How to Make the Perfect Coconut Lime Chicken Thighs
Tropical · Easy · 50 min · 4 servings
These succulent chicken thighs are marinated in creamy coconut milk and zesty lime juice for a tropical paleo meal. They are baked until perfectly golden and make a satisfying grain free dairy free dinner any night of the week.
Why this recipe works
This Coconut Lime Chicken Thighs recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 50 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 380 calories with 34g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 8 pieces bone in skin on chicken thighs
- 1 cup full fat coconut milk
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 2 tsp lime zest
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Whisk together coconut milk lime juice lime zest garlic and cumin in a bowl. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat completely then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F and line a baking dish with parchment paper. Remove chicken from the marinade and shake off excess before placing in the dish.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy and the internal temperature reads 165 degrees F. Baste once halfway through with pan juices.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh lime wedges and chopped cilantro before serving for a bright and flavorful finish.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- bone in chicken thighs → boneless chicken thighs for faster cooking
- full fat coconut milk → coconut cream for a richer marinade
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not marinating long enough which results in less flavorful and less tender chicken
- Using light coconut milk which does not provide enough fat for proper browning
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 380 calories, 34g protein, 5g carbs, 25g fat, 1g fiber.
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