Discover an explosion of flavors with this unique take on peanut lime chicken. This dish—often called chicken with coconut lime peanut sauce—combines the tang of fresh lime, the creaminess of coconut milk, and the warm, nutty allure of peanut butter into one unforgettable meal. Whether you call it delish creamy peanut lime chicken or simply creamy peanut lime chicken, this recipe promises a delightful fusion of tropical and savory notes that will elevate your dinner table.
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Chicken with Coconut Lime Peanut Sauce – Inspired by Asian and Tropical Cuisines
Inspired by the vibrant culinary traditions of Southeast Asia, this dish brings together ingredients that play harmoniously on the palate. The idea for this chicken with coconut lime peanut sauce evolved from a desire to create a meal that balances bright acidity with rich, mellow creaminess. Using coconut milk, lime, and peanuts captures the essence of tropical cuisine while delivering a comforting, hearty flavor profile. It’s an ideal recipe for those who appreciate a delicate balance between zesty and creamy textures in their peanut lime chicken.
Ingredients Overview
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Breast | 1.5 lbs | Cut into bite-size cubes |
| Coconut Oil or Butter | 2 tbsp | For sautéing |
| Diced Onion | 1 medium | |
| Minced Garlic | 3 cloves | |
| Asparagus | 1 bunch | Trimmed and cut into pieces (optional) |
| Fresh Lime Juice | Juice of 2–3 limes | Adjust for extra tang if desired |
| Cayenne Pepper | 1/4 tsp | Use more if you prefer extra heat |
| Red Curry Paste | 1 tbsp | |
| Cinnamon | 1/4 tsp | |
| Stevia or Sugar | 1 tsp | Adjust sweetness to your taste |
| Full-Fat Coconut Milk | 14 oz can | For a creamy texture |
| Fish Sauce | 1 tbsp | |
| Peanut Butter | 1/2 cup | Smooth variety recommended |
| Toasted Sesame Oil | 1 tsp | |
| Soy Sauce | 1 tbsp |
Feel free to use this table as a reference for gathering your ingredients!
How to Prepare Chicken with Coconut Lime Peanut Sauce
Before recreating your chicken with coconut lime peanut sauce, preparation is key. Begin by carefully trimming and cutting the chicken into bite-size pieces. Marinate the chicken with a squeeze of lime juice, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground pepper, allowing it to soak in the citrus essence. This step is crucial as it ensures that each piece of chicken absorbs the tangy flavors before they mingle with the rich, nutty sauce.
The marinade also serves to tenderize the chicken, ensuring that when it’s cooked, it remains juicy and succulent. While marinating, keep in mind that the balance of flavors is vital: the acidity from the lime should complement, not overpower, the natural sweetness of the coconut milk and peanut butter. Letting the chicken rest in the marinade will heighten the overall dish, setting a strong foundation for the final flavor profile.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken with Coconut Lime Peanut Sauce
Presentation plays a significant role in making this dish even more enticing. When serving your creamy peanut lime chicken, consider pairing it with a side that can soak up the luscious sauce. Options like noodles, fragrant jasmine rice, steamed vegetables, or even rice noodles work wonderfully. For an added touch, garnish the dish with chopped fresh cilantro, a few extra lime wedges, and a sprinkling of crushed peanuts to enhance both texture and flavor visually.
A rustic plating style with vibrant colors can highlight the tropical nature of the coconut-lime peanut sauce. Arrange the chicken pieces artistically on a dinner plate, drizzle generously with the creamy sauce, and finish with the garnishes for a presentation that’s as appealing as it is delicious.
Nutritional Benefits of Delish Creamy Peanut Lime Chicken
1. Chicken Breast:
- Lean Protein Source: Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function. It provides the building blocks for enzymes, hormones, and other important molecules.
- Low in Fat: Skinless chicken breast is low in saturated fat, making it a heart-healthy protein option.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Chicken contains important vitamins such as B6 and B12, which are crucial for energy metabolism and red blood cell formation, as well as minerals like phosphorus and selenium that support bone health and immune function.
2. Coconut Milk:
- Healthy Fats: Coconut milk contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can provide a quick source of energy and may support weight management. MCTs are metabolized differently from other fats, potentially aiding in fat loss.
- Vitamins and Minerals: It is rich in manganese, which plays a role in bone health and metabolism, and contains some iron, potassium, and magnesium.
3. Peanut Butter:
- Nutrient-Dense: Peanut butter is a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making it a filling addition that can help keep you satisfied.
- Heart Health: It contains monounsaturated fats, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Peanut butter is high in vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium, contributing to overall health and well-being.
4. Fresh Lime Juice:
- High in Vitamin C: Lime juice is an excellent source of vitamin C, which is essential for immune function, skin health, and antioxidant protection.
