Creamy Coconut Milk-Braised Chicken with Harissa Recipe

Name: Coconut Milk-Braised Chicken with Harissa
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: North African
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup full-fat coconut milk; 2 tbsp harissa paste (adjust to taste); 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; Juice of 1 lime; Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Published: August 29, 2025

by Yumi Lee

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It’s that moment when you step into the kitchen, and the aroma of spices wafts through the air, teasing your senses. Imagine a dish so rich and creamy that it could charm a cranky cat off a windowsill. Spicy Southern Chicken Casserole Yes, that’s right! We’re diving into Coconut Milk-Braised Chicken with Harissa, a dish that transforms an ordinary dinner into a culinary fiesta.

Picture this: tender chicken bathing in a luscious coconut milk sauce, seasoned with fiery harissa that brings both warmth and personality to your plate. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a hug in a bowl. Creamy Chicken Legs Recipe Whether you’re celebrating Taco Tuesday or just trying to impress your friends at dinner parties, this recipe has got you covered. Chipotle Chicken Recipe.

[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This easy Coconut Milk-Braised Chicken with Harissa takes less than 30 minutes to prepare. The flavor profile is an irresistible blend of creamy and spicy sensations. Its stunning visual appeal will have your dinner guests asking for seconds. Perfect for weeknight dinners but fancy enough for special occasions. [/info_box]

Nothing beats the look on my sister’s face when she first tasted this dish; her eyes were as wide as saucers, and I think I might have even seen her drool a little!

Essential Ingredients

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

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: I recommend thighs for their juicy texture and rich flavor; they stay moist during cooking.
Coconut Milk: Choose full-fat coconut milk for creaminess that elevates the dish to heavenly heights.
Harissa Paste: A spicy North African chili paste; adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance.
Fresh Ginger: Grate fresh ginger for its zesty aroma; it adds warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
Garlic Cloves: Use fresh cloves for a pungent kick; they caramelize beautifully in this recipe. Mini Mushroom Quiche.
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt levels while adding depth to the sauce.
Onion: A medium onion finely chopped adds sweetness when sautéed until translucent.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens up the entire dish—don’t skip it!
Fresh Cilantro (optional): Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for an extra burst of freshness and color.

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

Let’s Make it together

Sauté Those Aromatics!: Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until they become golden brown and fragrant.

Add Garlic and Ginger!: Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté these aromatic pals until they release their wonderful scents—about 1 minute should do!

Add Chicken!: Toss in the boneless chicken thighs, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Brown them nicely on each side until they develop a delightful golden crust—around 5-7 minutes.

Create the Sauce!: Pour in coconut milk, chicken broth, and harissa paste into the skillet. Stir well to combine all those delicious flavors while basking in their delightful aromas.

Simmer Away!: Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Allow everything to simmer gently for about 20 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Finish It Off!: Remove from heat and drizzle fresh lime juice over the top. Serve hot garnished with cilantro if desired—the colors will pop like confetti!

And there you have it! Your Coconut Milk-Braised Chicken with Harissa is ready to be devoured. Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful creation bursting with flavor! For more inspiration, check out this Cozy Tahini Miso Ramen recipe.

[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Coconut milk adds creaminess and a subtle sweetness, balancing the heat from harissa. Use fresh herbs to lift flavors and brighten the dish. This recipe is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in with family. [/info_box]

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the chicken to lock in flavor, then simmer in coconut milk and harissa for tender perfection.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or tofu, and add veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrition. For more inspiration, check out this Savory Shrimp Chicken Sausage Gumbo recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] For best results, sear your chicken until golden brown before adding liquid. Keep an eye on the heat; too high can curdle the coconut milk. Always taste before serving; adjust seasoning as needed. [/info_box]

Cooking this Coconut Milk-Braised Chicken with Harissa brings back fond memories of family dinners where laughter filled the air, and everyone fought over seconds.

FAQ

What can I substitute for harissa?

Try sriracha or chili paste if you don’t have harissa on hand.

Can I use light coconut milk?

Yes, light coconut milk works but may result in a less creamy texture.

How spicy is this dish?

The spiciness depends on the amount of harissa used; adjust to suit your taste!