There’s something undeniably magical about the aroma of Coconut Milk-Braised Chicken with Harissa wafting through your kitchen. Imagine tender, juicy chicken slowly simmering in a fragrant coconut milk bath, infused with the fiery kick of harissa. chicken legs with creamy sauce Each bite bursts with flavor, as the creamy richness melds perfectly with the smoky spice, creating a symphony on your taste buds. This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience that transforms any ordinary meal into an extraordinary feast.

I still remember the first time I made this dish for my friends during a casual dinner night. The moment they tasted it, their eyes widened in disbelief as they savored the bold flavors. We ended up laughing and reminiscing about our culinary adventures while devouring every last morsel. baked ranch chicken recipe Perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at a gathering, this Coconut Milk-Braised Chicken with Harissa is bound to become your new go-to recipe.

Sharing this recipe always brings smiles and happy bellies around my dinner table.

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Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: Thighs remain juicier than breasts in this braising method, making them ideal for flavor absorption. smoked boneless chicken thighs.

• Coconut Milk: Use full-fat coconut milk for a creamier texture and richer flavor; it’s truly the star of this dish.

• Harissa Paste: This North African chili paste adds depth and warmth; adjust based on your preferred spice level.

• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves to enhance the dish’s aroma and overall flavor profile.

• Onion: A sweet onion works wonders here; sauté until translucent for optimal sweetness.

• Chicken Broth: Using low-sodium broth lets you control salt levels while adding extra moisture to the dish.

• Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens up the flavors and balances the richness of coconut milk.

• Fresh Cilantro: Garnish with chopped cilantro for freshness and an added burst of color when serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Start by prepping your chicken thighs: Pat them dry with paper towels before seasoning generously with salt and pepper. This step is crucial for locking in flavor during cooking.

Next comes the sautéing: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in diced onions and minced garlic until they turn golden brown and release their sweet fragrance.

Now it’s time to add some spice: Stir in harissa paste along with a splash of chicken broth. Cook for another minute until everything is well combined and aromatic.

Add your star ingredient: Pour in coconut milk along with any remaining chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and watch as those creamy textures start to blend into each other beautifully. For more inspiration, check out this cheesy mushroom chicken alfredo recipe.

Introduce your chicken: Nestle the seasoned chicken thighs into the pot. Ensure they’re submerged in that glorious coconut-harissa sauce so they can absorb all those amazing flavors.

Cover and cook: Reduce heat to low, cover your pot, and let it simmer gently for about 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is tender enough to shred with a fork.

Finish off with freshness: Once cooked through, squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and sprinkle chopped cilantro before serving to elevate those delicious flavors even further.

Serve your Coconut Milk-Braised Chicken with Harissa over rice or alongside crusty bread to soak up every drop of that luscious sauce. Enjoy! For more inspiration, check out this sticky honey chicken recipe recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in those juicy flavors, then add the coconut milk and harissa. Let it simmer gently for tender, flavorful chicken.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out harissa for your favorite hot sauce or add veggies like bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain creaminess.

Cooking this dish reminds me of the first time I served it at a family gathering; everyone loved it, and I felt like a culinary rockstar!

FAQ

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?

Absolutely! Boneless thighs cook faster and remain tender in this recipe.

What can I serve with this dish?

Serve it with rice or flatbreads to soak up that delicious sauce.

How spicy is this Coconut Milk-Braised Chicken with Harissa?

spicy chicken spaghetti casserole.

The spiciness depends on the amount of harissa you use—adjust to your taste!

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Coconut Milk-Braised Chicken with Harissa

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• Author: Hellen
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of Coconut Milk-Braised Chicken with Harissa. This dish features succulent chicken thighs simmered in a creamy coconut milk sauce, enhanced by the spicy warmth of harissa. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, each bite delivers a delightful fusion of taste and aroma. Easy to prepare and adaptable to your spice preference, this recipe will surely become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
• 2 tbsp harissa paste (adjust for spice level)
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• Juice of 1 lime
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

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Instructions

1. Pat dry the chicken thighs and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil; sauté diced onion and minced garlic until golden brown.
3. Stir in harissa paste and a splash of chicken broth; cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk and remaining chicken broth; bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Add seasoned chicken thighs to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce.
6. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes until the chicken is tender enough to shred.
7. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: North African

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 560mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 130mg