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Coconut Milk Braised Chicken with Harissa and Lime

Coconut Milk Braised Chicken with Harissa and Lime
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Coconut Milk Braised Chicken with Harissa and Lime is a vibrant and comforting dish combining tender chicken thighs slow-braised in creamy coconut milk, smoky harissa paste, and zesty lime juice. This recipe offers a perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and rich flavors, making it an exotic yet approachable meal ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

Liquids

  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for dairy-free option)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

Spices and Condiments

  • 2 tablespoons harissa paste (adjust to taste)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Aromatics and Vegetables

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

Oils and Herbs

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Gather and finely chop garlic, ginger, and onion. Pat the chicken thighs dry then season generously with salt and pepper to ensure a flavorful sear.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken thighs on both sides until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. This locks in juices and builds a rich flavor base.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: Remove chicken and set aside. Lower heat slightly, then add the chopped onions, garlic, and ginger to the same pan. Cook for about 5 minutes until soft and fragrant, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add Harissa and Liquids: Stir in the harissa paste and cook for 1 minute to release its flavors. Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, scraping the pan to lift browned bits. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  5. Braise the Chicken: Return the chicken thighs to the pan, nestling them into the liquid. Cover and simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes until chicken is tender, cooked through, and the sauce has thickened slightly.
  6. Finish with Lime: Stir in fresh lime juice to balance the creamy and spicy flavors with a bright, zesty note.

Notes

  • Use bone-in chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness during braising.
  • Don’t skip browning the chicken; it adds depth and a caramelized flavor to the sauce.
  • Simmer gently on low heat to keep chicken tender and prevent coconut milk from curdling.
  • Adjust the amount of harissa paste gradually as its heat level varies by brand.
  • Let the dish rest off heat for a few minutes before serving for better flavor melding.

Nutrition

Keywords: coconut milk chicken, harissa chicken, braised chicken, spicy chicken, lime chicken, gluten free, North African cuisine

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/coconut-milk-braised-chicken-with-harissa-and-lime/