Chicken and Harissa Pasta: A Flavorful Fusion

Introduction

Are you tired of the same old pasta recipes and looking for something that packs a punch? Chicken and Harissa Pasta might just be the culinary adventure you need. This dish combines tender chicken with the spicy, aromatic flavors of Harissa, a North African chili paste, all brought together with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a meal that promises to tantalize your taste buds and become a favorite in your household.

1. Marinating the Chicken:
   • Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly for a balanced flavor.
   • Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinating it overnight in the refrigerator will enhance the flavors even more.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
   • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
   • Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken breasts.
   • Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and golden brown.
   • Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

Making the Harissa Sauce

Harissa sauce is the heart of this dish, infusing it with a robust, spicy flavor.

1. Understanding Harissa:
   • Harissa is a North African chili paste made from roasted red peppers, garlic, and a variety of spices. It’s known for its rich, smoky, and slightly spicy flavor.
2. Preparing the Sauce:
   • In the same skillet used for the chicken, add a tablespoon of olive oil.
   • Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
   • Add the Harissa paste and tomato paste to the skillet, stirring to combine.
   • Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
   • Let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
   • For a creamier sauce, stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 2-3 minutes.

Cooking the Pasta

Choosing the right pasta and cooking it perfectly is crucial for this dish.

1. Choosing the Right Pasta:
   • Penne, fusilli, or rigatoni are excellent choices for this recipe. Their shapes hold the sauce well, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
2. Cooking Tips:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
   • Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. This starchy water can be used to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

Combining Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together for a harmonious and delicious meal.

1. Mixing Chicken, Pasta, and Harissa Sauce:
   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Harissa sauce.
   • Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
   • If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
2. Adding the Chicken:
   • Add the sliced chicken to the skillet, gently tossing to combine.
   • Let the dish cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is heated through.

Serving the Dish

Presentation is key to making this dish even more appealing.

1. Plating the Pasta:
   • Serve the Chicken and Harissa Pasta in individual bowls or on a large serving platter.
2. Garnishing:
   • Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness.
   • If desired, add grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Conclusion

Chicken and Harissa Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of tender chicken, spicy Harissa, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to impress and become a regular in your kitchen rotation.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought Harissa paste?
   • Absolutely! Store-bought Harissa paste works well for this recipe. Just make sure to taste it first as the heat levels can vary.
2. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
   • You can substitute with half-and-half or even omit it entirely if you prefer a lighter sauce.
3. Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
   • Yes, you can replace the chicken with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant for a delicious vegetarian option.
4. How can I store leftovers?
   • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
5. What can I serve with Chicken and Harissa Pasta?
   • This dish pairs well with a simple green salad and crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.

     Chicken and Harissa Pasta

     

     Are you tired of the same old pasta recipes and looking for something that packs a punch? Chicken and Harissa Pasta might just be the culinary adventure you need. This dish combines tender chicken with the spicy, aromatic flavors of Harissa, a North African chili paste, all brought together with perfectly cooked pasta. It's a meal that promises to tantalize your taste buds and become a favorite in your household.

     • 200 g chicken thighs chopped into bite sized pieces
     • 1 x onion finely chopped
     • 150 ml Double cream
     • 1 handful cherry tomatoes halved about 75g
     • 2 handfuls fresh spinach
     • 200 g fusilli pasta
     • 1 x Tbsp Harissa Paste
     • 1 x Tbsp Smoked Paprika
     • 1/2 tsp salt & pepper
     • Parmesan or cheddar cheese

     1. Put your pasta on to boil and cook as per packet instructions.
     2. Add some olive oil to a large frying pan and fry your onion until soft.
     3. Add your chicken to the onions and cook until golden brown.
     4. Add the harissa paste and paprika to the chicken and cook for a couple of minutes more until fragrant.
     5. Add the cherry tomatoes, double cream, salt and pepper and simmer gently until the chicken is cooked and the sauce has thickened a little.
     6. Before draining your pasta add the spinach to the pasta pan and once the spinach has wilted drain the water off.
     7. Add the pasta to the chicken and sauce, mix thoroughly sprinkle with Parmesan or a handful of grated cheddar cheese and serve.

     Dinner

     Chicken and Harissa Pasta