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Harissa Butter Chicken

A quick and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken pieces in a spicy, creamy harissa butter sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean, North African
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp harissa paste Adjust according to spice preference
  • 2 tbsp butter Unsalted recommended
  • 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free option
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish
  • Optional: lemon wedges for serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pan over medium heat, add the butter until melted.
  2. Season your chicken pieces with salt and pepper and sauté them in the pan for 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Cooking
  1. Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, push it to one side of the pan and add in the harissa paste. Stir it in for about 1 minute to release its rich flavors.
  2. Pour in the heavy cream, mixing it well with the harissa and chicken. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Serving
  1. Finish off by garnishing with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Notes

For optimal flavor, feel free to experiment with the quantity of harissa paste—whether you want a mild kick or a fiery blast, the choice is yours! When serving, balance the heat with a squeeze of lemon. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.