One-Pan Coconut Lime Chicken and Rice Recipe

This One-Pan Coconut Lime Chicken and Rice is the very definition of weeknight magic—a complete, flavor-packed meal that bakes together in one skillet. Juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken thighs nestle into fluffy coconut rice, all infused with zesty lime and the subtle heat of fresh chilies. You’ll want to make this on repeat!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Part of the magic of One-Pan Coconut Lime Chicken and Rice is that you don’t need anything fancy—just a handful of aromatic, powerhouse ingredients that work together beautifully. Let’s break down what makes each component essential to creating deep flavor, lush texture, and that dazzling pop of color.

• Chicken Thighs (skin on): The extra richness of skin-on thighs keeps the meat juicy, while the crisp golden skin adds irresistible texture and flavor.
• Kosher Salt & Ground Black Pepper: This classic duo is the secret to coaxing out the natural flavor of the chicken and tying the whole dish together.
• Lime (zested & juiced): The zest infuses the chicken with bright citrus aroma, and the juice enlivens the rice with a tangy lift.
• Avocado Oil: Perfect for searing the chicken thanks to its high smoke point and neutral taste.
• Shallot: Milder and subtler than onion, shallots bring a gentle sweetness to the rice foundation.
• Garlic & Ginger: This dynamic flavor duo adds warm spice and depth—essential for balancing out the coconut and lime.
• Thai Chilies or Serrano Peppers: Thinly sliced for a little kick; you control the heat!
• Jasmine Rice (rinsed): Fragrant and fluffy, jasmine rice soaks up all those luxurious flavors as it bakes.
• Green Onions: Stirred into the rice for fresh, savory notes and a burst of color.
• Chicken Broth: Deepens the flavor of the rice while keeping it moist and tender.
• Full-Fat Coconut Milk: Lends creaminess and a subtle tropical sweetness that brings the whole dish together.
• Fish Sauce: Just a splash adds funky, savory depth and rounds out all the other seasonings.
• Cilantro: A final, fragrant garnish that’s completely optional—but highly recommended!

Variations

I adore how flexible One-Pan Coconut Lime Chicken and Rice can be—don’t hesitate to tweak the recipe depending on what you have on hand, your spice threshold, or dietary needs. Customizing to your kitchen and your taste means there’s always a new spin to love!

• Make it dairy-free and gluten-free: The recipe is naturally both, but be sure to check labels on broth and fish sauce if you need certified versions.
• Swap the protein: Boneless chicken thighs, chicken breasts, or even shrimp work—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Play with the veggies: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or baby spinach with the rice for extra color and a veggie boost.
• Turn up—or down—the heat: Omit the chilies for a milder version, or try bird’s eye chilies if you love serious spice.
• Rice alternatives: Try basmati instead of jasmine, or substitute cauliflower rice for a lower-carb take (just keep an eye on moisture levels).

How to Make One-Pan Coconut Lime Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken thighs as dry as possible with a paper towel—this is what helps the skin get deliciously crispy. Sprinkle them on all sides with kosher salt, black pepper, and that wonderfully aromatic lime zest, then set aside while you continue prepping. This extra step lets the seasoning really soak in.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

Heat your chosen oven-safe skillet (a cast iron works wonders) over medium heat and add the avocado oil. Once it’s shimmering, lay the chicken thighs in—skin side down. Resist the urge to move them! Leave undisturbed for 6–7 minutes until a deep, golden crust forms. Transfer the chicken to a plate; it’ll finish cooking with the rice shortly.

Step 3: Build the Fragrant Rice Base

Reduce the heat to medium-low. In the same pan (hello flavor!), add the shallot, garlic, ginger, and chilies. Sauté for about a minute—just until everything is softened and super aromatic. Stir in the rinsed jasmine rice and green onions, and keep cooking for 2–3 more minutes until the rice starts to toast. This step infuses the grains with big flavor from the start.

Step 4: Add the Liquids and Combine

Pour in the lime juice, chicken broth, coconut milk, and fish sauce, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. You’ll see the rice and aromatics swirling in creamy, fragrant liquid—this is what’s going to make the finished dish so lush and flavorful.

Step 5: Bake Everything Until Perfect

Nestle the seared chicken thighs (skin side up) right into the rice, cover the skillet, and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 25 minutes. Then, uncover and continue baking for another 10 minutes so the chicken skin crisps up again and the rice finishes cooking through.

Step 6: Fluff, Finish, and Enjoy

Remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle with chopped cilantro for a burst of green. Use a fork to gently fluff the rice around the chicken, making sure none of the rich flavor stays stuck to the bottom. Serve One-Pan Coconut Lime Chicken and Rice straight from the pan for peak coziness and easy plating!

How to Serve One-Pan Coconut Lime Chicken and Rice

Garnishes

I love sprinkling a generous shower of chopped cilantro and green onions over the pan right before serving. Toasted coconut, extra lime wedges, or sliced fresh chilies also add a beautiful finishing touch—each bite feels bright and special!

Side Dishes

While One-Pan Coconut Lime Chicken and Rice is a complete meal on its own, it’s fantastic with a snappy cucumber salad, quick-pickled carrots, or a pile of steamed broccoli or green beans. These sides keep dinner light, super fresh, and full of texture.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the chicken and rice straight from the skillet family-style for an easy, cozy vibe. For dinner parties, scoop a portion of rice into a shallow bowl, top with a chicken thigh, and let your guests garnish with herbs and extra lime wedges as they wish!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let leftovers cool, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually intensify as they sit, making next-day lunches even more irresistible.

Freezing

Both the chicken and rice freeze well! Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. For optimal quality, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or coconut milk to prevent the rice from drying out, then warm gently in a covered pan over low heat or microwave in short bursts. The chicken will stay moist, and the rice refreshes beautifully.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a vibrant, stress-free dinner that feels like a mini escape to the tropics, One-Pan Coconut Lime Chicken and Rice is your answer. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite go-to meal!

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