Jamaican Coconut Lime Chickpea Skillet

Name: Jamaican Coconut Lime Chickpea Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can of coconut milk; Juice and zest of 2 limes; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Cooked brown rice, for serving

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making this Jamaican Coconut Lime Chickpea Skillet! The bold flavors of coconut and lime come together so beautifully with the chickpeas, creating a dish that's both hearty and refreshing. It’s quick to prepare, so it's perfect for busy weeknight dinners or a laid-back weekend meal. Plus, serving it over brown rice adds a healthy twist that makes this dish even more satisfying. Trust me; you will want to keep this recipe in regular rotation!

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:10:30.382Z

When I first tried making this Jamaican Coconut Lime Chickpea Skillet, I was surprised by how simple yet flavorful it turned out. The combination of chickpeas with coconut milk creates a creamy base, while the lime adds a zesty punch that brightens the entire dish. I often experiment with additional spices or vegetables, and I've found that a sprinkle of fresh cilantro right before serving adds an extra layer of freshness.

One of the most surprising aspects of this recipe is how quickly it comes together. In just 35 minutes, you can have a fully nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. I suggest pairing it with some avocado slices or a side of plantains for a truly authentic experience. You won’t believe how much flavor can be packed into one skillet!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut milk combined with zesty lime for a refreshing taste
Nutritious chickpeas packed with protein and fiber
Quick, easy preparation for any weeknight meal

      

The Role of Chickpeas

Chickpeas are the star ingredient of this dish, providing a hearty protein source that makes it both filling and nutritious. Their firm texture holds up well during cooking, allowing them to soak up the rich flavors of coconut and lime. If you desire an additional layer of flavor, consider roasting the chickpeas before adding them to the skillet. This extra step can yield a nutty taste and delightful crunch.

Additionally, chickpeas are incredibly versatile; if you don’t have canned chickpeas, you can use dried ones. Just remember to soak them overnight and cook until tender before incorporating them into the skillet. This may take a little longer, but the depth of flavor they develop is worth the wait.

Coconut Milk Magic

Coconut milk is key to achieving that creamy texture in this dish. It not only contributes a subtle sweetness but helps balance the zesty lime, creating a vibrant and refreshing experience. Opt for full-fat coconut milk for the richest flavor; however, low-fat versions can be used if you’re aiming for a lighter dish, though they will yield a thinner texture.

When adding coconut milk, consider stirring it in slowly to prevent it from splattering. A gentle simmer after adding allows the flavors to meld harmoniously—watch for small bubbles forming around the edges of the skillet to indicate it’s the right time to proceed with the next steps.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This Jamaican Coconut Lime Chickpea Skillet stores beautifully, making it an excellent meal prep option. You can refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to restore its creamy consistency. Just keep an eye on it to avoid scorching, stirring occasionally.

For serving, pair this dish with traditional brown rice for added fiber, or mix it up with quinoa for a protein boost. You can also enhance it with toppings like avocado slices, sliced green onions, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra kick. Feel free to get creative with the garnishes to suit your taste!

Ingredients

To make this delightful meal, gather the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can of coconut milk
Juice and zest of 2 limes
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Cooked brown rice, for serving

Make sure to rinse your chickpeas well to remove any excess starch, which helps prevent them from becoming mushy during cooking.

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until they soften—about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add the Chickpeas

Add the drained chickpeas to the skillet, followed by the cumin and coriander. Mix well, ensuring the chickpeas are coated in the spices.

Pour in the Coconut Milk

Gently pour in the coconut milk and lime juice. Stir everything together, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Finish and Serve

Once the dish thickens slightly, stir in lime zest, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve over cooked brown rice and garnish with fresh cilantro.

This skillet dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños along with the onions for a spicy twist. If you're looking to make this dish vegan, it is already vegan-compliant, ensuring a wholesome and compassionate meal.

Troubleshooting Cooking Issues

If you find that the skillet is too watery after simmering, this could be due to using too much coconut milk or not allowing enough time for it to thicken. Simply increase the heat slightly and let it cook uncovered for a few extra minutes, stirring frequently until some of the moisture evaporates and the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

On the other hand, if the dish is too thick, you can add a bit of vegetable broth or more coconut milk to loosen it. This will also enhance the flavor, keeping the dish well-balanced while maintaining its rich creaminess.

Dietary Variations

For those following a gluten-free diet, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but do double-check your coconut milk and any garnishes you use. If you're looking for a vegan version, rest assured this recipe is plant-based, so it fits perfectly within a vegan meal plan.

If someone has legume allergies, you can substitute the chickpeas with diced tofu or tempeh, which will still absorb the flavors of coconut and lime but provide a different texture. Simply sauté the tofu or tempeh until golden before adding spices and other ingredients to ensure they’re infused with flavor.

Flavor Enhancements

For an added depth of flavor, try incorporating a splash of soy sauce or tamari into the skillet. This little twist could provide umami notes that complement the coconut and lime beautifully. If you’re seeking more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to amp up the spice level.

Fresh herbs play a massive role in brightening up the dish. If you can get your hands on fresh lime leaves, add them while simmering for an unexpected burst of aroma. Alternatively, you can top the finished dish with fresh basil or mint for a refreshing twist that contrasts nicely with the creamy elements.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook the dried chickpeas beforehand. Make sure they're tender before adding them to the skillet.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ What can I substitute for coconut milk?

You can use almond or soy milk, but the creaminess of coconut milk is hard to replicate. You might want to add a tablespoon of olive oil to mimic the richness.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Adding chili flakes, diced jalapeños, or even a splash of hot sauce can increase the heat level to your liking.