The tantalizing aroma of coconut milk braised chicken with Harissa and Lime wafts through the air, inviting you to dive into a bowl of creamy goodness. Imagine tender chicken slowly simmering in rich coconut milk, lovingly infused with spicy harissa and zesty lime, creating a dish that dances on your taste buds like a tropical fiesta. basil chicken cutlets recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What can I use instead of harissa?
- Can I use bone-in chicken?
- How do I know when my chicken is done?
- 📖 Recipe Card
As I recall the first time I made this culinary masterpiece, my friends were skeptical. They hesitated, eyeing the vibrant colors and exotic spices. But one bite later, they were hooked! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself after a long day, this dish transforms an ordinary meal into an unforgettable experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Coconut Milk-Braised Chicken with Harissa and Lime is a breeze to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights
- The unique flavor combination will leave your taste buds singing, while the dish’s vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes
- Enjoy it over rice or with crusty bread for versatile serving options
Every time I serve this dish, my family can’t help but smile and ask for seconds; it truly brings everyone together.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: They stay juicy and absorb flavors beautifully—trust me, thighs are where it’s at! pesto chicken and avocado wraps.
- Coconut Milk: Choose full-fat coconut milk for a rich and creamy texture that elevates the sauce. For more inspiration, check out this Coconut Cookies Recipe recipe.
- Harissa Paste: This North African chili paste adds depth; look for one that’s robust yet balanced in spice.
- Fresh Lime Juice: Use fresh limes for zestiness that brightens up the entire dish—bottled juice just won’t cut it.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is essential; it adds a savory punch that complements the other flavors perfectly. garlic herb roasted vegetables.
- Onion: A sweet onion adds depth; sauté until translucent for maximum flavor.
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth is best to control the saltiness; it enhances the overall taste without overpowering.
- Fresh Cilantro (for garnish): This herb adds freshness and visual appeal at the end—don’t skip it!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your onion and mincing garlic cloves. Measure out your coconut milk, harissa paste, chicken broth, and lime juice so everything is ready to go.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté chopped onions until they turn translucent and sweet-smelling, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant.
Add Chicken Thighs: Toss in boneless chicken thighs. Sear them on both sides until golden brown—this should take about 6-8 minutes total. Don’t worry if they aren’t cooked through yet!
Pour in Coconut Milk & Broth: Carefully add coconut milk and chicken broth to the pot. Stir in harissa paste and lime juice until well combined; watch as those flavors meld together into something magical!
Simmer Away!: Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cover and let cook on low heat for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
Finish with Freshness!: Once done cooking, remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve immediately over rice or alongside warm crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.
Enjoy every scoop of this flavorful dish that truly feels like a warm hug on your taste buds!
You Must Know
- This Coconut Milk-Braised Chicken with Harissa and Lime is more than just a dish; it’s an experience!
- The creamy coconut milk melds perfectly with the spicy harissa, creating a flavor explosion
- Plus, your kitchen will smell divine while you cook!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken to lock in flavors, then add the coconut milk and spices for even cooking. This sequence ensures juicy chicken that absorbs all the goodness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap harissa for curry paste or add vegetables like bell peppers for extra crunch. These alterations let you personalize the dish based on your pantry.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to keep the chicken tender and prevent drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- This Coconut Milk-Braised Chicken offers a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with rice or bread
- Use fresh lime juice right before serving to elevate flavors
- Don’t rush—allow enough simmer time for all ingredients to meld perfectly!
Cooking this dish reminds me of a dinner party where my friends couldn’t stop raving about the flavors. It was such a hit that I almost had to hide the leftovers!
FAQ
What can I use instead of harissa?
You can substitute harissa with curry paste or chili powder for different heat levels.
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, bone-in chicken adds flavor but may require longer cooking time.
How do I know when my chicken is done?
Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) or juices run clear.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Coconut Milk-Braised Chicken with Harissa and Lime
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Coconut Milk-Braised Chicken with Harissa and Lime is a vibrant dish that combines tender chicken thighs simmered in rich coconut milk, spicy harissa, and zesty lime. This flavorful meal transforms any dinner into a tropical fiesta, making it perfect for both casual nights at home and special gatherings with friends. With its creamy texture and aromatic spices, every bite is a celebration of taste that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 3 tbsp harissa paste
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
- In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté onions until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant.
- Add chicken thighs and sear on both sides until golden brown (6-8 minutes).
- Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth; stir in harissa paste and lime juice.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook on low for 25-30 minutes until chicken is tender.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving over rice or with crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: North African
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
