
Pour in the coconut milk, lime juice, lime zest, and maple syrup. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer.
Step 4: Return chicken and simmer
Add the chicken back to the pan, spoon some sauce over the top, cover, and simmer on low for 12–15 minutes until cooked through and tender.
Step 5: Garnish and serve
Remove from heat, top with fresh cilantro or parsley, and serve over rice, cauliflower rice, or quinoa.
This is also a great companion to my Gluten-Free Chicken Tenders when you’re cooking for kids or picky eaters.
Tips for Perfect Coconut Lime Chicken Every Time
- Use chicken thighs for maximum flavor and juiciness, they’re harder to overcook than breasts.
- Don’t boil the sauce once the coconut milk is added. Keep the heat low to avoid curdling.
- Add extra lime at the end for a brighter finish if you love citrus-forward dishes.
- Batch it for meal prep: this recipe keeps well and actually tastes better the next day.
Pair it with simple sides like my No-Knead Gluten-Free Bread or Quick Gluten-Free Soups for a complete, nourishing dinner.
Variations to Try
Make it gluten-free (and still dairy-free!)
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as written. Just double-check the labels on your coconut milk and spices to avoid hidden gluten.
Add vegetables
Sauté red bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini with the onion for a one-pan veggie-packed version.
Make it spicy
Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat. Or stir in a spoonful of red curry paste for a Thai-inspired twist.
Serve it differently
Instead of rice, try this chicken over gluten-free noodles or tucked into lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
For more crowd-pleasers, my Gluten-Free Casseroles offer hearty, dairy-free comfort food ideas perfect for weeknights.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
Freeze for up to 2 months. Let cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Reheating:
Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if needed to loosen the sauce. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.
This makes a great meal prep recipe alongside Chicken Meal Prep Bowls if you’re planning ahead.
Final Thoughts
Dairy Free Coconut Lime Chicken is creamy, tangy, and packed with bold flavor, without any dairy or gluten. Whether you’re navigating food intolerances or just love fresh, comforting meals, this dish is a beautiful way to bring people together around the table.
Cooking should never feel like a compromise. With recipes like this, you’re not just eating well, you’re enjoying the process, one bite at a time.