- Hydration: The high water content in lime juice can contribute to hydration and support digestion.
5. Garlic and Onion:
- Antioxidant Properties: Both garlic and onion contain antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
- Heart Health: Garlic has been shown to support cardiovascular health by improving blood circulation and lowering blood pressure.
6. Additional Ingredients:
- Cayenne Pepper: Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and promote fat burning.
- Fish Sauce: Provides a source of umami flavor and can contribute to overall mineral intake, including iodine.
- Cinnamon: Offers potential anti-inflammatory benefits and may help regulate blood sugar levels.
Pro Tips for Enhancing the Flavor of Chicken with Coconut Lime Peanut Sauce and Troubleshooting
Flexibility is at the heart of this recipe. For instance, you can experiment with the intensity of flavors by adjusting the amount of lime juice or peanut butter to suit your taste. Some variations include:
- Add a splash of soy sauce or fish sauce for a deeper umami note.
- Incorporate vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas to add color and crunch.
- Using crushed peanuts in place of or in addition to peanut butter to vary the texture of the sauce.
When troubleshooting, keep these points in mind:
- If the sauce appears too runny, a gentle simmer can help thicken it without losing its creaminess.
- If the flavor seems one-dimensional, consider a sprinkle of fresh herbs or an extra squeeze of lime to revive the balance.
These tips ensure that your delish creamy peanut lime chicken not only comes out perfectly every time but also leaves room for creative variations that reflect your culinary style.
Chicken with Coconut-Lime Peanut Sauce recipe
Ingredients
For Chicken
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast cut into bite-size cubes
- 2 tbsp coconut oil or butter for sautéing
- 1 medium diced onion
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 1 bunch of asparagus trimmed and cut into pieces (optional)
For the Sauce:
- Juice of 2–3 fresh limes adjust for extra tang if desired
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper use more for extra heat
- 1 tbsp red curry paste
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp stevia or sugar adjust sweetness to your taste
- 14 oz can of full-fat coconut milk
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1/2 cup peanut butter smooth variety recommended
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients—lime juice, cayenne pepper, red curry paste, cinnamon, stevia (or sugar), coconut milk, fish sauce, peanut butter, toasted sesame oil, and soy sauce. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and uniformly creamy. If the consistency is too thick, thin it out with a small splash of water or additional coconut milk. Set the sauce aside.
- Heat the coconut oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onions become soft and translucent.
- Increase the heat slightly and add the cubed chicken to the skillet. Sauté until the chicken pieces are golden on all sides and nearly cooked through.
- If using, add the asparagus into the skillet. You can lightly cook them for added tenderness or reserve them to be added raw later for a crisp texture.
- Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the prepared coconut lime peanut sauce. Allow the sauce to warm slowly, ensuring it does not boil vigorously so as to maintain its creamy integrity. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra lime juice or a pinch of salt if necessary.
- Serve the dish immediately, spooning generous portions over your choice of jasmine rice, noodles, or even a bed of steamed greens. Garnish with extra lime wedges or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired.
Notes
• The asparagus is optional—feel free to incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas according to your preference.
• This dish is equally wonderful served warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile option for any meal. Enjoy this delicious twist on peanut lime chicken, a perfect blend of zest and creaminess that celebrates the best of Asian-inspired flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does peanut sauce go with?
Peanut sauce pairs well with grilled chicken, noodles, rice, vegetables, spring rolls, and satay. It also works as a dip or salad dressing
Can I prepare the ingredients in advance?
Yes! You can prep the ingredients in advance by chopping the chicken, mixing the marinade, and making the peanut sauce. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days.
How do I store leftovers OF the Chicken with Coconut Lime Peanut Sauce recipe?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of coconut milk if needed
What is the difference between Satay Sauce and peanut sauce?
Satay sauce is a type of peanut sauce, but the key difference is in the flavor and usage. Peanut sauce is a general term for sauces made with peanuts, often used for dipping, drizzling, or as a marinade. Satay sauce, specifically, is a spiced peanut sauce commonly served with grilled skewers (satay), usually containing coconut milk, soy sauce, and spices like turmeric for extra depth.
What flavors go well with peanut sauce?
Peanut sauce pairs well with flavors like lime, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, chili, honey, coconut, cilantro, and sesame. These ingredients enhance its nutty, savory, and slightly sweet taste!
Overall, Chicken with Coconut Lime Peanut Sauce combines protein, healthy fats, and a variety of vitamins and minerals to create a nutritious meal. The balance of flavors and nutrients makes it a satisfying dish that can support a healthy diet while indulging in delightful textures and tastes. Enjoying this dish can contribute positively to your overall health, making it a great choice for any meal.
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