Harissa Butter Chicken: 30-Minute Flavor Sensation

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Harissa Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a burst of North African flavors to your dinner table. This quick recipe, which takes just 30 minutes to prepare, combines tender chicken with a creamy, spicy sauce that is both comforting and satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights, Harissa Butter Chicken showcases the unique taste of harissa, a chili paste that adds depth and warmth to traditional butter chicken. Let’s dive into this incredible recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Harissa Butter Chicken

This Harissa Butter Chicken recipe offers numerous benefits, making it a go-to meal for families and individuals alike. First, it’s a quick Harissa Butter Chicken option, ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for hectic weekdays. Second, the combination of harissa and coconut milk creates a creamy Harissa Butter Chicken that’s irresistible. Third, it’s easily customizable; you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Fourth, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup afterward. Fifth, the use of fresh ingredients ensures a wholesome dinner. Lastly, this dish is gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs. Don’t miss out on this easy Harissa Chicken recipe!

Ingredients for Harissa Butter Chicken

Gather these items:

3 tablespoons Salted butter
1 pound Chicken breasts or thighs
1 medium Yellow onion (chopped)
3 cloves Garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
1 teaspoon Ground cumin
1 teaspoon Chili powder
to taste Salt
to taste Black pepper
1/2 teaspoon Chili flakes (optional)
3 tablespoons Harissa sauce
1 tablespoon Honey
1 can Canned coconut milk
1/2 cup Pomegranate arils
1/4 cup Mixed herbs: mint, cilantro, and scallions (chopped)
1 tablespoon Lemon juice
1 tablespoon Toasted sesame seeds
1/4 cup Crumbled feta cheese
2 cups Steamed rice
2 pieces Naan

How to Make Harissa Butter Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large skillet, melt the salted butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken chunks and chopped onion, cooking until the chicken is golden brown, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, along with salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Cook for about 2 minutes, allowing those spices to become fragrant.
Step 3: Reduce the heat to low and pour in the coconut milk, stirring gently. Bring this sauce to a gentle simmer, cooking for about 5 minutes until it thickens.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix together the pomegranate arils, fresh herbs, lemon juice, and toasted sesame seeds.
Step 5: Spoon the savory chicken over bowls of steaming rice and top generously with the fresh pomegranate mixture. Serve with warm naan.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Harissa Butter Chicken

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor in your dish.
Adjust the amount of harissa sauce to control the spice level.
Serve with naan or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for meal prep.

Best Ways to Serve Harissa Butter Chicken

Pair your Harissa Butter Chicken with a variety of sides to enhance your dining experience. Consider serving it with:

Steamed rice to soak up the rich, creamy sauce.
Warm naan for a delightful texture contrast.
Fresh salad for a refreshing side.

How to Store and Reheat Harissa Butter Chicken

To store your Harissa Butter Chicken, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. This dish is excellent for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy flavorful leftovers throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Harissa Butter Chicken

What is Harissa Butter Chicken?

Harissa Butter Chicken is a flavorful dish that combines traditional butter chicken with the spicy, aromatic flavors of harissa, a North African chili paste. It’s a delicious twist on a classic recipe.

Can I make Harissa Butter Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare Harissa Chicken with Yogurt Sauce ahead of time. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Harissa Butter Chicken?

To avoid mistakes, ensure not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. Also, balance the spices to suit your taste preferences for the perfect spicy Harissa Butter Chicken.

Variations of Harissa Butter Chicken You Can Try

Explore different takes on this recipe with these variations:

One-pot Harissa Butter Chicken: Make it all in one pot for an even easier meal.
Marinated Harissa Butter Chicken Recipe: Marinate the chicken in harissa sauce for extra flavor.
Spicy Harissa Butter Chicken: Add more chili flakes for a fiery kick!