Jamaican Coconut Lime Chickpea Skillet

Name: Jamaican Coconut Lime Chickpea Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 can coconut milk; 1 lime, juiced and zested; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Lime wedges

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love cooking dishes that transport me to sunny destinations, and this Jamaican Coconut Lime Chickpea Skillet is one of my favorites! The vibrant flavors of coconut and lime blend perfectly with hearty chickpeas and fresh vegetables. Preparing this dish is not only quick but also incredibly satisfying. In just under 30 minutes, I can whip up a meal that's both nourishing and bursting with tropical flair, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Created by

Riley Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:31:08.254Z

When I first made this Jamaican Coconut Lime Chickpea Skillet, I was amazed by how quickly I could create such a flavorful dish. The combination of coconut milk and lime juice not only adds richness but also a zesty brightness that elevates the chickpeas. I typically serve this with rice or quinoa to soak up all that delicious sauce!

One of my favorite tips is to let the dish simmer for a few extra minutes if you prefer a thicker sauce. This small adjustment really enhances the texture and allows those vibrant flavors to infuse even more. Trust me, you won't want to skip this step!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant flavors of coconut and lime that invigorate your palate
Healthy and hearty chickpeas make it a satisfying dish
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

The Role of Chickpeas

Chickpeas are the star ingredient in this dish, providing a hearty texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy coconut milk. Their nutty flavor complements the vibrant taste of lime and enhances the overall dish. When selecting canned chickpeas, aim for brands that are low in sodium or even unsalted, as this will allow you to control the seasoning more effectively. If you wish to reduce cooking time, you can opt for pre-cooked chickpeas, but ensure you check the texture to avoid mushiness.

Additionally, chickpeas are packed with protein and fiber, making this dish not just flavorful but also nutritionally satisfying. If you're looking to modify the recipe, you can substitute chickpeas with other legumes like black beans or lentils. However, keep in mind that lentils will require less cooking time, so monitor them closely to maintain their firmness.

Perfecting Coconut Milk Integration

Coconut milk is essential for adding a rich, creamy texture to the skillet, elevating the dish to tropical heights. It's important to choose full-fat coconut milk for the best flavor and creaminess. When adding it to the skillet, pour it in slowly while stirring to ensure even distribution throughout the dish. This prevents clumping and helps the coconut flavors meld seamlessly with the spices and vegetables.

If you're aiming for a lighter version, you can use light coconut milk, but be aware that this may slightly alter the creaminess and richness. To enhance the flavor further, consider toasting the coconut milk in the skillet briefly before adding other ingredients; this brings out its sweetness and depth. Just be cautious to prevent it from burning, as burnt coconut can impart a bitter taste.

Serving Suggestions and Accompaniments

This Jamaican Coconut Lime Chickpea Skillet is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving suggestions. For a delightful meal, serve it over fluffy jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the creamy sauce. You can also pair it with quinoa for a nutty flavor or serve alongside warm pita bread for a dipping experience. The dish can stand alone, but adding a protein such as grilled shrimp or chicken can make it even more filling.

To elevate your dish, don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and lime wedges. These not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a burst of fresh flavor that complements the richness of coconut milk. For an extra kick, a sprinkle of chili flakes or sliced jalapeños can introduce a welcome heat that creates a delightful contrast with the creamy base.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 can coconut milk
1 lime, juiced and zested
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

Fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.

Add Peppers and Spices

Stir in the diced red and green bell peppers along with the cumin. Cook for another 5 minutes until the peppers have softened.

Incorporate Chickpeas and Coconut Milk

Add the drained chickpeas and coconut milk to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Finish with Lime

Once simmering, stir in the lime juice and zest. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Serve and Garnish

Serve the dish warm, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Pro Tips

For extra texture, consider adding some chopped spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking. It will add wonderful color and nutrients to the dish!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing any leftovers from this Jamaican Coconut Lime Chickpea Skillet is simple. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great meal prep option for busy weeknights. The flavors will continue to meld as it sits, potentially enhancing the overall taste when reheated.

When reheating, you can do so in either a microwave or a skillet over medium heat. If reheating in a skillet, add a splash of coconut milk or water to maintain moisture, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This prevents the dish from drying out and ensures the flavors remain vibrant. Always taste before serving to see if additional lime juice or salt is needed after reheating.

Variations to Try

While this recipe beautifully showcases the flavors of coconut and lime, don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables. Adding ingredients like zucchini or spinach can introduce more texture and nutrition. Sauté these vegetables alongside the bell peppers to keep their colors bright and flavors fresh. You can also incorporate diced tomatoes for added acidity and sweetness, which can counterbalance the richness of the coconut.

For a protein-packed option, consider adding tofu or tempeh, marinated in lime juice and spices beforehand to enhance their flavor. Cook these separately until golden, then mix them in during the final simmer step. This not only adds variety but also makes it a heartier dish, perfect for vegetarian or vegan diets.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, you can use cooked fresh chickpeas, just ensure they are tender before adding them to the skillet.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are plant-based, making this a delicious vegan option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.