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: 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon coconut oil; Juice of 2 limes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love this Jamaican Coconut Lime Chickpea Skillet! The combination of tender chickpeas, vibrant lime, and rich coconut milk creates an explosion of flavor that transports me straight to the Caribbean with every bite. What I enjoy most about this dish is its simplicity; it’s ready in just 30 minutes and is bursting with fresh, bright flavors. This skillet is perfect for busy weeknights when I crave something healthy yet indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2026-01-14T02:04:12.745Z

When I first made this dish, I was amazed at how quickly it came together and how colorful it looked on the plate. The chickpeas offer a hearty base, while the coconut milk turns the whole skillet into a creamy, dreamy delight. I used fresh lime juice to add that zesty kick, and I love how the flavors developed as the dish cooked.

Another tip I discovered is to allow the skillet to simmer a little longer if you want a thicker sauce. This way, the coconut and lime flavors intensify, making every bite more delicious and enjoyable. I can’t get enough of this vibrant vegan meal!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant flavors of lime and coconut that brighten your meal
Nutritious chickpeas provide a hearty protein boost
Quick and easy preparation makes it perfect for weeknight dinners

      

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Chickpeas

When using canned chickpeas, it's crucial to drain and rinse them well to remove excess sodium and any canning liquid taste. This simple step enhances the overall flavor of your dish. If you’re using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding to the skillet. The texture of freshly cooked chickpeas is creamier, which can elevate the dish's richness.

Keep an eye on the sautéing process; aiming for the onions and bell peppers to become translucent and just starting to caramelize adds depth. If you find the veggies are browning too quickly, lower the heat to medium-low to avoid burning the garlic, which can turn bitter if overcooked.

Balancing the Flavors

The vibrant flavor of lime balances the creaminess of the coconut milk, making the dish lively and refreshing. I recommend tasting and adjusting the lime juice toward the end of cooking. Depending on the ripeness of your limes, you may find you need more or less juice. This simple adjustment allows you to customize the dish to your taste preference as acidity can vary significantly.

For an extra layer of depth, consider adding spices like cumin or a hint of cayenne pepper. These spices can complement the natural sweetness of the coconut milk and the earthy flavor of the chickpeas, giving a Caribbean flair to the dish. A touch of grated ginger could also enhance the freshness, adding a zing that brightens every bite.

Ingredients

Fresh lime juice
Cilantro for garnish

Main Ingredients

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup coconut milk
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon coconut oil
Juice of 2 limes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Enjoy your meal with a side of rice or quinoa for a complete dinner!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a quick and delicious one-pan meal:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced red bell pepper, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Add the Chickpeas and Coconut Milk

Add the drained chickpeas and pour in the coconut milk. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Season and Simmer

Squeeze the juice of 2 limes into the skillet, then season with salt and pepper. Allow the skillet to cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Serve and Garnish

Once cooked, remove from heat and serve warm. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or even warm naan.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this dish with your favorite vegetables or add a dash of spice for some heat!

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Jamaican Coconut Lime Chickpea Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat. Adding a splash of coconut milk can help regain the original creamy texture and prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly without sticking.

If you prefer to make this dish ahead of time, consider cooking the chickpeas and sautéing the vegetables, but leave out the coconut milk and lime juice until you’re ready to serve. This way, you can retain the freshness of the flavors and the dish won't become overly soft when heated again.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful presentation and even more flavor, serve your Jamaican Coconut Lime Chickpea Skillet over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. The grains will soak up the rich coconut sauce beautifully, making each bite satisfying. Additionally, a sprinkle of fresh lime zest on top enhances the citrus aroma and adds a touch of brightness.

You can also pair this dish with toasted crusty bread or serve it alongside a simple green salad for contrast. Adding slices of avocado on the side can offer a creamy texture that complements the dish without overpowering its vibrant flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but be sure to cook them until tender before adding to the skillet.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are gluten-free.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made in advance and reheated. The flavors may even deepen over time!

→ How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add some chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper during cooking for extra heat.