If you are on the hunt for a refreshing, flavorful, and easy-to-make summer dish, look no further than coconut lime grilled chicken! This dish marries tropical flavors of coconut and lime with the smoky essence of the grill, creating a meal that is not only delicious but also wildly impressive.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or simply craving a taste of summer, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Why You’ll Love Coconut Lime Grilled Chicken
1. Bursting with Flavor: Coconut lime grilled chicken is a symphony of flavors in every bite. The tangy lime, creamy coconut, and savory chicken come together to create a taste sensation that is both exciting and comforting.
2. Easy to Prepare: Despite its gourmet taste, coconut lime grilled chicken is easy to prepare. The marinade is quickly whisked together, and the chicken can be left to soak up the flavors while you go about your day.
3. Versatile: This dish is not just tasty, it’s also versatile. It pairs well with a variety of sides, making it the perfect main course for any meal.
Timing
- Preparation Time: 40 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
For the best coconut lime grilled chicken, you will need:
- 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 tablespoons of coconut oil
- Juice and zest of 2-3 limes
- 1/4 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons of fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
- 1 clove garlic
- Small bundle of fresh cilantro
- Small bundle of fresh mint
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Homemade Coconut Lime Grilled Chicken
Ste 1- Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the coconut oil, lime juice, and zest, coconut milk, fish sauce, brown sugar, and minced garlic. Mix well.
Step 2- Prep the Chicken: Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring it’s well coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally for 2-8 hours.
Step 3- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until fully cooked.
Step 4- Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle with fresh cilantro and mint. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Tips for Making the Best Coconut Lime Grilled Chicken
Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh limes, high-quality coconut milk, and fresh herbs can make a big difference in the flavor of your dish.
Marinate for Longer: If possible, marinate the chicken for several hours or overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooking can make the chicken dry. Monitor it closely and remove it from the heat as soon as it’s done.
Let it Rest: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a juicier chicken.
Serve with a Side: This dish pairs wonderfully with coconut rice or a fresh salad.
Nutritional Facts
Amount Per serving
- Calories: 330 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
What to Serve with Coconut Lime Grilled Chicken
Coconut lime grilled chicken pairs beautifully with a range of sides. Some options include coconut rice, grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or even a tropical fruit salad.
How to Store and Reheat Coconut Lime Grilled Chicken
- Store: Leftover coconut lime grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Be sure to allow it to cool completely before freezing.
- Reheat: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator if frozen, then heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Conclusion
Coconut lime grilled chicken is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for summer. With its tropical flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of summer any time of the year!
FAQs
1- Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as they might cook faster than thighs.
2- Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight will infuse it with more flavor.
3- Can I cook the chicken in an oven instead of a grill?
Yes, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes or until it’s cooked through.
4- Can I use light coconut milk instead of full-fat?
Yes, you can use light coconut milk, but the sauce will be less creamy.
5- Can I substitute the fish sauce?
Yes, you can substitute the fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari for a similar salty flavor.